Wisconsin Beer & Cheese Soup

This hearty Wisconsin-style soup combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese with the malty depth of bock beer, creating the ultimate comfort food for cold days. Loaded with crispy bacon and tender vegetables, this creamy soup delivers authentic Midwestern flavors in every spoonful.

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Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Soup

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 40

Servings:

Calories: 385kcal

Equipment

Chopping Board

Chef's Knife

Stockpot

Ingredients

12 ounces bock beer
8 slices bacon
1/2 cup onion diced
1/2 cup carrot finely chopped
1/2 cup celery minced
1/4 cup sweet red pepper minced
1 10 1/2 ounce can condensed chicken broth
1/4 cup flour
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Open beer and let stand at room temperature while preparing vegetables.
Cook bacon in a large soup kettle until crisp. Remove, drain on paper towels, and crumble. Set aside.
Sauté diced vegetables in 2 tablespoons of bacon grease until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Add condensed chicken broth to the kettle.
Fill the empty chicken broth can with beer and add to the mixture.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk remaining beer with flour until smooth.
Gradually add beer-flour mixture to the soup, stirring constantly until thickened.
Add half-and-half, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
Heat gently until cheese melts completely, stirring frequently.
Stir in sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Let beer sit open for at least 15 minutes before cooking to reduce carbonation and prevent excessive foaming

Use room temperature cheese for smoother melting and to prevent clumping

If soup becomes too thick, thin with additional chicken broth or milk

Soup can be made ahead but add cheese just before serving to maintain smooth texture

Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar works best for authentic Wisconsin flavor

Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version while maintaining the smoky flavor

For alcohol-free version, replace beer with additional chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar

Nutrition