Beer Cheese Soup

Table of Contents

1. Beer Cheese Soup Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions for This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
3. How To Make This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
4. Troubleshooting Tips for Cheddar Beer Soup
5. How To Serve This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
6. What to Serve with Beer Cheese Soup
7. When to Serve The Best Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
8. Drinks to Serve with Beer Cheese Soup
9. Storage Tips for Beer Cheese Soup
10. Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beer Cheese Soup
11. More Recipes You’ll Love
12. JUMP TO RECIPE
13. More Popular Recipes to Try

This beer cheese soup will get two thumbs up from the whole family. Creamy, rich, and cheesy, this comforting soup is packed full of flavors and will warm you up on even the coldest of days.

Beer Cheese Soup Ingredients

Substitutions and Additions for This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

BEER: We do not recommend light beers, such as Bud Light.

Budweiser, Coors, Miller, or Michelob will all work great for this recipe. Additional options include Sam Adams, Michelob, Heineken, or Yuengling. If you have a favorite craft beer, I would suggest it be similar to one of these lager beers.

For a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic beer such as Heineken 0.0, Coors Edge, and Budweiser Zero. You could also use a rich vegetable broth or beef stock to maintain the depth of flavor.

If you want a different beer style, a stout or porter can offer a richer, deeper taste, though it may darken the color of the soup. Stay away from some of the flavored or fruity beers like chocolate or orange as they will alter the outcome flavor of your beer cheese soup.

VARIETY OF CHEESES: Experiment with different cheeses like white cheddar, or Gruyere for a nuttier flavor, or a mix of Monterey Jack and mozzarella for a smoother, milder taste. However, avoid very soft cheeses as they may not blend well into the soup.

ROOT VEGETABLES: You could blend in carrots to your soup. Or consider swapping carrots with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter profile, or parsnips for a more earthy, slightly spicy twist.

PEPPERS: I like to use a yellow bell pepper in this flavorful soup recipe for the color; however, you can use orange or red pepper if you want. Remember that they may change the color of the soup once pureed.

ONION: Shallots can be used in place of onions for a milder, slightly sweeter taste. Leeks are another great option, offering a more delicate and slightly sweeter flavor compared to traditional onions.

GARLIC: For a different aroma, try using roasted garlic instead of raw. This will give a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor. If you can’t get enough garlic, you could also add a dash of garlic powder.

DRY MUSTARD: Dry mustard adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and beer. Start with a smaller amount, such as one teaspoon, and adjust to taste, up to one tablespoon.

CHICKEN STOCK: Vegetable stock is a perfect substitute. Beef broth can also be used for a deeper, more robust flavor, but it will alter the soup’s overall taste profile.

HEAVY CREAM: You can also use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind this will make the soup less creamy. A dairy-free alternative like coconut cream can be used for a lactose-free version, but it will add a slight coconut flavor.

How To Make This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

STEP ONE: In a medium skillet, on medium heat, cook the bacon pieces for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the pieces do not burn.

The bacon should be cooked all the way through and crispy.

Once cooked, using a slotted spoon to allow the grease to remain in the skillet, remove the crisp bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Set aside for garnish.

Reserve two tablespoons of the bacon fat.

While the bacon is cooking, you can prepare your other ingredients.

STEP TWO: In an eight-quart large stockpot, on medium-high heat, add the reserved bacon grease, butter, chopped onions, and chopped yellow bell pepper.

Instead of a large pot, you could also use a Dutch oven.

Then, add the minced garlic, thyme leaves, seasoning salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Saute for eight to ten minutes until the vegetables are soft and tender.

STEP THREE: Add the all-purpose flour, and stir to allow the flour to absorb into the butter and vegetables.

Add the bottle of lager beer and stir to incorporate, making sure that there are no lumps.

STEP FOUR: Add the low-sodium chicken broth and stir, making sure there are no lumps of flour remaining. Simmer for ten minutes. The beer soup will start to thicken as it simmers.

STEP FIVE: Pour the soup into the container of a blender, with the lid on, and blend on medium-high for 30 seconds to one minute. 

