Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

Looking for a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for chilly days? This Beer Cheese Soup combines the best of smoky bacon, smooth cheddar cheese, and a delightful blend of seasonings to create a comforting dish. With a hearty, velvety texture, this beer-infused soup is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner, an indulgent appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Easy to make and customizable to your taste preferences, this homemade soup is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

Soup:

• 4-6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Hot Sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 5 tablespoons flour
• 12 oz. beer (see notes)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups half and half (half milk, half cream)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (see notes)
• 2 green onions, diced

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Prep Work:

1. In a 3.5-quart soup pot, cook the bacon over low heat until crispy. (Cut the bacon in half for even cooking.)
2. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then chop into small pieces. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
3. Wipe away any dark spots from the pot while retaining the flavorful bacon remnants.

Make the Soup:

1. Heat the reserved bacon drippings and butter in the same pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom.
2. Add the diced onions and cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until they caramelize and turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the beer in small splashes, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. The mixture will thicken.
6. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly. (For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the onions into the broth, if desired.)
7. Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens.
8. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup cool slightly. Remove the bay leaf.
9. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly over low heat to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
10. Serve the soup garnished with chopped bacon and green onions.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of cheesy goodness and a smooth, velvety texture.
• Flavorful: A delightful blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors.
• Comforting: A hearty, soul-warming dish ideal for chilly days.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to your taste preferences with various beer types and toppings.

Tips

• Cheese Selection: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor and smooth consistency. Sharp cheddar adds a stronger taste, while mild cheddar is more subtle.
• Beer Choice: A medium-bodied beer like lager or ale works well. Avoid overly bitter or dark beers.
• Smooth Texture: Blend the onions into the broth with an immersion blender for a silky finish.
• Prevent Separation: Add the cheese gradually over low heat to keep the soup smooth and creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with smoked paprika for flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce and cayenne pepper to control the heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with gouda, gruyere, or a mix of cheeses.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze beer cheese soup? Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup? If the soup is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the soup with crusty bread, pretzel rolls, or garlic toast.
• Pair with a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with additional garnishes like crumbled crackers, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.

Enjoy this comforting beer cheese soup as a cozy dinner or an indulgent appetizer for gatherings!