Name: Canadian Cheese Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sago pearls (small tapioca pearls); 2 cups water (for boiling sago); 1 cup coconut milk (or other plant-based milk); 2–3 tbsp sugar or sweetener of choice (divided); 1 tbsp matcha powder; 1/4 cup hot water (not boiling, for matcha); 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 1 tsp lime juice or lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Ice cubes or cold water (for chilling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and velvety smooth. It’s packed with flavor from sautéed vegetables and sharp cheddar, making it satisfying enough to serve as a main course. It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or soft pretzels. Plus, it comes together in under an hour using everyday ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Butter
Onion, finely chopped
Carrot, finely chopped or shredded
Celery, chopped
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
Chicken or vegetable broth
Milk or half-and-half
Beer (optional, for added depth)
Garlic, minced
Mustard powder
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives or green onions, for garnish

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the beer at this stage if using.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender and the soup thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in the milk or half-and-half. Do not let it boil.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
Stir in mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with chives or green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky, savory twist.
Use different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavor combinations.
Stir in diced potatoes or cauliflower to make it heartier.
Replace the beer with apple cider or more broth for a non-alcoholic version.
For extra creaminess, blend half the soup before adding the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling as this can cause the cheese to separate. This soup does not freeze well due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What type of cheddar works best?

Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar adds the most flavor. Always use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest texture.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Is the beer necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds a subtle depth, but you can replace it with broth or apple cider for a family-friendly version.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s better to shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Add cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly to ensure even melting.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, but the soup will be less creamy. Whole milk or half-and-half gives the best results.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, soft pretzels, or a simple green salad.

Can I freeze this soup?

Freezing is not recommended as the dairy may separate and become grainy when reheated.

How do I thicken the soup more?

Simmer it a bit longer uncovered, or add an extra tablespoon of flour during the roux-making step.

Can I add meat or other vegetables?

Yes, cooked bacon, diced ham, potatoes, or broccoli all make excellent additions.

Conclusion

Canadian Cheese Soup is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal or a crowd-pleasing starter, this cheesy, velvety soup delivers every time. With its flexibility and hearty nature, it’s sure to become a regular in your cold-weather cooking rotation.