Barley Cheese Soup
A hearty and creamy barley cheese soup featuring broccoli, carrots, and green onions, perfect for cozy meals and cheese lovers seeking comforting, nutritious flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli ⓘ
- 1/2 cup quick cooking barley ⓘ
- 1 (14 oz.) can chicken broth ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded carrot ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sliced green onion
- 2 1/2 cups milk ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, cut in cubes and softened ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded American cheese
Instructions
- Combine barley and chicken broth in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Add chopped carrots and sliced green onions to the saucepan.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, flour, dry mustard, and pepper.
- Stir the milk mixture into the saucepan with broth and vegetables, and cook and stir for 1 minute.
- Gradually stir about 1/2 cup of hot soup into the softened cream cheese until well combined.
- Stir the cream cheese mixture back into the soup and cook until blended.
- Add shredded American cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Serve the soup hot, topping with crushed red pepper if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. If you prefer a heartier soup, consider adding diced cooked chicken or turkey, which also pairs well with this dish. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Zesty Italian Chicken Breasts or a light sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, as it can affect the creaminess of the cheeses.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barley Cheese Soup contains roughly 734 calories, with 21g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (143% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1099mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a smooth texture.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. However, it's best to add the cheese just before eating to maintain its texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or parsley for additional flavor. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the depth of flavor in the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).