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Canadian Cheese Soup

Creamy Canadian Cheese Soup That Warms the Heart

This creamy Canadian Cheese Soup warms the heart with its rich flavor and customizable ingredients, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Canadian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds rich flavor and creates a roux.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Prevents butter from burning.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped for sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for aroma.
  • 1 medium Carrot Diced small to add natural sweetness.
  • 1 stalk Celery Diced small to enhance savoriness.
For Thickening
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour Essential for roux and thickening.
  • 4 cups Chicken broth Or vegetable broth for richness.
  • 2 cups Whole milk Provides desired silky texture.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream Optional for richness.
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese Shredded for best melting results.
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère Optional for depth of flavor.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Boosts flavor with tang.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Optional for richness.
  • to taste Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • to taste Black pepper Enhances all flavors.
  • to taste Cayenne pepper Optional for hint of heat.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 medium Diced potato For heartiness.
  • 1 cup Cooked ham or crispy bacon Optional for richness.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  4. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in milk and heavy cream.
  5. Simmer the soup on low for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Lower the heat and gradually add sharp cheddar cheese and Gruyère, stirring until melted.
  7. Stir in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and season to taste with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or baguette.

Notes

For meal prep, store in an airtight container up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on low heat.