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Spicy Chili Beer Cheese Soup

Spicy Chili Beer Cheese Soup
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Spicy Chili Beer Cheese Soup is a creamy, bold-flavored soup that combines sharp cheddar cheese, spicy chili heat, and malty beer for a comforting and warming meal. Ideal for chilly days or entertaining guests, this luscious soup is velvety with a hint of chunkiness and customizable spice levels to suit any palate.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 12 ounces beer (lager or ale; substitute with broth or sparkling water if desired)
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1–2 fresh chili peppers or additional chili powder, to taste
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
  2. Build the roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened onions and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup and prevent lumps.
  3. Add beer and broth: Slowly pour in the beer while whisking to combine with the roux, then gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors and begin thickening the soup.
  4. Simmer chili heat: Stir in the chili powder along with any fresh or dried chili peppers. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level and allow the heat to infuse into the broth for about 5 minutes.
  5. Melt in cheese and cream: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to incorporate the velvety richness.
  6. Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt, black pepper, and optional smoked paprika as desired. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for smooth melting and bold flavor without stringiness.
  • Add cheese off the heat to prevent curdling and ensure a silky texture.
  • Gradually add liquids to the roux to avoid lumps and achieve even thickness.
  • Taste and adjust spices and salt gradually to balance heat and savoriness.
  • Choose a beer you enjoy drinking, as it affects the soup’s final flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
  • Customize spice levels by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
  • Add smoked sausage, bacon, or ground beef for a hearty twist.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer cheese soup, spicy chili soup, cheddar cheese soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, spicy soup

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