CHEDDAR PEAR SOUP

Cheddar Pear Soup image

Pears and sharp cheddar have always been one of my favorite flavor combos. This recipe brings the two together in a creamy, delicious soup. I like to serve it with a warm baguette and fresh fruit for lunch or a light supper. -Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 50m

Yield 8 servings (2 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
5 cups chicken broth
3 medium ripe pears, peeled and chopped
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Fresh pear slices, optional

Steps:

In a Dutch oven, heat butter over medium-high heat; saute onion and garlic until tender, 7-9 minutes. Stir in flour and paprika until blended; cook and stir 2 minutes. Gradually stir in broth. Add chopped pears; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until pears are tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally., Puree soup using an immersion blender or cool slightly and puree soup in batches in a blender; return to pan. Add cheese and pepper; cook and stir over low heat until cheese is melted, 3-5 minutes. If desired, top with pear slices.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 299 calories, Fat 20g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 60mg cholesterol, Sodium 938mg sodium, Carbohydrate 18g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 12g protein.