Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Wisconsin with this delicious beer cheese soup. Made with a blend of cheddar cheese, beer, and spices, this creamy soup is the perfect appetizer or main course for cheese lovers. The velvety texture and tangy taste will warm your soul on a chilly evening, and the addition of bacon and scallions adds a savory twist. So grab a bowl and get ready to enjoy a taste of Wisconsin in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beer (preferably a lager)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat them evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly browned.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps from the flour mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, beer, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or beer to thin it out.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon, sliced scallions, and additional shredded cheddar cheese.
- Enjoy the beer cheese soup hot with crusty bread or pretzels for dipping!
Interesting Facts
Beer cheese soup is a beloved traditional dish in Wisconsin, where cheese-making has deep roots.
Cheddar cheese is the star ingredient in this soup, as Wisconsin is known for its high-quality and delicious cheddar.
The addition of beer gives the soup a unique flavor and adds depth to the creamy cheese base.
This recipe can be easily customized by using different types of beer to create variations in flavor.