Tennessee Cheddar Soup
Tennessee Cheddar Soup offers a creamy, cheesy flavor with hearty vegetables, perfect for comforting gatherings or a warm appetizer that delights cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute vegetables in margarine until soft.
- Add flour and mix until smooth.
- Add chicken stock and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add cheese and cook for 10 minutes longer.
- Add milk, salt, and white pepper.
- Heat to serving temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the Cheddar with Gruyère for a more complex taste. If you want a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper. Make sure to stir frequently as the cheese melts to prevent clumping. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk. This soup pairs beautifully with Autumn Cheese Soup for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Tennessee Cheddar Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches or a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial dish, consider serving alongside Savory Glazed Chicken. Garnish with chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
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, add a splash of milk or chicken stock to reach the desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can alter the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Cheddar Soup contains roughly 1313 calories, with 18g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (317% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1215mg per serving (53% 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 a different type of cheese in this soup?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist. However, keep in mind that Cheddar provides a strong flavor and creamy texture that is characteristic of this soup. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste while still maintaining the creamy base.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and ensure that your cheese is vegetarian-friendly. This will maintain the soup's richness without using any meat products. You could also add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
How can I thicken the soup if it turns out too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can create a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and water, then slowly whisk it into the soup while it simmers. Alternatively, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or food processor to create a thicker consistency without the need for additional flour.
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).