Beer Cheese Soup
Our beer cheese soup is a simple and delicious blend of rich cheddar cheese and bold beer, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. Creamy and satisfying, it's the perfect choice for cozy evenings or casual get-togethers.
Beer cheese soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together the savory goodness of cheese and the bold character of beer. Perfect for any occasion, this comforting recipe is both easy to prepare and made with simple, everyday ingredients. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or hosting a casual gathering, this homemade soup offers a fresh and customizable alternative to store-bought options. Choose your favorite beer—or even a non-alcoholic variety—for a personal touch that elevates the flavor to perfection.
Ingredients for Beer Cheese Soup
Butter adds richness to the soup and forms the base of its flavor.
All-purpose flour acts as a thickener, giving the soup its creamy and smooth texture.
Beer is a key ingredient that provides a distinct flavor. A light beer offers a more subtle taste, while a robust beer gives the soup a stronger, more pronounced flavor. Since the beer's flavor is prominent, choose one you enjoy.
Chicken or vegetable stock serves as the savory base of the soup and helps achieve the desired consistency. Vegetable stock is a great option if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Worcestershire sauce enhances the soup's umami flavor, adding depth and complexity.
Ground mustard brings a touch of tanginess and sharpness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat, giving the soup a little kick.
Cheddar cheese is the star of the dish, delivering a bold and tangy flavor. For a stronger taste, use sharp cheddar. Although pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup's texture. For the best results, grate the cheese yourself.
Directions
Step 1: Make the roux
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until fully combined, cooking for a few minutes to eliminate the raw flour flavor.Step 2: Add the beer, stock and seasonings
Gradually pour in the beer, stirring continuously to create a smooth mixture and prevent lumps. Add the chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for one to two minutes until the soup thickens.
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheese, mixing until it melts completely and the soup is smooth. Garnish as desired and serve immediately. For an extra touch, serve the soup in bread bowls and top with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.Beer Cheese Soup Variations:
Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give the soup a bold and spicy kick.
To make it vegetarian, substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this comforting dish.
Enhance the smoky flavor by stirring cooked and crumbled bacon directly into the soup for an extra layer of richness.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the regular beer with your favorite non-alcoholic option to enjoy the same great flavor without the alcohol.
How to Store Beer Cheese Soup
Store leftover beer cheese soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
Can you freeze beer cheese soup?
To freeze beer cheese soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do you reheat beer cheese soup?
Reheat the soup slowly on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
How long does beer cheese soup last?
When stored properly, beer cheese soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days and in the freezer for up to three months.
Can you make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare beer cheese soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
Beer Cheese Soup Tips:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gouda or pepper jack, but we recommend cheddar for its sharp flavor and excellent melting qualities.
Is it possible to make this soup without beer?
You can replace the beer with extra chicken stock, though this will change the flavor profile of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, non-alcoholic beer is the best substitute. It has become increasingly popular and easier to find in recent years.
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