STEP SIX: Transfer the pureed soup back to the stockpot on low heat, and stir in the heavy cream.

STEP SEVEN: Add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses. Stir to melt the cheese into the soup until smooth. Turn off the heat to the stockpot.

STEP EIGHT: Ladle the soup into your bowls. Garnish with the cooked bacon crumbles, green onion, and an additional sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.

You could also serve in bread bowls!

To Make the Cheese Bread

Turn the oven to broil. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Place the French bread slices onto the tray in an even layer.

Butter each piece of bread and top with two tablespoons of shredded Monterey jack cheese.

Place the tray of cheese bread under the broiler for 30 seconds to one minute or until golden and melted. 

Troubleshooting Tips for Cheddar Beer Soup

Making beer cheese soup can sometimes present challenges, but most issues can be easily addressed with some troubleshooting tips.

Here are common problems and their solutions:

The cheese is not melting properly.

Solution: Ensure the cheese is grated or cut into small pieces for even melting. Add cheese slowly to the soup, stirring constantly, and avoid high heat, as it can cause the cheese to clump or separate.

The soup is too thick.

Solution: Gradually stir in additional broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid too quickly.

The soup is too thin.

Solution: Create a slurry by mixing a small amount of flour or cornstarch with water, then slowly whisk it into the soup. Let it simmer until it thickens, but avoid boiling.

The soup has a grainy texture.

Solution: This often happens due to overheating the soup or using high-moisture or highly aged cheeses. To prevent this, cook the soup on a low to medium heat, and consider using a mix of different types of cheese.

The soup is lacking flavor.

Solution: Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce.

The cheese is separating.

Solution: This issue is often due to high heat. Always cook beer cheese soup on low heat. If separation occurs, try blending the soup with an immersion blender to emulsify it.

The beer flavor is too strong.

Solution: Choose a milder beer, like a lager or a pilsner. If the beer flavor is overpowering, adding a bit more cream or broth can help balance it out.

The soup is curdling.

Solution: Curdling can occur when acidic beer meets dairy. To prevent this, warm the dairy ingredients before adding them to the soup, and add the beer slowly to the mixture while stirring.

There are lumps in the soup.

Solution: Lumps often form from not whisking the flour and fat properly when making the roux, or from adding cheese too quickly. To fix, use an immersion blender to smooth out the soup.

The soup has a bitter taste.

Solution: The bitterness may come from the beer. Next time, choose a beer with a lower hop content. To fix an already bitter soup, try adding a small amount of sugar or honey to counteract the bitterness.

Remember, patience and low heat are key when making beer cheese soup. Don’t rush the process, and taste as you go to ensure the flavor develops just right.

How To Serve This Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

Garnishes: Top the soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, or crumbled, crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.

Fresh parsley or thyme can also add a nice color contrast and a fresh taste.

You could also add a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Some like to add a dash of hot sauce.

Croutons or Bread: Serve with homemade or store-bought croutons, or pull-apart garlic bread on the side. They’re perfect for dipping and add a nice crunch.

Pair with a Salad: Offer a light, crisp salad on the side to balance the richness of the soup. A simple Caeser salad works well.

Side Dishes: Offer a variety of side dishes that complement the flavors, such as a charcuterie board, soft pretzels, or roasted vegetables.

What to Serve with Beer Cheese Soup

Serving beer cheese soup with complementary sides can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal for your main course.

Here are some great options to try pairing:

Breads: Crusty bread baked in the Dutch oven, herb and cheese biscuits, or dinner rolls would be delicious with this soup.

Grilled Sandwiches: A grilled cheese sandwich or a baked ham and cheese sandwich can be a hearty accompaniment, turning the soup into a more filling meal. A reuben sandwich loaded with sauerkraut would be delicious as well.

We also love Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese, Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese, or a Grilled Tuna Salad Sandwich.

Charcuterie Board: A small charcuterie board with various meats, cheeses, mushrooms, olives, and pickles can be a delightful side, especially when entertaining.

