Creamy Cheesy Vegetable Soup
A creamy, cheesy vegetable soup with tender vegetables and a rich, flavorful broth, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for all veggie lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water with bouillon cubes to a boil.
- Add frozen vegetables and cook until tender.
- In a separate pan, melt butter or margarine.
- Add flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Pour the thickened mixture into the cooked vegetables and cook until the soup thickens.
- Add Cheez Whiz to the soup.
- Season to taste. Optional: add 1 to 2 cups chopped cooked ham for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, try substituting with a similar processed cheese spread or shredded cheese, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water and bouillon for a vegetarian option. This soup is versatile, so feel free to add in leftover cooked chicken or even serve it over Baked Hash Brown Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy cheesy vegetable soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light sandwich or can be enjoyed alone as a comforting bowl on a chilly day. For added protein, consider mixing in chopped cooked ham, or serve alongside Texas Omelette for a satisfying brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Cheesy Vegetable Soup contains roughly 792 calories, with 14g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender before adding to the soup. Fresh vegetables may enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use dairy-free margarine instead of butter. You can also look for vegan cheese alternatives to mix in for that cheesy flavor.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy cheese in place of Cheez Whiz to elevate the flavor profile.
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).