Cheese Soup - South Dakota Style
A creamy, cheesy South Dakota-style soup with tender vegetables and velvety cheese, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine potatoes, water, celery, carrots, onions, parsley flakes, chicken bouillon cube, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Gradually add milk to the flour, mixing well, and then add this mixture to the cooked vegetables.
- Cook until the soup thickens.
- Add Velveeta cheese cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier soup, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have Velveeta, any creamy cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar can work, but ensure it melts well. Adding a pinch of garlic powder enhances flavor. For a heartier version, include cooked bacon or ham. You can also add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty cheese soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Ms. Owens' Potato Casserole for a comforting dinner. Top each bowl with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture. Consider a light dessert like fruit salad to round out the meal, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may cause the cheese to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Soup - South Dakota Style contains roughly 783 calories, with 15g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (199% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2011mg per serving (87% 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 different types of cheese in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack. Just ensure they melt smoothly into the soup. A mix of cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile. However, keep in mind that some cheeses may require additional cream or milk to achieve the desired creaminess.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, simply replace the chicken bouillon cube with a vegetable bouillon cube. Additionally, you can omit any meat additions. The vegetables and cheese will still provide a rich and satisfying flavor. You may also increase the amount of vegetables used for extra nutrition and texture.
Can I freeze this cheese soup for later use?
While it's possible to freeze cheese soup, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently and expect to add a bit of milk to restore creaminess.
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).