Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of cheesy goodness but short on time? Look no further! This blog post presents two delicious cheddar cheese soup recipes, both utilizing the convenience of canned ingredients while delivering incredible flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or even a satisfying appetizer, these easy recipes are sure to become staples in your homemade cooking repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll find these recipes incredibly straightforward and adaptable to your taste. Let's dive into these healthy meals!
Recipe 1: Classic Creamy Cheddar Soup (using condensed soup)
This recipe uses condensed cream of mushroom soup as a base, making it incredibly quick and simple. It's a perfect example of how easy delicious dishes can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can cheddar cheese soup
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and bring to a simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese soup, ensuring no lumps form.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Recipe 2: Elevated Cheddar Cheese Soup (using diced tomatoes and beans)
This recipe elevates the classic by adding diced tomatoes and beans for a heartier, more nutritious meal. It's a great quick dinner idea packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Croutons or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), cannellini beans, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with croutons or tortilla chips for added crunch.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Boost the flavor: Use a blend of cheddar cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and extra sharp cheddar, for a more intense cheese flavor.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients and texture.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for extra richness.
- Thicken the soup: If your soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and whisk it into the soup while simmering. This helps thicken it nicely.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving, Recipe 1):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
These easy recipes offer delicious and convenient options for satisfying your cheddar cheese soup cravings. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to create your perfect bowl! Remember to always adjust seasonings to your personal preference. Happy cooking!