Name: Canadian Cheese Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 small red bell pepper, diced; ¼ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp ground mustard (optional for depth); Salt and black pepper to taste; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium); 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup half-and-half (or additional milk for a lighter version); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella (adds extra meltiness); ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, enhances flavor); Fresh chives or green onions, chopped; Extra shredded cheese for topping; Croutons or crusty bread for dipping

Description

Warm, comforting, and ultra-creamy, this Canadian Cheese Soup is a beloved classic that brings together the richness of cheddar cheese, fresh vegetables, and a touch of spice. Inspired by traditional recipes from Canadian kitchens, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekends at home.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty starter or a satisfying main dish, this soup delivers bold flavors with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup Base:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
¼ tsp paprika
¼ tsp ground mustard (optional for depth)
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Liquid & Cheese Mixture:

3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
1 cup whole milk
1 cup half-and-half (or additional milk for a lighter version)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella (adds extra meltiness)
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, enhances flavor)

For Garnish & Serving:

Fresh chives or green onions, chopped
Extra shredded cheese for topping
Croutons or crusty bread for dipping

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Stir in the garlic, paprika, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Roux
5. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables.
6. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is well incorporated and slightly golden (this thickens your soup).

Step 3: Add the Liquid
7. Gradually pour in the broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
8. Add the milk and half-and-half, stirring well to combine.
9. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, not a boil.
10. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup begins to thicken.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
11. Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses a handful at a time.
12. Stir until each addition melts fully before adding more.
13. Mix in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.
14. Continue stirring until the soup is velvety and smooth.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
15. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped chives or green onions.
16. Sprinkle extra cheese or add croutons for crunch.
17. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread or warm rolls.

Notes

Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Avoid High Heat After Adding Cheese – Keep the temperature low to prevent curdling or graininess.

Make It Heartier – Add cooked shredded chicken or cooked ground beef for extra protein.

Boost the Veggies – Try adding cauliflower florets, corn, or chopped spinach for variation.

Spice It Up – A pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce adds a kick for those who like it spicy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Canadian