Onion Cheese Soup

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A rich and comforting onion cheese soup featuring caramelized Spanish onions, melted Cheddar, and a creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty starter, this soup combines sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors to delight fans of classic comfort food.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Spanish onions
  • 4 Tbsp. butter
  • 4 Tbsp. flour
  • 2 c. milk
  • 2 c. chicken stock
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 1 egg yolk, beaten
  • 1 c. mild Cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a 4-quart saucepan over low heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until lightly browned.
  3. Add flour and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring well to blend with the butter and onions.
  4. Slowly pour in milk and chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and continue stirring until the soup thickens.
  6. Whisk the beaten egg yolk into the soup slowly, then add the grated Cheddar cheese.
  7. Simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try caramelizing the onions longer before adding the flour. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend. You can use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option. For added depth, consider mixing in a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional grated Cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a classic Chicken Yum-Yum for a comforting dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or stock while reheating to restore the desired consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Onion Cheese Soup contains roughly 958 calories, with 27g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2369mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).

958 kcal 48% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.2g 54% DV
Total Fat 33.3g 43% DV
Carbs 137.2g 50% DV
Fiber 8.4g 30% DV
Sugar 8.4g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2368.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 523.2mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 363.1mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 136.9mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 64mg 71% DV
Vitamin D 1.7mcg 8% DV
Calcium 219.7mg 17% DV
Iron 8.9mg 50% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it even more delicious.

What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?

If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or Swiss cheese can be excellent substitutes, providing a unique flavor and melt. For a sharper taste, consider using aged cheddar or a blend of cheeses for added complexity in flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and skip the egg yolk for a vegan-friendly version. The soup will still be rich and flavorful, especially with the deliciously sautéed onions and cheese.

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).

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