Winter Warmers: Best Cheeses for Soups and Stews

11 January, 2025 Recipes
Soup bread and salad
Credit: Unsplash/Freddy G.

Comfort food is a must, especially during the winter season when all you want is some steaming hot meals. But, cooking delicious winter meals doesn't have to be a hassle. Making some hot soups and stews during the winter season will not just boost your immunity, but help you stay full and healthy at the same time! And one way to add the taste & texture is by adding some cheese to your dishes. Don’t be fooled, though, as some cheeses work well in hot dishes while others will not result well.

Not everyone knows that cheese isn't just for starters or salads. Quite a large number of interesting and exotic cheeses can be used for making hot soups and stews because they melt easily and add a rich thickness and yummy gooeyness that makes these healthy delights a hit in a household with picky eaters! Read more to learn our top 7 cheese recommendations!

Parmesan

Parmesan is almost always a pantry staple, especially if your family loves pasta. Making a cheesy Alfredo sauce should be fairly simple, but how about adding Parmesan to make a cheesy Chicken Alfredo Soup?! Wonderfully smooth and creamy, sprinkling in Parmesan can change a simple classic soup to a new exciting treat. Try it out!

Sharp Cheddar

For those long winter days when you don't feel like cooking or even eating heavy meals, cheddar is your best friend! Whip up chicken broth with butter, onion & sharp cheddar to create a creamy cheddar soup. We guarantee you that it will be your quick fix for many more winter evenings! It's light, cheesy, and filling as well.

Gruyère

If you're struggling to get your kids to have their greens, then try out a Spinach soup that includes all the healthy spinach alongside the onions and flavourful butter. The best part is that Gruyère has a slightly sweet and salty taste, which appeals to the taste buds of almost everyone. Try it out with a generous portion of melted cheese and watch the soup disappear!

Gouda

Made typically from pasteurized cow's milk, Gouda may also be made from goat or sheep milk. This hard yellow cheese has a nutty sweet flavour which makes it an excellent topping choice when melted on some of your favourite comfort foods. While you can find Gouda that is semi-hard, we recommend shredding some hard cheese and using it while cooking French Onion soup. Creamy & yummy!

Chicken steak and cheese
Credit: Pixabay/Pasita Wanseng

Provolone

Provolone is a renowned Italian cheese, highly favored for enhancing pizzas and sandwiches. What truly elevates this semi-hard cheese is pairing it with the rich flavors of Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Packed with steak, onions, and a generous helping of cheese, this soup is a flavorful delight! Not so keen for another soup? Then try a Chicken Provolone for a more satisfying meal. 

Monterey Jack

If you prefer something mild and creamy, then Monterey Jack should make it to the top of your list. This semi-hard cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk and once melted, gives a thick creamy texture. Pair this buttery melted cheese in the broccoli cheese soup to get all the nutrients in a single meal. It's a hit among young children!

Swiss Cheese

If you think the delicate-looking Swiss Cheese pairs well only with some fruits or sweet wine, then you need to think again! Swiss Cheese can be used to make a decadent Chicken Cordon Bleu soup that includes the chunky goodness of ham, chicken, and cheese. Enjoy the buttery notes as you enjoy a mouthful of the hot meal as you warm up with your family at home during winter.

Not all dishes need to have cheese, but adding it in small amounts or as a topping can improve texture & taste. It is also a good way to get the kids to eat healthy. Definitely try out a recipe or two and let us know which cheese you love adding to your soups & stews!