If you’re someone who craves the creamy, melty goodness of nacho cheese but wants to take it a step further, nacho cheese soup is the perfect dish to satisfy both your hunger and your cravings. This rich, velvety soup combines all the best qualities of classic nacho cheese-bold flavor, smooth texture, and a comforting warmth-into a soup that’s perfect for dipping, sipping, or slurping by the bowlful.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, looking for a fun and indulgent meal, or simply need a dish to warm you up on a chilly day, nacho cheese soup delivers every time. What makes it even better is that it’s so versatile, easy to make, and can be customized to fit whatever you’re in the mood for.
Let’s dive deep into the recipe and the layers that make it so delicious!
Nacho Cheese Soup Recipe
This nacho cheese soup is everything you’ve ever wanted in a cheesy soup: creamy, flavorful, and loaded with your favorite cheesy goodness. It’s a great way to bring the nacho flavor into your soup bowl, but with the added bonus of being a full meal thanks to a blend of vegetables, seasonings, and, of course, cheese.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing and creating a smooth base.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – A touch of sweetness and color to balance the richness of the cheese.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – For that savory kick.
- 2 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup, providing the liquid needed to bring everything together.
- 1 cup milk – Helps achieve that creamy texture we’re all after.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the dish. It provides the signature nacho cheese flavor.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – For added creaminess and smooth texture.
- 1 tablespoon flour – Helps thicken the soup to that perfect creamy consistency.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – Gives the soup a subtle kick without being overwhelming.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – For that warm, earthy undertone.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To bring all the flavors into balance.
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Optional Toppings
- Crumbled tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Jalapeño slices
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté The Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant, around 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes aromatic.
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Make The Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat. This will form the base of the soup. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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Add The Liquids
Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. Then, slowly pour in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Season The Soup
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Melt The Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously to melt them into the soup. Continue to stir until the soup is creamy and the cheese is fully incorporated.
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Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and let the flavors meld together.
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Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your desired toppings-tortilla chips for crunch, sour cream for creaminess, and jalapeño slices for a spicy kick.
Ingredient Insights
The ingredients in this nacho cheese soup work in perfect harmony to create a comforting, flavorful dish. Here’s a closer look at why they’re so important:
- Butter: It forms the rich base of the soup, creating a smooth mouthfeel and allowing the flavors to meld.
- Onion and Bell Pepper: These two ingredients add a mild sweetness and earthy flavor that balances out the richness of the cheese. They also add texture to the soup, making it more hearty and satisfying.
- Garlic: Essential for any savory dish, garlic adds depth and a savory base flavor that elevates the soup.
- Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: These two cheeses are the heroes of the recipe. Cheddar gives you that signature sharp, bold nacho flavor, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully, lending creaminess to the soup.
- Spices (Chili Powder & Cumin): The chili powder offers warmth and smokiness, while cumin gives a depth of flavor that makes the soup more complex.
- Chicken Broth & Milk: The combination of these liquids creates the soup’s foundation. The broth adds savory depth, while milk brings in the creaminess we all crave in a cheese-based soup.
Expert Tips
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the soup. Grating your own cheese ensures a smoother, creamier texture.
- Balance the Spice: If you want to adjust the spice level, you can always add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Or, add some diced jalapeños for a fresh, spicy kick.
- Don’t Rush the Melting: When melting the cheese into the soup, take your time. Stir gently and ensure the heat is low to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy.
- Thickening the Soup: If your soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can make a slurry with cornstarch or more flour mixed with water. Add it to the soup, then simmer to thicken.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of nacho cheese soup is that it’s incredibly adaptable. Here are some fun variations:
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Meaty Version
Add cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage to the soup for a more substantial, protein-packed meal. Brown the meat first and then add it along with the vegetables.
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Vegetarian Twist
Load the soup with more vegetables like corn, beans, and diced tomatoes. You can even throw in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
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Spicy Nacho Cheese Soup
For those who like it hot, add more heat! Jalapeños, spicy hot sauce, or even some chopped chipotle peppers can take the heat level to the next level.
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Smoky Flavor
Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or some roasted poblano peppers for that smoky, grilled flavor.
Final Words
Nacho cheese soup is a dish that combines comfort with indulgence, and it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can have a warm, cheesy bowl of goodness ready to enjoy. Whether you go traditional or switch it up with some fun variations, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cheese cravings.
It’s perfect for any occasion-game days, casual dinners, or even a cozy night in. You can serve it with sides like tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cheesy experience.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Basic Nacho Cheese Soup?
To make a basic nacho cheese soup, you’ll need butter, flour, milk, chicken or vegetable broth, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, jalapeños, and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Can I Use Pre-shredded Cheese For Nacho Cheese Soup?
While you can use pre-shredded cheese, it’s recommended to shred your own cheese for better texture and melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the soup.
How Can I Make Nacho Cheese Soup Spicier?
To make your nacho cheese soup spicier, add extra jalapeños, use a hotter variety of chili pepper, or incorporate some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
Can I Make Nacho Cheese Soup Without Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can make nacho cheese soup without cream cheese by substituting it with more shredded cheddar or another creamy ingredient like sour cream or heavy cream to maintain the soup’s smooth texture.
How Can I Thicken My Nacho Cheese Soup?
To thicken your nacho cheese soup, you can either cook the soup longer to reduce the liquid, add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water), or use a roux made from butter and flour.
Can I Add Vegetables To Nacho Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, corn, tomatoes, or even spinach to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your nacho cheese soup.
Is It Possible To Make Nacho Cheese Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make nacho cheese soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensuring the cheese and other ingredients do not contain animal-derived additives.
What Type Of Cheese Is Best For Nacho Cheese Soup?
A combination of sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack is commonly used for nacho cheese soup. The sharp cheddar adds flavor, while Monterey Jack provides a smooth, creamy texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Nacho Cheese Soup?
Leftover nacho cheese soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Can I Make Nacho Cheese Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, nacho cheese soup can be made ahead of time. Allow the soup to cool, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk or broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.