Description
Hello, food lovers! Today, we are diving into the rich and creamy world of a classic comfort dish: Canadian Cheese Soup. This deliciously cheesy recipe, packed with ham, red potatoes, carrots, and leeks, is the perfect warm meal to cozy up with during chilly nights. Whether you’re a fan of hearty soups or just love the creamy goodness of cheese-based dishes, this soup is bound to hit the spot!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- ½ cup onions, diced
- 1 leek, green top removed, thoroughly washed and sliced
- 2 tsp. sea salt or kosher salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
- 2 cups cooked, cubed ham
For the Cheese Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup gluten-free or regular all-purpose flour
- 1 quart whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half or cream for extra richness)
- 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to mix and match cheese varieties)
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with a plant-based alternative like smoked tofu.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the chicken broth, potatoes, celery, carrots, onions, and leeks. Add the salt and pepper for seasoning. Bring everything to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the vegetables are simmering, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Slowly add the cream, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking until smooth and thickened.
Step 3: Add Cheese to the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Cheese Sauce with the Soup
Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the simmered vegetables and stir to combine. Add the cubed ham and heat the soup through for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated through and combined, your Canadian Cheese Soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of the soup. Fresh potatoes, leeks, and carrots bring a natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda or Swiss, for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth, or add more flour to the cheese sauce.