Canadian Cheese Soup
The Best Canadian cheese soup packed with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and smooth creamy broth. A hearty comfort food soup that is full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients
½ lb bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 celery ribs, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons (¼ cup) butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken stock
4 cups milk
1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup pale or golden lager (preferably Canadian)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped green onion or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until lightly browned and crispy, about 5 minutes.
Add the onion, celery, garlic, and butter to the pot. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook while stirring constantly until it turns light golden and develops a nutty aroma, about 4 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the milk and continue simmering for 15 minutes, making sure the soup does not boil after the milk is added.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until mostly smooth while keeping some texture.
Stir in the lager beer, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot and garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
Notes
Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and richness.
Add the cheese off the heat to prevent curdling.
Do not allow the soup to boil after adding milk to keep the texture smooth.
If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer slightly longer before adding the cheese.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Find it online: http://elladishes.com/canadian-cheese-soup/
