Name: Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon (chopped); 1 large onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added); 1 cup milk (2% fat); 8 ounce lager beer; 12 ounce cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, shredded); ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a warm bowl of soup after a chilly day, and this Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe hits all the right notes. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon and a touch of lager—this soup is pure comfort in a bowl.

A large white pot filled with thick orange soup, showing a smooth texture with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. The soup has some light cream swirls and tiny chunks within it, and a silver ladle rests inside the pot on the right side. Behind the pot, there is a glass jar filled with golden beer and a container holding toasted bread slices. The setting is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can’t get enough of this soup—every time I make it, friends and family end up asking for seconds. The blend of crispy bacon with smooth cheddar and that subtle beer flavor makes it a unique twist on classic comfort food.

Easy to Make: A straightforward stovetop recipe that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight dinner.
Rich and Creamy: Sharp cheddar meets creamy milk and broth for a velvety texture you’ll love.
Flavorful Depth: The lager beer adds a subtle tang and complexity without overwhelming the soup.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 6 hearty servings, ideal for family or friends.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, it’s worth picking quality ingredients that really build the flavor layers of this soup. Keep your eyes out for a good sharp cheddar and a mild lager that won’t overpower the dish.

Flat lay of six crispy bacon slices, one large golden onion, three whole garlic cloves, a small white bowl of all-purpose flour, a small white bowl of clear chicken broth, a small white bowl of creamy 2% milk, a small white bowl filled with amber lager beer, a neat pile of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a small white bowl of fine white salt, a small white bowl of ground black pepper, and a few sprigs of fresh green parsley, all arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Bacon: The star of the show—crispy, smoky, and full of flavor that infuses the soup base.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened, balancing the richness of cheese and bacon.
Garlic: Just a hint to give the soup a lovely aromatic kick.
All-purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens the soup to the perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken broth: I recommend low sodium so you can control the salt level in the soup better.
Milk (2%): Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
Lager beer: A smooth, light beer that contributes subtle malty notes to round the flavors.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild depending on your preference, shredded for easy melting.
Salt & Pepper: To taste—essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Parsley: Freshly chopped to brighten and garnish the finished soup.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own! Whether you prefer a little extra heat, want to lighten it up, or add some seasonal flair, there are plenty of ways to tailor it to your taste.

Swap the Beer: I sometimes use a non-alcoholic beer or a light ale instead of lager to keep the flavor but reduce the alcohol content. The soup stays just as delicious and creamy!
Spice it Up: Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper gives the soup a warm, smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
Vegetarian Twist: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead. Add in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for depth and texture.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use a plant-based milk like oat or almond and a dairy-free cheese substitute. The roux thickens the soup nicely without sacrificing creaminess.
Extra Veggies: For a heartier bowl, throw in some diced potatoes or carrots during the simmering stage — it adds a little bite and stretches the meal further.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy yellow soup, garnished with small green herb pieces and a few small red bits. A golden toasted slice of bread is partly dipped on one side into the soup, standing upright in the bowl. There is a dark spoon placed inside the soup next to the bread slice. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a blurred white bowl and a jar of honey or syrup with a warm amber color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. It usually takes about 5 minutes for the bacon to get perfectly crisp and golden. You'll want to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn — once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Don’t toss that rendered fat; it’s gold for flavor in the next step!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Using the bacon fat left in the pot, add your chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent—this builds a great flavor base. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma here tells you the soup is really coming together!

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the onions and garlic. Keep stirring continuously for about 3 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a roux, which is essential to give your soup that luscious, thick texture.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, milk, and lager beer. It’s important to add the liquids slowly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. You’ll notice the soup thickening and developing a wonderful rich smell as the flavors blend together.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Bacon

Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. Continue simmering for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Then fold in most of the cooked bacon, saving a little for garnish. The cheese makes the soup creamy and indulgent, while the bacon brings that perfect salty crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle with the remaining crispy bacon and chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of your homemade Bacon Beer Cheese Soup!

Top Tip

Cooking a rich and creamy Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe is all about layering flavors and getting the right texture. These tips I've gathered through experience will help your soup turn out velvety smooth with that perfect cheesy, smoky punch every time.

Perfect Roux: Stir the flour into the onions and garlic continuously for a full 3 minutes before adding liquids. This step ensures your soup thickens beautifully without any raw flour taste.
Beer Choice Matters: I found a smooth lager beer is the best match for this soup because it adds depth without overpowering the cheese. Feel free to try a non-alcoholic or light beer if you prefer.
Add Cheese Slowly: Stir in shredded cheddar gradually over low heat and keep it simmering for at least 5 minutes. This prevents clumping and gives you that silky mouthfeel.
Avoid Overcooking Bacon: Cook bacon just until crisp but avoid burning it. Adding overly browned bacon can make the soup bitter, so keep an eye on it during those 5 minutes.

How to Serve Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe

The image shows a white pan on a white marbled surface with many small cubes of light and dark pink bacon evenly spread inside. The bacon cubes have a slightly shiny texture and look like they are just starting to cook. The pan has a simple black edge and the light reflects softly on the bacon pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Bacon Beer Cheese Soup recipe look as good as it tastes, I love topping it with the remaining crispy bacon for that irresistible crunch. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness. If you're feeling indulgent, add a dollop of sour cream or a few sliced green onions for extra creaminess and zing.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm soft pretzels — perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, and roasted vegetables make a lovely side to keep the meal hearty but fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store your leftover Bacon Beer Cheese Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's a great friend to busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the soup for longer storage—up to 3 months is ideal—just remember one important thing: don’t add the shredded cheese until you’re ready to reheat and serve. This helps prevent separation and keeps your soup creamy and delicious.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. If you froze your soup without cheese, add the shredded cheddar toward the end and let it melt slowly. This method keeps your Bacon Beer Cheese Soup recipe tasting fresh and silky.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Sharp or mild cheddar works best for that classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.

What if I don’t drink beer – can I omit it or replace it?

You can substitute the lager beer with a non-alcoholic beer or even more chicken broth. The beer adds depth and subtle bitterness, but the soup will still be delicious without it.

How do I prevent the soup from separating when reheating?

To avoid separation, reheat gently over low to medium heat, stirring often. Adding the cheese gradually and not overheating helps maintain a creamy texture.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make the roux. This substitution will keep the soup thick and creamy without gluten.

Final Thoughts

Making this Bacon Beer Cheese Soup Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly day. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy cheddar, and smooth beer creates a comforting bowl that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, I hope this soup becomes one of your go-to recipes for comfort and joy.