Monte Cristo Soup

Monte Cristo Soup captures all the delightful flavors of the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, but in an unexpected way. Imagine sitting down to a warm bowl that’s creamy and rich, with hints of sweet from raspberry preserves swirling through. It’s not just comforting; it’s a little adventure for your taste buds. As the chilly nights draw in, nothing feels quite as cozy as savoring a delicious bowl of soup. This recipe doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart too. You’re going to love how simple and satisfying it is. So grab your apron, and let’s whip up this unique version of Monte Cristo Soup together!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Monte Cristo Soup elegantly captures the essence of the classic sandwich. The combination of flavors here is both savory and sweet. You’ve got the rich taste of ham, tender turkey, and gooey cheese creating a deliciously hearty base. Plus, the raspberry preserves add a delightful contrast that excites your palate with every spoonful. This soup is truly a cozy, comforting option that feels just right on a chilly evening.

Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Soup

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. Instead, you can whip up a pot of Monte Cristo Soup in no time. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself. Every bite will remind you of those nostalgic flavors you love, reimagined in a cozy new way. Trust me, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
• Grilled cheese croutons, for garnish
• Raspberry preserves, warmed
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Perfect Monte Cristo Soup

Melting the Butter and Sautéing the Onion

Kick things off by melting 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Next, toss in the 1 large diced yellow onion. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent. The aroma of the sautéing onion is sure to whet your appetite!

Adding Garlic and Flour

Once the onions are softened, stir in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. This adds a wonderful depth to the flavor! After that, sprinkle in ½ cup of all-purpose flour over the onions. Mix it all up well and continue cooking for an additional minute to form a roux. This roux is the backbone of your soup’s texture.

Mixing in Broth and Seasonings

Now it’s time to gradually add in 4 cups of chicken broth along with 1 cup of whole milk. This combination creates a creamy base that’s hard to resist. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, then season with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Keep stirring until everything combines nicely.

Introducing Meats

Next, introduce the star players! Toss in 1 ½ cups of diced cooked ham and 1 ½ cups of diced cooked turkey. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients integrate perfectly. You’ll start to see how the flavors meld together beautifully.

Simmering to Thicken

Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir occasionally for about 15-20 minutes as it thickens up. You’ll want that hearty consistency that makes a soup so inviting.

Adding the Cheeses

Once the soup has thickened, stir in 1 cup each of shredded Swiss cheese and mild cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and your soup is rich and creamy. The addition of cheese brings a whole new level of comfort to this dish.

Serving the Soup

Ladle the soothing soup into bowls. Now, it’s time for the finishing touches! Top each bowl with grilled cheese croutons, drizzle warm raspberry preserves on top, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. This is what transforms a simple soup into a delightful masterpiece.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Monte Cristo Soup alongside a light salad or some crusty bread. The balance of sweet and savory pairs wonderfully with sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea. It’s a delightful way to elevate your dining experience.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cheeses are shredded; this makes melting a lot easier and smoother.
• If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more broth.
• Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to get that perfect flavor balance.

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. You can also add in sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. The options are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore its creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

A side of crispy potato wedges or a light fruit salad can enhance your meal even more. These quick sides complement the sweet-savory balance of the soup beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make Monte Cristo Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prepare the soup in advance. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve, and you’ll be good to go!

2. Can I freeze the soup?
It’s generally not recommended to freeze this soup due to the dairy content, as it may not reheat well.

3. What can I substitute for ham?
If you prefer a different flavor, smoked turkey or bacon works well as a substitute!

4. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
You can make this soup vegetarian by swapping out the meats for sautéed vegetables and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

5. Can I add more spices?
Absolutely! A dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can really elevate the flavors and add a wonderful kick.

Monte Cristo Soup is an undeniable crowd-pleaser. It brings together the familiarity of a beloved sandwich and the comfort of a warm bowl of soup. Enjoy making this delightful dish for any occasion, and watch as it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Print