Canadian Cheese Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish inspired by classic Canadian flavors and hearty home cooking. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, tender vegetables, and a velvety broth, this soup is perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave warm comfort food. It’s especially popular among those searching for easy cheese soup recipes, cheddar cheese soup, and homemade creamy soup ideas with bold flavor and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Butter – 4 tablespoons
Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
Carrots – 2 medium, peeled and diced
Celery – 2 stalks, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
All-purpose flour – ¼ cup
Chicken broth – 4 cups
Whole milk – 2 cups
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Sharp Canadian cheddar cheese – 3 cups, freshly shredded
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Dry mustard powder – ½ teaspoon
Paprika – ½ teaspoon
Optional additions
Cooked bacon, crumbled – ½ cup
Potatoes, diced and cooked – 1 cup
Chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Make the roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
Build the soup base
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add dairy
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Do not let the soup boil, as this can cause the dairy to separate.
Add cheese and seasoning
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish and serve
Once the soup is thick, creamy, and well blended, remove from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Canadian Cheese Soup hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or homemade biscuits. It also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a grilled sandwich for a complete, satisfying meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling during reheating to maintain a smooth, creamy texture. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, slow-cooked vegetables, and a creamy base creates a deep, savory flavor that’s both indulgent and comforting. Using freshly shredded cheese ensures a smooth soup without graininess, making this one of the best homemade cheese soup recipes you can prepare.
Variations
For a heartier version, add cooked potatoes or bacon. For extra depth, substitute part of the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also experiment with different Canadian cheeses such as aged cheddar or Colby-style blends.
Final Thoughts
Canadian Cheese Soup is a timeless, cozy recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, satisfying, and perfect for chilly days, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food soups, easy homemade meals, and rich cheese-based dishes made from scratch.
Going to make this soup, sounds delightful.