Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Delight
When chilly weather calls for something warm, cozy, and utterly delicious, Spinach Cheddar Soup is the perfect answer. This rich, creamy soup combines the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach with the sharp, tangy goodness of cheddar cheese, making it a go-to comfort food that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a casual gathering, this soup is easy to make and sure to impress. In this article, you’ll find a detailed Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe complete with tips, variations, and nutritional info to help you make the best version every time.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: Thanks to the cheddar and cream, every spoonful feels luxurious.
- Healthy Boost: Packed with fresh spinach, it offers iron, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy — just basic pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a starter. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad.
Ingredients for Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe
To make approximately 4-6 servings of this comforting soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne (optional, for a slight kick)
Step-by-Step Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe
1. Prepare the Base: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Create a Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. This mixture, called a roux, will thicken your soup. Cook for 2-3 minutes, making sure the flour doesn’t brown — you want a light golden color.
3. Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until it starts to thicken.
4. Add Milk and Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and heavy cream. Keep the heat gentle to prevent the dairy from curdling. Continue stirring until the soup is smooth and heated through.
5. Add Spinach
Gradually add the chopped fresh spinach. Stir and cook until the spinach wilts completely, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until each addition melts completely. Be sure the soup is off the heat or very low to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
7. Season and Serve
Add salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and paprika or cayenne pepper if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serve your Spinach Cheddar Soup hot with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Use sharp cheddar cheese: The stronger the cheese, the more flavor your soup will have. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Don’t skip the roux: It’s essential for the perfect creamy texture.
- Avoid boiling after adding cheese: Boiling can cause the cheese to separate or get grainy.
- Substitute milk or cream: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a milk alternative like oat milk. For richer soup, add more cream.
- Fresh spinach is best: You can substitute frozen spinach, but fresh gives the best texture and flavor.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Variations to Try
- Add potatoes: For a heartier soup, add 1-2 diced potatoes along with the broth and cook until tender.
- Use kale or Swiss chard: Swap spinach for other leafy greens for a different twist.
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or crispy bacon bits for a more filling meal.
- Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and vegan cheddar cheese alternatives.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Calcium: 350 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Note: Nutrition varies depending on ingredients and portion size.
How to Store and Reheat Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe
Storing:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. (Note: Dairy soups may separate slightly after freezing, so reheat gently and stir well.)
Reheating:
- Warm on the stove over low heat.
- Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup.
- Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes! If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding to the soup to avoid diluting the flavors.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, the recipe uses all-purpose flour to thicken the soup. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Prepare the base as instructed, then transfer everything (except cheese) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours. Add cheese and cream at the end and stir until melted.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Cheddar Soup Recipe is a comforting classic that combines wholesome greens with cheesy richness in every spoonful. It’s quick to prepare, delicious, and versatile enough to be customized to your taste.
Next time you want a warm, filling meal that’s simple yet satisfying, give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you!
