Name: Canadian Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 1½ cups milk (whole or 2%); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (enhances the cheese flavor); ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds depth); ¼ tsp cayenne (for a kick); Crumbled cooked beef or chicken (for added protein); Extra shredded cheese; Chopped chives or green onions; Crusty bread or soft pretzels

Description

Rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavors, this Canadian Cheese Soup is a true cold-weather classic. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, tender vegetables, and a velvety broth, it’s hearty enough for a main course and perfect for dipping crusty bread. Whether you’re warming up after a snowy day or looking for an easy family-friendly meal, this soup delivers bold, satisfying flavor in every spoonful.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup Base:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

1 tsp Dijon mustard (enhances the cheese flavor)
½ tsp smoked paprika (adds depth)
¼ tsp cayenne (for a kick)
Crumbled cooked beef or chicken (for added protein)

For Serving:

Extra shredded cheese
Chopped chives or green onions
Crusty bread or soft pretzels

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Flour
Add diced potatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the veggies evenly.
Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup.
Leave it chunky if you prefer more texture.

Step 5: Add Milk, Cream, and Cheese
Stir in the milk and cream, and let it warm without boiling.
Gradually add shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and any optional flavorings like mustard or paprika.

Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese, green onions, or a drizzle of cream.
Serve with crusty bread, pretzel rolls, or garlic toast.

Notes

Use Good Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor. Always shred your own for better melting.
Don’t Boil After Adding Cheese – High heat can cause the cheese to separate.
Adjust Thickness – Add more broth for a thinner soup, or mash some of the potatoes to thicken.
Add Protein – Stir in shredded cooked chicken or browned beef for a heartier dish.
Make It Spicy – A dash of cayenne or hot sauce adds great depth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Canadian