Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening, the smell of something creamy and comforting wafting through the air. That’s exactly what Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup brings to the table. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, making you feel at home no matter where you are. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party, enjoying it on a laid-back weekend afternoon, or pairing it with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying meal, this soup delivers.

What sets this soup apart? It’s the harmonious blend of two rich, bold flavors: beer and cheese. The beer adds a layer of depth and slight bitterness, which balances the richness of the cheese. The result? A smooth, hearty, and comforting bowl of soup that will have you coming back for more. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, thanks to Campbell’s helping hands.

If you’re ready to try something different, with a bit of a twist on the usual creamy soups, Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup is calling your name. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can bring this wonderful dish to life in your own kitchen.

Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

So, how does one create this deliciously comforting beer cheese soup? Luckily, it doesn’t require a ton of fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. In fact, it’s simple enough to make after a long day, but impressive enough to serve to guests. Below is the step-by-step breakdown of how to whip up a bowl of Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup, complete with all the ingredients you need and the foolproof method to follow.

Ingredients Needed

• Campbell’s® Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The star of the show, providing that creamy, cheesy base that’s rich without being overwhelming.
• Beer (1 cup): Choose a beer that you enjoy drinking. A lighter beer like a pale ale or lager works best, as it balances the richness of the cheese without overpowering it.
• Chicken Broth (1 ½ cups): You can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. This helps loosen the soup while adding a savory depth.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): The more cheese, the better! Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly into the soup.
• Onion (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds a mild, sweet flavor that complements the beer and cheese.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the onion and adding richness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic elevates the soup’s flavor, bringing out the savory undertones.
• Flour (2 tablespoons): To help thicken the soup and create that smooth, creamy consistency.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): A small touch of tanginess that balances the richness of the cheese and beer.
• Ground Black Pepper (to taste): A bit of spice to season the soup.
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s talk about the step-by-step process of putting it all together. Don’t worry; it’s straightforward and almost impossible to mess up.

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping your onion and mincing your garlic. Shred the cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. Open the can of Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Create the Roux: Stir in the flour and let it cook for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly. This step helps to thicken the soup and gives it that silky smooth texture we all love.
4. Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and beer, ensuring everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
5. Incorporate the Cheese Soup and Cheese: Now, add the can of Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup and whisk until it’s fully combined. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely.
6. Season to Taste: Add the Dijon mustard, black pepper, and any additional seasoning you’d like. Keep tasting as you go, adjusting flavors as necessary.
7. Simmer and Thicken: Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps all the flavors meld together and thickens the soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer, or you can even add a bit more cheese for extra creaminess.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings-crispy bacon, extra shredded cheese, and green onions all make excellent choices.

Ingredient Insights

• Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup: This condensed soup is a lifesaver when you’re looking for a fast and flavorful base. It’s creamy, smooth, and packed with cheesy goodness, saving you time and effort in preparing the soup from scratch. The consistency is perfect for the soup’s creamy texture.
• Beer: Beer adds complexity to the soup that a simple broth can’t match. Light beers like lagers or pale ales bring just the right amount of bitterness to balance the rich cheese. Darker beers, like stouts or porters, could overpower the dish, but they could work if you prefer a heartier, more robust flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese (which often contains additives to prevent clumping). Plus, the sharper the cheese, the more flavor it will contribute to the soup, so opt for a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar.

Expert Tips

• Use High-Quality Beer: The beer flavor is present, so don’t go for a cheap, watery option. Choose a beer you’d actually drink for the best flavor impact.
• Don’t Rush the Roux: When you’re making the roux (flour and butter mixture), be patient. Cooking it for a couple of minutes helps it lose its raw taste and gives the soup the right thickening power.
• Whisk Constantly: When you add the liquids, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. It ensures a smooth, velvety soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or beer. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to thicken up. Always taste as you go!

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Beer Cheese Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The heat from the peppers complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Bacon Lovers’ Beer Cheese Soup: Crispy bacon crumbles on top are always a crowd-pleaser. For even more flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in bacon fat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly. You can even throw in some sautéed mushrooms to add extra depth.
• Smoked Beer Cheese Soup: Add a touch of smoked paprika or use smoked cheese for a rich, smoky flavor. This variation pairs wonderfully with a dark ale or porter.

Final Words

Campbell’s Beer Cheese Soup is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that brings rich, savory flavors to your table in just a few steps. It’s comforting, cheesy, and a bit unexpected with that wonderful beer twist. Plus, it’s a fantastic base to customize and make your own, whether you like it spicy, smoky, or topped with crispy bacon.