Lavon'S Cheese Soup
Lavon'S Cheese Soup is a comforting, creamy dish packed with tender vegetables and melted American cheese, perfect for a cozy meal. Its rich, savory flavor makes it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine boiling water, shredded carrots, chopped celery, and chopped onion in a pot and cook covered for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Do not drain the vegetables.
- In a separate saucepan, combine flour, milk, and condensed chicken broth, and cook to make a sauce.
- Add the sauce to the cooked vegetables.
- Stir in the grated American cheese or cheese spread until melted and well incorporated.
- Heat the mixture until very hot, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the soup. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil and use low-fat milk. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the taste as well. If you prefer another cheese, cheddar works nicely to complement the American cheese or cheese spread.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For added texture, consider topping it with croutons or crispy bacon bits. It also makes a comforting starter for a meal featuring hearty chicken recipes like Edith'S Chicken Pie or a light lunch option alongside a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lavon'S Cheese Soup contains roughly 957 calories, with 21g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), and potassium (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1818mg per serving (79% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cheese soup a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little milk if necessary to adjust the consistency.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth. This will still provide a flavorful base while keeping the soup meat-free. Additionally, for a creamier texture, you might use a combination of vegetable broth and heavy cream.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup ends up being too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the soup gradually as it simmers, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency.
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).