Apple: The crisp, slightly sweet flavor of apples pairs well with the savory taste of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast. Try our apple salad or broccoli apple salad.

German Sausages: For a heartier option, serve with sausage and peppers, which complement the beer element in the soup.

When choosing what to serve with beer cheese soup, consider balancing the richness of the soup with lighter sides or enhancing its hearty nature with more substantial accompaniments. This allows for a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.

When to Serve The Best Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

Cold Weather Comfort: Beer cheese soup is perfect for chilly or rainy days. Its warm and hearty nature makes it a great comfort food during the fall and winter months.

Casual Get-togethers: This soup is a hit at casual gatherings like potlucks, game nights, or watching sports. Its rich flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Oktoberfest or Beer-Themed Parties: If you’re hosting or attending a beer-themed event, beer cheese soup is a fitting choice. It complements the theme and pairs well with a variety of beers.

Appetizer for Special Dinners: Beer cheese soup can be an excellent starter for a more formal dinner, especially during the fall and winter seasons. Serve in small portions as it’s quite rich.

Holiday Meals: It’s a great addition to holiday menus, especially for occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a warm and comforting start to the meal.

Weekend Treat: Treat yourself and your family to this indulgent soup on a relaxed weekend. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some homemade comfort food.

Drinks to Serve with Beer Cheese Soup

Of course, your favorite beer can be paired with this delicious soup. However, there are many other options to consider as well. Here are some ideas:

Cider: Spiked apple cider pairs well with the soup. Its crispness and slight sweetness offer a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors. You can also try homemade apple cider.

Gin: Try our empress gin cocktail, Texas tea, or Alexander cocktail.

Sour Cocktails: A cocktail with a sour profile, like a tequila sour, vodka sour, lemon lime bitters, or Disaronno sour, can provide a nice balance to the creamy and savory nature of the soup.

Margarita: A classic margarita, with its blend of tequila, lime, and a touch of sweetness, can offer a refreshing and zesty counterpoint to the soup. Try our prickly pear margarita, mint margarita, or peach margarita as well.

Storage Tips for Beer Cheese Soup

MAKE AHEAD: Beer cheese soup can be made a day ahead, which can actually enhance its flavors as the ingredients meld together.

Simply prepare the soup as directed, allow it to cool slightly, and then transfer it to an airtight container.

This way, you can enjoy the soup’s rich flavor fully developed the next day.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store any leftover beer cheese soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last for up to three to four days.

The soup may thicken when chilled, so when reheating, you might need to add a bit of broth or milk to adjust its consistency.

IN THE FREEZER: Freezing beer cheese soup is possible, but it’s worth noting that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy and cheese content.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to two months.

Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

REHEATING: When reheating, do it gently to prevent the cheese from separating.

On the stovetop, reheat the soup over low heat, stirring frequently.

If you’re using a microwave, reheat it in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating. Microwave reheating is not the best method for this soup due to its creamy texture, but it can be done with care and frequent stirring.

In both cases, if the soup is too thick, add a little broth or milk until you achieve the desired consistency.

For frozen soup, ensure it’s fully thawed in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beer Cheese Soup

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of beer and cheese creates a unique and rich flavor. The depth and complexity of the beer complement the creamy, tangy taste of the cheese, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, flavorful dishes.

• Versatility in Ingredients: This soup allows for a variety of beer and cheese types, letting cooks experiment with different flavor combinations. It’s also adaptable to include various vegetables, meats, or spices. The soup can be easily customized with various toppings like bacon, chives, or sour cream, allowing people to tailor it to their tastes.

• Texture and Consistency: The creamy, smooth texture of the soup provides a satisfying mouthfeel. It’s thick and hearty, making it a fulfilling meal on its own.

• Pairing with Bread: It pairs well with bread, such as a crusty baguette or soft pretzel bites, which adds an enjoyable textural contrast and the pleasure of dipping.

Beer cheese soup masterfully blends a creamy texture with a rich, nuanced flavor profile, offering an indulgent, comforting, and satisfying culinary experience that everyone will rave about.

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