This rich and creamy Irish Beer Cheese Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with smooth cheese, hearty potatoes, and a splash of beer, it’s the perfect comfort food.
When I make this soup, I can’t help but smile. It’s fun to dip bread into it. Plus, it’s a great excuse to enjoy a pint while cooking—cheers to that! 🍻
I love how easy this soup comes together on a chilly day. Just mix everything in one pot, and you’ve got a yummy, cheesy treat that warms you up from the inside out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor to this soup. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon works well, or for a vegetarian twist, try using smoked paprika for that depth of flavor.
Onion & Garlic: Yellow onions are my go-to for a sweet flavor. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or green onions can substitute nicely, and garlic powder is an alternative if you don’t have fresh garlic.
Beer: Stout gives a rich taste, but any beer you have on hand will do. Pale ales are lighter and can also work well. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using non-alcoholic beer or extra broth with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is key for flavor! If you want a creamier soup, try using a blend of cheddar and gouda. For a dairy-free version, look for vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut cream is a great non-dairy substitute.
How Can I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy Without Lumps?
Getting a smooth, creamy texture in your Irish Beer Cheese Soup can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- After adding the flour, be sure to stir it well with the vegetables. Cooking the flour helps remove that raw taste.
- When pouring in the broth, do it gradually while stirring continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Use a whisk when adding the cream and cheese. This really helps blend everything together smoothly.
- Finally, keep the heat low when melting the cheese. It melts best without clumping at lower temperatures.
With these tips, you’ll achieve the deliciously creamy soup that everyone loves! Enjoy!
How to Make Irish Beer Cheese Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup potato, diced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup Irish beer (such as stout or pale ale)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped chives
- Bread bowls (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Beer Cheese Soup will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook, for a total of about 55-60 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend a little time sautéing the veggies and bacon, then letting everything blend together into a creamy, cheesy delight. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it becomes crispy. Once it’s nice and crunchy, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, but leave the bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot with the leftover bacon drippings. Sauté these veggies for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are tender and fragrant. This step is key for building a delicious base!
3. Adding the Potatoes:
Now, toss in the diced potatoes and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Stir everything well so the potatoes can begin to soften a bit.
4. Thickening the Soup:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat all the veggies with the flour, then cook for about 1 to 2 minutes. This helps remove the raw flour taste and thicken the soup later.
5. Pouring in the Broth and Beer:
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Next, add the Irish beer and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll love that beer aroma!
6. Simmering the Soup:
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the potatoes will tenderize nicely—just check with a fork to see if they’re soft.
7. Making it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and delicious.
8. Seasoning and Serving:
Lastly, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot in warmed bread bowls, if you’d like! Top each bowl with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chopped chives for an extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your hearty Irish Beer Cheese Soup!
Can I Use a Different Type of Beer for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Irish stout or pale ale works wonderfully, you can experiment with other beers like lagers or IPAs. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the beer will influence the overall taste of your soup, so choose one that you enjoy!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies or even use a meat substitute like tempeh or mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Add More Cheese to This Soup?
Of course! If you love cheese, feel free to add extra shredded cheddar or try other types like Gruyère or Swiss for a unique twist. Just make sure to add it gradually and stir until melted to maintain that creamy texture.
