Empire Cheese Soup
Creamy and hearty, Empire Cheese Soup combines potatoes, vegetables, and melted Velveeta for a comforting meal perfect for cold days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook parsley flakes, water, chicken bouillon, diced potatoes, diced celery, diced carrots, and chopped onion until the vegetables are soft.
- Mix flour with milk and add to the cooked mixture, then cook until the soup thickens.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese and 1/4 cup cubed ham to the thickened soup, stirring until melted and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier soup, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have Velveeta, a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese can work well. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can enhance the flavor profile nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra parsley flakes for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Corn Country Stuffed Peppers for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Empire 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 scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empire Cheese Soup contains roughly 1208 calories, with 28g protein, 201g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (223% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and iron (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1630mg per serving (71% 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 other types of cheese in this soup?
Yes, while Velveeta gives a creamy texture, you can substitute it with a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor. Just be sure to melt the cheese thoroughly for the best consistency.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving. However, be cautious as reheating may change the texture of the cheese slightly.
What can I add to make the soup more filling?
To enhance the soup's heartiness, consider adding cooked shredded chicken or additional diced ham. You could also stir in some cooked pasta or rice, making it a perfect companion to Chicken With Rice And Raisins.
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).