Vegetable Cheddar Soup
Creamy vegetable cheddar soup combines tender broccoli and cauliflower with rich cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for cozy meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. margarine or butter
- 2 Tbsp. flour ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. white pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. milk ⓘ
- 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 2 c. Green Giant Valley combinations broccoli and cauliflower supreme (frozen, from 16 oz. pkg.) ⓘ
- 8 oz. (2 c.) shredded white or yellow Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, onion powder, white pepper, milk, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cook over low heat until cheese is melted, stirring constantly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add more flavor, sauté some minced garlic or diced onions in the margarine before adding the flour. You can also substitute the frozen vegetable mix with fresh broccoli and cauliflower if available. This soup pairs beautifully with Gourmet Potato Soup for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or croutons for added texture. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping, making it a satisfying meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken Salad Balls for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Vegetable Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cheese to separate. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Cheddar Soup contains roughly 829 calories, with 14g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 for this soup?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and texture slightly. A sharp cheddar will give a more pronounced cheese flavor, while a mild cheese will be creamier.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. This swap will maintain the flavor while making it suitable for those avoiding meat. Additionally, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian, as some brands contain anchovies.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes when you add the onion powder. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce just before serving. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences for a perfect kick!
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).