Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Immersion blender (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
2. Melt the butter in the pot with the bacon grease over medium heat.
3. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
7. If desired, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
8. Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 428
- Fat: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of chicken broth, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of cheddar cheese.
- Instead of bacon, diced ham or cooked sausage can be used.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for a heartier soup.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the flour into the butter and bacon grease mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk until desired consistency is reached.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped parsley
- Shredded cheese
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thin, add more cheese or flour to thicken.
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Cheese soup has been a popular dish in the United States since the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory, salty, smoky
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a starter.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Bacon, Cheddar, Bacon-Y, Cheddar-Y