Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

Cheddar cheese soup, in all its creamy, velvety glory, is one of those dishes that instantly brings comfort to the soul. But sometimes, you want to take the classic up a notch-add a little more depth, richness, and complexity to the flavor. Enter condensed cheddar cheese soup. It’s a brilliant shortcut for those who want that beloved cheesy flavor, but without spending hours simmering or stirring. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, lending itself to a multitude of twists and creative variations.

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a hearty bowl of soup on a cold day, this condensed cheddar cheese soup is your go-to solution. It’s rich, indulgent, and undeniably satisfying. Let’s dive into everything you need to know-from ingredients to tips, tricks, and variations.

Here’s a recipe that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, using the convenience of condensed cheddar cheese soup to create something truly delicious. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty.

Ingredients Needed

1 Can (10.5 Oz) Of Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup

This is the backbone of the soup-rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It provides that smooth texture you want in a cheddar cheese soup.
2 Cups Of Chicken Broth

This helps thin out the soup while adding depth. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even beef broth for a bolder flavor.
1 Cup Of Whole Milk

Whole milk gives the soup its creamy consistency, but if you want a lighter version, you can substitute this with 2% milk or a dairy-free option like oat milk.
2 Tbsp Of Butter

The butter adds richness and a silky texture. If you want a more intense buttery flavor, feel free to add a little extra.
1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped

A classic base for many soups, onion brings sweetness and a mild sharpness that balances the richness of the cheese.
1 Clove Of Garlic, Minced

Garlic enhances the flavor, giving a touch of depth and complexity. You can use more if you’re a garlic lover.
1 Cup Of Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

This is where the magic happens-the sharp cheddar will melt perfectly, creating a thick, gooey texture.
1 Tsp Of Dijon Mustard

The mustard adds a subtle tang that helps cut through the richness of the cheese, making the soup more balanced.
Salt And Pepper To Taste

Adjust this based on your preferences, but don’t skimp on the seasoning-salt really helps to bring out the flavors of the cheese.
Optional Garnishes: Croutons, Chopped Chives, Or Bacon Bits

These add texture and a little extra flavor contrast to the creamy soup.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté The Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant.
Add The Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the soup to cook for about 5-7 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
Stir In The Condensed Cheddar Soup

Once the liquid is simmering, stir in the condensed cheddar cheese soup. Make sure it’s fully dissolved, and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This is the key moment where the soup starts to thicken and take on that rich, cheesy consistency.
Melt In The Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has completely melted into the soup. This will create a luxuriously smooth texture.
Add Mustard, Salt, And Pepper

Stir in the Dijon mustard, along with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serve And Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with garnishes like croutons, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of chopped chives for an added burst of flavor and texture.

Ingredient Insights

Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup

The condensed variety is key to this recipe. It’s more concentrated than regular cheese soup, which gives your dish a thick, rich texture right from the start. You don’t have to worry about it being watery or too thin. Plus, it packs a punch in terms of flavor, making the entire process faster and easier.
Chicken Broth Vs. Vegetable Broth

The chicken broth is my go-to because it adds that deep, savory note that complements the cheese. However, vegetable broth is an excellent alternative for vegetarians or those who prefer a lighter flavor base.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar is the star of this soup. It has a bolder, more tangy flavor compared to mild cheddar, and it melts beautifully to create that dreamy, creamy consistency. Using a high-quality cheddar will make a noticeable difference in the taste.
Dijon Mustard

This might seem like an unusual ingredient, but it’s a game changer. The tangy kick of Dijon mustard balances the richness of the cheese and adds a subtle layer of complexity that makes the soup taste a little more gourmet.

Expert Tips

Texture Control

If you like a thicker soup, you can simmer the soup a little longer after adding the cheddar cheese until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more milk or broth until it’s just right.
Grate The Cheese Yourself

It’s tempting to use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and results in a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.
Make It Spicy

If you’re into spicy flavors, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños. A dash of hot sauce would also do wonders for giving the soup a little kick.
Add Veggies

Sneak in some vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or even carrots for extra nutrition. You can steam or roast them beforehand and stir them into the soup once it’s done, or cook them directly in the broth for a more integrated flavor.

Recipe Variations

Bacon Cheddar Soup

Add crispy bacon bits to the soup, either mixed in or as a garnish. The smokiness of the bacon complements the sharp cheddar, giving the soup a savory depth.
Vegetarian Option

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat-based toppings like bacon. You could even add some roasted vegetables to make the soup heartier.
Beer And Cheddar Soup

For a unique twist, replace part of the broth with a light beer. The beer adds a slight bitterness that contrasts with the creamy richness of the cheese.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Soup

If you like your soups with a bit of heat, finely chop some jalapeños and toss them in with the onions and garlic. You can also sprinkle in a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to turn up the spice level.

Final Words

This condensed cheddar cheese soup is a foolproof recipe that combines the creamy, comforting richness of cheddar with the convenience of condensed soup. It’s a crowd-pleaser, an easy dinner solution, and something that can be customized in so many ways. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or getting creative with variations, it’s sure to satisfy.

Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe