Cheeseburger soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, combining the savory goodness of a cheeseburger with the comforting creaminess of soup. Picture this: rich beef, gooey cheese, and the aroma of sautéed onions wafting through your kitchen, making even the grumpiest family member crack a smile.
This delightful dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty yet easy to whip up. Imagine serving it at your next family gathering or cozy night in, where laughter and good food unite. The anticipation builds as you savor every spoonful, transforming an ordinary meal into a memorable experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory and cheesy goodness that pleases everyone
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this soup is sure to impress at any gathering
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or sides, it adapts to your cravings effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made cheeseburger soup; my kids’ faces lit up like Christmas morning when they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor; it’s a critical base for this soup.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent and fragrant for the best results.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; choose firm cloves for maximum pungency.
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Carrots: Diced carrots add color and sweetness; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
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Potatoes: Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for creaminess; they hold up well during cooking.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while ensuring robust flavor.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings that classic cheeseburger taste; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
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Milk or Cream: Adds richness and creaminess; choose based on how indulgent you’re feeling today!
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Bacon Bits (optional): For those who want extra crunch and smoky flavor; who doesn’t love bacon?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Meat: Stir in diced carrots and potatoes along with ground beef. Cook until the meat browns completely, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Pour in Broth: Add beef broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Creaminess and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in milk or cream along with shredded cheddar cheese until melted, creating that luscious cheeseburger vibe.
Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and pepper as needed, tasting along the way. This step ensures you’ve got just the right balance of flavors.
Strongly encourage garnishing with optional bacon bits or fresh herbs before serving for added texture and zest!
Enjoy every warm spoonful of this delicious cheeseburger soup that will surely bring joy to your dining table!
You Must Know
- This cheeseburger soup is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting
- It’s a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights
- The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s cooking!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef and onions together before adding the broth and other ingredients. This builds flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or toss in some veggies like bell peppers or corn. Spice it up with jalapeños if you crave a kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality beef and fresh vegetables
- Don’t skip sautéing; it enhances the taste significantly
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream at the end!
Cooking cheeseburger soup always reminds me of that one cozy winter day when my friends claimed it was a ‘bowl of happiness.’
FAQ
Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a day in advance enhances the flavors and saves time on busy evenings.
Is there a vegetarian version of cheeseburger soup?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I thicken cheeseburger soup?
To thicken, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup while simmering until desired consistency is reached.
Cheeseburger Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Cheeseburger soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth of creamy soup. Perfect for chilly nights, this easy-to-make recipe will delight your family and friends, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable experience. With rich beef, gooey cheese, and colorful veggies, each spoonful offers a delightful blend of savory goodness. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as smiles light up around the table!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup bacon bits (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until golden brown.
- Stir in the diced carrots and potatoes along with the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned completely.
- Add the beef broth to the pot and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and stir in milk or cream along with shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with optional bacon bits before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, brown the ground beef with onions at the start. Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or using different types of cheese. To thicken soup, mix cornstarch with water and stir in during simmering.