Cheese Soup Pioneer Woman Recipe

Cheese soup-a comforting, creamy, and satisfying dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold winter night or looking for a delicious starter to impress guests, cheese soup has earned its spot on many dinner tables. One particular recipe that stands out in the world of cheesy goodness is the Pioneer Woman’s Cheese Soup. Known for her homestyle, accessible, and flavorful meals, Ree Drummond (a.k.a. The Pioneer Woman) has captured the hearts of many with her easy-to-follow recipes. Her cheese soup is no exception-it’s indulgent, hearty, and packs a punch of creamy flavor, all while being a breeze to whip up.

In this post, we’re diving deep into the specifics of this comforting cheese soup. From ingredient breakdowns to expert tips and variations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this dish your own.

Cheese Soup Pioneer Woman Recipe

Ree Drummond’s Cheese Soup recipe is as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. It’s a recipe that speaks to the heart, with layers of smooth cheese, tender vegetables, and a velvety broth that will leave you wanting more. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity-nothing too fancy, just pure, unadulterated comfort in a bowl. Here’s a breakdown of how to make it.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe calls for basic pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that work together to create a soup that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter (unsalted): 4 tablespoons – Adds richness and helps create a smooth base for the soup.
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup – This helps thicken the soup and creates a roux to bind the ingredients.
• Onions: 1 large, finely chopped – Onions bring a savory depth to the flavor profile and sweetness when cooked.
• Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced – A nice, mild sweetness and a pop of color.
• Celery: 2 ribs, diced – A great way to add freshness and crunch.
• Chicken broth: 4 cups – The liquid foundation of the soup, adding flavor and depth.
• Whole milk: 2 cups – For that creamy consistency that makes the soup smooth and luscious.
• Cheddar cheese (sharp): 2 cups, shredded – The star of the show! Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives the soup that signature tangy cheese flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded – Adds creaminess and stretchiness for a cheesy soup that’s ultra satisfying.
• Salt and pepper: To taste – Essential for seasoning the soup to your personal preference.
• Hot sauce (optional): A few dashes – If you like a little heat, hot sauce can elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
• Croutons or bacon bits (optional): For garnish – Add texture and crunch, making the soup even more comforting.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients lined up, it’s time to bring it all together. Here’s how you’ll cook this cheesy masterpiece:

1. Prep the Veggies: Start by washing and dicing your vegetables-onions, carrots, and celery. Set them aside for easy access while you cook.
2. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, making sure it forms a smooth paste, but doesn’t brown. This is your roux, the base that will thicken the soup.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the roux and sauté for 4-5 minutes. You want the veggies to soften slightly and become fragrant but not fully cooked through at this point. This helps infuse the butter and flour mixture with flavor.
4. Add the Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once incorporated, add the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup should thicken up and become more cohesive.
5. Cheese Time: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using) to taste. Taste test and adjust the seasoning until the soup is perfectly flavorful.
7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or bacon bits, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role of each ingredient can elevate your appreciation for the soup-and give you some leeway to adjust things to your liking:

• Butter and Flour: These two ingredients are the building blocks for the soup’s thickness. The butter provides richness, while the flour helps bind everything together. This combination creates the smooth texture that makes cheese soup so comforting.
• Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar and the stretchiness of mozzarella work wonders when combined. Cheddar provides a tangy, bold flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
• Milk and Chicken Broth: The milk creates a creamy base, while the chicken broth infuses the soup with depth. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Veggies (Carrots, Celery, Onions): The vegetables add more than just flavor. They offer a textural contrast to the creamy soup, and their natural sweetness helps balance out the richness of the cheese.

Expert Tips

• Don’t rush the roux: The roux is a key step in creating the soup’s perfect texture. Let it cook for a couple of minutes before adding the liquids. This will help remove any floury taste and give the soup a smoother consistency.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect how well it melts. Freshly shredded cheese will melt more evenly and create a creamier soup.
• Stir frequently: Keep stirring the soup as it cooks, especially once the cheese is added. This will help prevent the cheese from clumping and ensure the soup stays smooth.
• Adjust the consistency: If the soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
• Let it sit: Like many soups, cheese soup tastes even better after a bit of resting. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and it will have a richer flavor.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to mix it up:

• Add Meat: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to the soup. Crumbled bacon especially adds a nice smoky flavor.
• Spicy Cheese Soup: Spice things up by adding a bit more hot sauce, or toss in some diced jalapeños for a kick. Pepper jack cheese can also be a great addition to turn up the heat.
• Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic and adding it to the soup can deepen the flavor. It brings a rich, mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the bacon bits. You can also add in more vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or potatoes for extra texture and flavor.

Final Words

This Pioneer Woman Cheese Soup is truly one of those recipes that you can return to over and over again. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. The beauty lies in its simplicity-just a few ingredients combine to create something magical. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to please.