Cozy Up with Creamy Beer Cheese Soup and Soft Pretzels
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy soup on a chilly day? We think not! And when that soup is a rich, flavorful beer cheese soup paired with soft, chewy pretzels? Well, that's just pure bliss. This recipe is not only incredibly delicious, but it's also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering.
A Symphony of Flavors
This isn't your average cheese soup. The combination of savory sauteed vegetables, a hint of spice from jalapeno, and the smoky notes of paprika create a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of beer not only adds a unique complexity but also helps to tenderize the vegetables and creates a velvety smooth texture. And let's not forget the cheese! A mix of sharp cheddar and smoked cheddar delivers a rich, cheesy experience that is simply irresistible.
The Perfect Pair: Soft Pretzels
What's beer cheese soup without its soulmate? Soft pretzels! These warm, slightly salty, and chewy delights are the perfect vessel for scooping up the creamy soup. Whether you choose to make them from scratch or opt for a store-bought version, they are an absolute must for completing this delicious duo. And for a semi-homemade option, consider using store bought pretzel dough and finishing them in the oven or air fryer.
Tips for Success
- Don't Overheat the Cheese: To achieve a smooth, creamy soup, make sure to let the soup cool down slightly before adding the cheese. Adding it to piping hot soup can cause it to clump and become grainy.
- Use a Good Quality Beer: The type of beer you use will affect the flavor of the soup. A basic wheat beer like Blue Moon works great, but feel free to experiment with other varieties. Non-alcoholic beer is also an option if you are avoiding alcohol.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While the soup is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative with toppings. A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dash of extra paprika, or even some crispy bacon bits will add an extra layer of flavor.
Make it Your Own
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to adjust it to your own taste. Add more or less spice, use different types of cheese, or try different vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
Recipe
Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 stalks celery, minced
- 1 jalapeno, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bottle of beer
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, jalapeno, red pepper, and smoked paprika. Saute for a few minutes until softened.
- Add half of the beer and all of the broth. Bring to a low simmer.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Add the butter-flour mixture to the simmering soup pot. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes until it starts to thicken. Slowly whisk in the milk and the remaining beer. Simmer again for 5-10 minutes until creamy and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and wait for a few minutes for the soup to cool down slightly. Stir in the cheese until evenly melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with soft pretzels.
Notes:
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of chipotle powder along with the smoked paprika.
- If you are short on time, feel free to use store-bought soft pretzels or pretzel rolls.
- Serve immediately. Beer cheese soup is best fresh.
Get Ready to Cozy Up!
This Beer Cheese Soup with Soft Pretzels is the perfect recipe to warm you up and bring a smile to your face. It's a great dish to share with friends and family and is sure to be a hit with everyone. So grab your ingredients, put on some cozy music, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!