Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Introduction
Cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, hearty flavors of a cheeseburger with the warmth of a creamy soup. Perfect for cold days or when you’re just in the mood for something savory and filling, this recipe is a must-try for any soup lover. Packed with ground beef, cheddar cheese, and tender vegetables, every spoonful tastes like your favorite burger in a bowl.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
The ingredients needed for this cheeseburger soup are simple and easy to find in most kitchens, making it both a convenient and satisfying dish to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for the best results
Onion: Finely diced for added flavor
Carrots: Grated or thinly sliced to add a hint of sweetness
Celery: Chopped to provide a subtle crunch that complements the soup
Potatoes: Diced into bite-sized pieces for heartiness
All-purpose flour: To thicken the soup
Chicken broth: For a flavorful liquid base
Whole milk: To make the soup creamy and smooth
Shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra cheesy kick
Butter and oil: For sautéing and flavor
Salt and pepper: To season the soup to perfection
Prep Time
Preparing this cheeseburger soup takes minimal effort, making it a quick and satisfying meal. From chopping vegetables to cooking the ground beef, expect about 15-20 minutes of prep work before everything starts to come together.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this hearty soup is around 30-40 minutes, depending on how tender you’d like your potatoes to be. Combined with prep work, the total time to bring this delicious dish to your table is roughly 50-60 minutes. This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, making it perfect to feed a family or save some leftovers for later.
There you have it—a warm bowl of cheeseburger soup that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, now in soup form, made simple with this easy-to-follow recipe!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease and set the cooked beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Seasonings
Season the soup with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard. Stir well to combine the flavors evenly.
Step 5: Create the Cheese Mixture
In a separate small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked ground beef back into the soup pot. Pour the cheese mixture into the soup and stir to combine well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the ingredients are heated through and well incorporated.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cheeseburger soup hot in bowls. Garnish with optional toppings like crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheese, or chopped green onions as desired.
Notes
Adjustment for Thickness
If the soup feels too thick, you can add more chicken broth or cream to adjust it to your preferred consistency.
Substitute for Heavy Cream
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
Additional Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Adding paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the soup an extra kick.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.
Freezing Tips
The soup can be frozen, but it’s best to store it without the cheese mixture. Add the cheese mixture when reheating to maintain the best texture.
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Cook Techniques
How to Properly Brown Ground Beef
To achieve the perfect flavor and texture for your Cheeseburger Soup, take your time to brown the ground beef evenly over medium heat. Stir occasionally, breaking it into smaller pieces until it’s no longer pink.
Sautéing Vegetables for Maximum Flavor
Cook the diced vegetables in butter to enhance their flavor and ensure they soften properly. This step is key to creating a rich and flavorful soup base.
Creating a Smooth Cheese Sauce
Add cheese gradually and stir constantly to create a velvety and smooth texture. Ensure the soup is not boiling when adding the cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate.
Layering Ingredients Appropriately
Start with aromatics such as onions and garlic, followed by adding broth, cooked ground beef, and other ingredients. Layering components in the right order ensures even cooking and blends the flavors seamlessly.
FAQ
What type of ground beef is best for Cheeseburger Soup?
Using lean ground beef is recommended to prevent excess grease while still providing enough flavor for the soup.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s best to shred your cheese at home because pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-clumping agents that may affect the texture of the soup.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop. Consider adding a little extra broth or cream if it thickens.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, to thicken the soup.
Can I substitute the chicken broth with another liquid?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, but be aware it will slightly alter the flavor.
What toppings work best for Cheeseburger Soup?
Toppings such as crispy bacon pieces, diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, or a dollop of sour cream work great to enhance the flavor and add texture to the soup.
Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Cheeseburger Soup. However, note that the texture of the soup may change slightly upon reheating due to the dairy content. Consider excluding the cheese during freezing and adding it when reheating.
Conclusion
The Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings all the hearty goodness of a cheeseburger, transformed into a warm bowl of soup. It’s perfect for cozy dinner nights and offers a satisfying way to enjoy classic cheeseburger flavors in a unique combination. This soup is easy to make and versatile, making it a delightful recipe to add to your meal roster.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Tomato Basil Soup and Grilled Cheese
Pair this creamy Cheeseburger Soup with a comforting tomato basil soup and a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate soup night combination.
Loaded Potato Soup
Enjoy the richness of Cheeseburger Soup alongside a hearty loaded potato soup to keep you warm and full throughout the meal.
Crispy Garlic Bread
Serve your Cheeseburger Soup with crispy garlic bread to add an extra layer of texture and flavor to your dish.
Caesar Salad
Combine this soup with a fresh Caesar salad for a balanced meal that includes something light and refreshing alongside the creamy richness.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
For a fun and flavorful side, pair the soup with bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers for a spicy kick to balance the creamy cheeseburger flavors.
Macaroni and Cheese
Pair with classic macaroni and cheese for an indulgent and satisfying dinner spread.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Complement the cheeseburger flavor with the natural sweetness of baked sweet potato fries for a healthier yet delicious side option.
