Get ready to experience a culinary masterpiece that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary symphony of flavors! This Pumpkin Pear Cheddar Soup is not just another recipe – it's a creamy, luxurious journey that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, the delicate brightness of pear, and the rich, tangy punch of sharp cheddar. Perfect for cozy autumn evenings or when you need a soul-warming meal that will make your kitchen smell like pure comfort, this soup is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 ripe pear, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add diced pear, stirring to combine. Allow mixture to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add pumpkin puree to the pot, stirring thoroughly to integrate with broth and create a smooth base.
- Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in grated sharp cheddar cheese, whisking continuously to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to preference.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving. Optional: garnish with additional cheese or fresh thyme.
Tips
- Choose a ripe, firm pear for the best texture and natural sweetness. Bartlett or Anjou varieties work wonderfully.
- Use freshly grated sharp cheddar for maximum flavor – pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup's smoothness.
- To prevent cheese from becoming grainy, add it off the heat and whisk gently and continuously while incorporating.
- For an extra luxurious texture, consider blending the soup with an immersion blender before adding cheese for a silkier consistency.
- If you want a more intense flavor, roast the onions and garlic before adding them to the soup for a deeper, caramelized taste.
- Experiment with garnishes like toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of cream, or fresh thyme leaves to elevate the presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 202kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 26mg
