The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
If you're on the hunt for a dish that marries the comfort of a cheeseburger with the coziness of soup, you've come to the right place. This cheeseburger soup recipe will guide you through crafting a bowl of deliciousness with ground beef, sharp cheddar, and fresh vegetables like onions and carrots. You'll start by browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, setting the stage for the creamy finish. But there's a secret step that truly sets this recipe apart, ensuring each spoonful is unforgettable. Curious about the missing ingredient that elevates this dish? Let's explore further.
Recipe
Cheeseburger soup is a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger, bringing all its comforting flavors into a warm, hearty bowl. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. By combining ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and a medley of vegetables, you can create a dish that's both nutritious and full of flavor.
The creamy texture of the soup pairs perfectly with the robust taste of the beef and the cheese, making each spoonful a delectable experience.
This recipe is straightforward, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The key to a great cheeseburger soup lies in achieving the right balance of flavors and textures. Incorporating vegetables like potatoes and carrots adds depth and nutrition, while herbs and spices enhance the savory profile.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this cheeseburger soup recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
To prepare the cheeseburger soup, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they're softened. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Return the cooked beef to the pot, pour in the milk, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and the soup is smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
For best results, use sharp cheddar cheese to give the soup a bold flavor. You can experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour in the roux or reduce the broth slightly. This soup can also be made ahead of time and reheated, making it convenient for meal prep.
Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Enjoy your homemade cheeseburger soup!
Cooking Steps
Let's get cooking and transform those cheeseburger flavors into a cozy soup!
First, brown the beef in a large pot, and once it's cooked, set it aside so you can sauté the veggies until they're beautifully softened.
Next, sprinkle flour over those veggies, stir to create a roux, then add the potatoes and broth, letting them simmer until tender before you mix in the beef, milk, and cheese for that creamy, cheesy finish.
Step 1. Brown Beef in Large Pot
The foundation of flavor begins with browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step's essential because it adds depth and richness to your soup.
Grab your trusty wooden spoon, and break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring even browning. You'll know it's ready when it turns a lovely shade of brown and fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Don't rush it—let the beef develop its delicious crust. Once browned, carefully drain the excess fat using a spoon or tilt the pot and use a paper towel. This keeps your soup from becoming greasy.
Now, set the beef aside, but resist the urge to snack on it—there's more deliciousness to come!
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables Until Softened
With the ground beef browned and set aside, turn your attention to the vegetables. Melt some butter in the same pot over medium heat, enjoying the sizzle as the butter hits the hot surface.
Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery, letting them mingle and get to know each other. Stir occasionally, coaxing them to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
You'll know they're ready when the onions are translucent and the carrots are tender but not mushy. This step builds a flavor foundation, adding depth to your soup.
Don't rush—give these veggies the time they need to shine. Remember, patience is a virtue, especially in the kitchen. Plus, it gives you time to perfect your stirring dance moves!
Step 3. Add Flour, Create Roux
Almost effortlessly, you'll shift to creating a roux once your vegetables are perfectly softened. Grab your trusty flour, and sprinkle it over the veggie medley. Stir with the flair of a master chef, ensuring every bit of flour mingles with the butter and veggies.
It might feel like you're conducting a culinary symphony, but really, you're just making the magic happen. Keep stirring; this isn't the time to let distractions take over! You're aiming for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
The secret here? Patience and a touch of confidence. As the flour cooks, you'll notice a nutty aroma wafting up—a sure sign you're on the right track. This roux will be the backbone of your cheeseburger soup, adding richness and depth.
Step 4. Simmer Potatoes Until Tender
Into the bubbling pot, gently place your diced potatoes, letting them join the medley of softened vegetables and savory broth. As they settle in, give everything a good stir, just like mixing a salad, but with a lot more warmth.
Now, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let the magic happen. It's like a spa day for those potatoes, as they soak up all the flavors, softening up beautifully.
Keep an eye on them, though—nobody likes a mushy potato. Aim for that perfect tenderness where a fork slides in effortlessly. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on their size.
Use this time to tidy up or sneak a cheesy dance in the kitchen. Remember, patience makes the soup all the more delicious!
Step 5. Add Beef, Milk, Cheese
As the potatoes reach the perfect tenderness, it's time to reintroduce the cooked ground beef into the pot. Gently stir it in, letting all those wonderful flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Next, pour in the milk, stirring slowly to keep everything creamy and smooth—kind of like mixing a milkshake, but, you know, soupier.
Now, for the star of the show: the shredded cheddar cheese. Add it gradually, stirring continuously until it melts into gooey perfection. It's like watching a magic trick, turning your soup into a cheesy wonderland.
Don't forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste, adjust, and enjoy that rich, cheesy aroma filling your kitchen. You've got yourself a masterpiece!
Final Thoughts
Cheeseburger soup offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, seamlessly blending comfort and flavor into one satisfying dish.
If you've ever craved a cheeseburger but wanted the warmth of soup, this recipe's your answer. It's not just a meal; it's an experience, perfect for cozy nights in.
You can adjust the ingredients to your taste, maybe swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness. Don't be shy about adding more cheese—there's never such a thing as too cheesy, right?
And, if you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits for extra savoriness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef in Cheeseburger Soup?
You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in cheeseburger soup. It'll create a lighter version while still delivering great flavor. Just season it well to match beef's richness, and adjust cooking time as needed. Enjoy!
How Can I Make Cheeseburger Soup Gluten-Free?
To make cheeseburger soup gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Confirm your chicken broth is gluten-free, and you're ready to enjoy a comforting, gluten-free version of this delicious soup.
What Are Some Vegetarian Alternatives for Cheeseburger Soup?
To make a vegetarian cheeseburger soup, swap ground beef with black beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms for umami flavor and choose a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for creaminess.
How Long Can I Store Cheeseburger Soup in the Refrigerator?
You can store cheeseburger soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Confirm it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to eat, reheat it on the stove for best results.
Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Soup for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze cheeseburger soup for later use. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and reheat it on the stove.
