This Cheeseburger Soup recipe takes all the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger and transforms them into a comforting, hearty soup. Imagine sinking your spoon into a creamy, cheesy broth filled with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and all your favorite burger toppings. This soup is perfect for a chilly evening or any time you’re craving a burger without the bun!
Why you will love this recipe:
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and refrigerator. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash – always a plus! The soup is also incredibly customizable. Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese, add different vegetables, or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce. But the best part? It tastes just like a cheeseburger in soup form, offering the ultimate comfort food experience. Kids and adults alike will devour this delicious and satisfying meal. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned, drain off any excess grease to prevent the soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Stir in the diced onions, shredded carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. This step helps to develop the flavors of the soup and adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork when they are fully cooked.
Step 4: While the soup is simmering, prepare the creamy sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help to thicken the soup. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce has thickened to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Pour the milk sauce into the soup pot and stir well to combine. Stir in the salt, dried basil, and black pepper. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the sour cream. The sour cream adds a touch of tanginess and richness to the soup. Mix well until the sour cream is fully incorporated.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Cheeseburger Soup hot, garnished with your favorite cheeseburger toppings. Some great options include:
- Chopped tomatoes
- Diced red onion
- Pickles
- Bacon bits
- A dollop of sour cream
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives
- Croutons for added crunch
This soup is also delicious served with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping.
Tips:
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese and sour cream. Be careful not to over-blend, as you want to retain some texture.
- To save time, you can use pre-shredded cheese and pre-diced vegetables.
- If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- To make the soup ahead of time, prepare it up to the point of adding the cheese and sour cream. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and stir in the cheese and sour cream.
- To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving Protein: 25-30 grams Sodium: 800-1000 mg
Conclusion:
This Cheeseburger Soup is a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and comforting warmth, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a taste of cheeseburger heaven in a bowl!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will provide a leaner option while still delivering a delicious savory flavor. Just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning the turkey.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to customize the soup to your liking. Some great additions would be diced bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, or even some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrients.
Q3: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this soup can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth and potatoes, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the milk sauce, cheese, and sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q4: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by substituting the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative, the milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheddar cheese alternative, and the sour cream with a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
Q5: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
