Hudson S Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

Recreate the legendary cheddar cheese soup from Hudson's, the beloved Michigan department store! This creamy, dreamy soup features sharp, aged cheddar cheese (12 months+), a secret touch of Angostura bitters for unexpected depth, and perfectly sautéed vegetables. A nostalgic taste of Michigan history, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort food perfection!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 650.4 kcal
Protein 69g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Hudson S Cheddar Cheese Soup

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Hudson S Cheddar Cheese Soup

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • Onions
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • Carrots
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Whole Milk
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • Aged Cheddar Cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Angostura bitters, to taste (about 2-3 dashes per bowl)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Hudson S Cheddar Cheese Soup

  1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until foamy.
  2. Add 1 medium onion (chopped), 2 celery stalks (chopped), and 1 medium carrot (chopped).
  3. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Stir constantly for 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk in 4 cups milk and 2 cups chicken stock. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, until the carrots are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat. Add 2 cups (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
  8. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  9. Ladle soup into bowls.
  10. Garnish each bowl with a dash of Angostura bitters (about 2-3 dashes) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
  11. Serve immediately with crusty sourdough bread for dipping.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

39 g

Sugar

37g

Fat

147g

Carbs

7g