Tangy cheddar soup with mustard

This cheddar cheese soup with mustard is for those who love bold flavors. The combination of two mustards - smooth Dijon and textured whole grain - adds incredible depth and a pleasant tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

It's the kind of soup you'd find in a British pub, served alongside crusty bread and a cold pint. The mustard doesn't make it spicy; rather, it adds complexity and brightness that elevates simple cheese soup to something memorable.

Why Two Mustards?

  • Dijon - Smooth, sharp, vinegary kick
  • Whole grain - Textural interest, milder heat
  • Together - Complex layers of flavor

Cheddar and Mustard Pairing

This is a classic British combination because:

  • Mustard cuts through fat
  • Acidity balances richness
  • Both have sharp, bold flavors
  • Traditional pairing in ploughman's lunch

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty bread or pretzels
  • Pair with British ale or lager
  • Apple slices on the side
  • As a dip for sausages

Cheddar Cheese Soup with Mustard

Tangy soup with sharp cheddar, Dijon, and whole grain mustard.

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: 30 min
Servings: 6

Nutrition per serving

375Calories
16gProtein
14gCarbs
28gFat
1gFiber
3gSugar

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
  2. Make the roux. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes until light golden. Add white wine and cook 2 minutes until mostly evaporated.
  3. Add liquids. Gradually whisk in broth and cream. Simmer 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Add cheese. Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar one handful at a time, stirring until each addition melts completely.
  5. Add mustards. Whisk in Dijon and whole grain mustard until fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve with crusty bread.

Recipe Notes

  • More tang: Add an extra tablespoon of Dijon.
  • No wine: Substitute with broth plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • English style: Use English mustard for more heat.
  • Storage: Refrigerate 3 days. Mustard flavor intensifies as it sits.