WW 1 Point Cheese Soup: A Hug in a Bowl

There are some dishes that just feel like a warm embrace, and for me, this WW 1 Point Cheese Soup is one of them. I remember being a young cook, just starting to navigate the world of lighter cooking and portion control, and feeling a pang of longing for comforting, cheesy goodness. This soup, with its surprisingly simple ingredients and incredibly satisfying result, became my secret weapon. It was a way to enjoy that familiar, creamy, cheese-laden comfort without derailing my efforts. More than just a recipe, it’s a reminder that delicious, soulful food can be both accessible and mindful, proving that a hug in a bowl doesn’t need to be complicated.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Yield: 10 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be made vegan with broth substitution)

Ingredients

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on pantry staples and a few key players to achieve its creamy, cheesy magic.

• 2 lbs California-blend frozen vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots) – This blend provides a fantastic base of texture and flavor. You can also use your favorite combination of frozen vegetables.
• 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth (regular or fat-free) – Feel free to substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. If aiming for vegan, ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
• 1 (15-ounce) can Rotel Tomatoes (or Italian tomatoes) – Rotel, with its diced tomatoes and green chilies, adds a subtle kick and depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, regular diced tomatoes are a good alternative.
• 10 ounces Velveeta reduced-fat cheese product – This is the key to the soup’s signature creamy, smooth texture and mild, approachable cheese flavor. It melts beautifully without becoming oily.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need anything fancy for this comforting soup.

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Stirring spoon or ladle

Instructions

Crafting this delightful cheese soup is a breeze, perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend. The process is designed for maximum flavor extraction with minimal fuss.

1. Begin by combining the frozen vegetables, chicken broth, and Rotel Tomatoes in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. This is where the magic starts to unfold, with the vegetables beginning to soften and the broth infusing with their flavors.
2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. This initial boil helps to kickstart the cooking process for the frozen vegetables and meld the initial flavors.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup gently for 45 minutes. This extended simmer is crucial. It allows the frozen vegetables to become tender without becoming mushy, and the Rotel Tomatoes to break down slightly, contributing their juices and subtle spice to the broth. The low and slow simmer also ensures that the flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
4. After 45 minutes of simmering, the vegetables should be tender. Now, it’s time for the star ingredient: the Velveeta reduced-fat cheese product. Add the 10 ounces of Velveeta directly to the simmering soup.
5. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup has achieved a smooth, creamy, and homogeneous consistency. This usually takes a few minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to ensure no clumps of cheese remain and that the soup is uniformly luscious.
6. Once the cheese is fully incorporated and the soup is beautifully creamy, your WW 1 Point Cheese Soup is ready to serve. The recipe yields approximately 10 cups of this comforting goodness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I’ve learned that even the simplest recipes can be elevated with a few thoughtful touches. While this soup is already delightful in its simplicity, here are a few suggestions to make it even better:

• Vegetable Customization: While the California blend is a classic for a reason, don’t be afraid to experiment. You can swap in frozen peas, corn, or even spinach during the last 10 minutes of simmering for added color and nutrients. Just ensure they are cooked through.
• Broth Power: If you’re using regular chicken broth and are concerned about sodium, consider using a reduced-sodium variety. Alternatively, a good quality vegetable broth will add its own subtle earthy notes and keep the soup vegetarian.
• The Art of the Melt: When adding the Velveeta, it’s important to ensure your heat is low enough that the cheese melts smoothly without scorching. Stirring constantly is key to preventing the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Aromatics for Depth: For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing a finely minced onion or a clove of garlic in a teaspoon of olive oil before adding the vegetables and broth. This simple step adds a wonderful aromatic foundation.
• Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables against the side of the pot with your spoon before adding the cheese. Alternatively, if the soup becomes too thick for your liking, you can stir in a little extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This WW 1 Point Cheese Soup is incredibly versatile, shining brightly on its own or as a delightful accompaniment.

Serving: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For a touch of elegance and added flavor, consider garnishes such as a sprinkle of fresh chives, a dash of black pepper, or a very small dollop of reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. It’s wonderful served with a side of crusty whole-wheat bread for dipping.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it has thickened. This soup is also freezer-friendly; store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that this can vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	89 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	3.7 g	5%
Saturated Fat	2.2 g	11%
Cholesterol	11.8 mg	3%
Sodium	1006.6 mg	41%
Total Carbohydrate	5.3 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	2.8 g	11%
Protein	8.4 g	16%

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is wonderfully satisfying, you can certainly put your own spin on this delightful cheese soup.

• Spicier Kick: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider using Rotel diced tomatoes with hot green chilies, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup during the simmering stage.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh or dried herbs can add a lovely dimension. Stir in some dried Italian seasoning, a bay leaf during simmering, or a handful of fresh parsley or chives at the end for a burst of freshness.
• Cheesy Variety: While Velveeta is key to the point system and creamy texture, you could experiment with melting in a small amount of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese along with the Velveeta for a more complex cheese flavor. Just be mindful of the point adjustments if you do.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Swap: As mentioned, swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth makes this soup vegetarian. To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and explore dairy-free cheese alternatives designed for melting. The texture may vary slightly, but it can still yield a delicious result.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! If using fresh vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces and cook them in the broth until tender before adding the tomatoes and cheese. You may need to adjust the simmering time accordingly.

Q: How can I make this soup thicker?
A: To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables against the side of the pot with a spoon before adding the cheese, or you can create a slurry with 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.

Q: Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?
A: Yes, this soup is excellent for meal prepping. It stores and reheats well, making it a convenient option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Q: Can I add other proteins to this soup?
A: While not part of the original recipe, you could certainly add cooked shredded chicken or turkey during the last few minutes of simmering to make it a more substantial meal.

Q: What is the “WW” in WW 1 Point Cheese Soup?
A: “WW” refers to Weight Watchers, a program that assigns points to foods based on their nutritional content. This soup is formulated to be low in points, making it a satisfying choice for those following the WW program.

Final Thoughts

This WW 1 Point Cheese Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that comfort food can be smart food. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction to meet your dietary goals. Whether you’re a long-time follower of the WW program or simply looking for a warm, comforting, and budget-friendly soup, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this a try. It’s a dish that fills the belly and warms the soul, and I’m certain it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!