This hearty Wisconsin-style cheese soup is a comforting bowl of warmth featuring sharp cheddar, tender carrots, celery, and onions. The rich, velvety broth is thickened with a roux and infused with a subtle kick of paprika and cayenne. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served as a satisfying side dish, this recipe brings rustic, home-style flavor to your table. It&# 226;ÂÂs simple to prepare using pantry staples and offers a perfect balance of savory depth and creamy texture. Ideal for meal prep, leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Wisconsin Cheese Soup
Description
This hearty Wisconsin-style cheese soup is a comforting bowl of warmth featuring sharp cheddar, tender carrots, celery, and onions. The rich, velvety broth is thickened with a roux and infused with a subtle kick of paprika and cayenne. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served as a satisfying side dish, this recipe brings rustic, home-style flavor to your table. It is simple to prepare using pantry staples and offers a perfect balance of savory depth and creamy texture.Ingredients
Directions
-
In a large heavy pot, melt butter or margarine over medium heat.
-
Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, green pepper, mushrooms, and ham (if using).
-
Cook vegetables, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender, about 10 minutes. Do not let them brown.
-
Sprinkle flour and cornstarch over the vegetables; cook, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes to form a roux.
-
Gradually stir in chicken broth and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly.
-
Pour in milk, paprika, cayenne, and dry mustard; stir well to combine.
-
Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
-
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
-
Serve immediately while piping hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 156.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.2g21%
- Saturated Fat 4.1g21%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 246.2mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 9.6g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
- Sugars 4.4g
- Protein 1.3g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate or curdle, resulting in a grainy texture.
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham.
Grating your own block of sharp cheddar cheese yields a much smoother melt compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
This soup yields approximately 2 1/2 quarts. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the consistency becomes too thick.
