If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort, look no further than this luscious Monterey Jack Cheese Soup! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this delightful American classic is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want to indulge. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick 30-minute preparation time, you’ll be savoring each spoonful in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves, preparing them for sautéing.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth base.
- Slowly add shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring continuously to ensure even melting and prevent cheese from clumping.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Simmer the soup on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is completely melted and the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into warm bowls and optionally garnish with additional cheese, chopped chives, or crispy bacon bits.
Tips
- Choose Quality Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a high-quality Monterey Jack cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options.
- Sautéing Matters: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Cooking the onions until they’re translucent enhances the soup's flavor profile.
- Control the Heat: When adding the cheese, keep the heat low to prevent it from becoming grainy. Stir constantly for a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick, or add herbs like thyme for extra depth.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your soup by garnishing with crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, or a sprinkle of extra cheese right before serving for that professional touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 100mg
