Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl of goodness. This delightful soup combines ground beef, melty cheese, and all the classic burger toppings into one easy-to-make dish, perfect for chilly days or any time you crave the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This cheeseburger soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The robust flavors of ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic vegetables come together seamlessly, creating a dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. It’s a comforting meal that fits well with a family-friendly lifestyle, offering a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the fuss of grilling. Plus, it can easily be tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your cheeseburger soup, consider browning the ground beef with a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for added depth of flavor. If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before adding in the cheese. For a quicker prep, chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. Lastly, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ground beef and vegetables a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. The soup can also be made in advance and stored for up to three days. Just be sure to wait to add the cheese until you’re ready to serve, as it can change texture when reheated. If you want to freeze leftovers, do so without the cheese, and add it when reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your cheeseburger soup by swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. You can also mix up the cheese by using pepper jack for a spicier kick or adding in crumbled blue cheese for a gourmet twist. For additional flavor, experiment with different seasonings like Worcestershire sauce or mustard.
How to Serve
Serve your cheeseburger soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or fresh parsley for a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top adds a delicious finishing touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad to complete your meal, making it not just filling but also visually appealing.
Pairing Suggestions
This cheeseburger soup pairs beautifully with a cold, crisp lager or a light red wine like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving it with iced tea or a refreshing lemonade. As for sides, garlic bread or a fresh garden salad with a tangy dressing complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover cheeseburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers and it will last for about three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook the soup. An immersion blender can be handy if you prefer a smoother texture, but a regular blender works just as well. A cutting board and knife will be necessary for chopping your vegetables. If you don’t have an immersion blender, just ensure you let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this soup vegan, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat, and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy. For a dairy-free version, opt for non-dairy cheese and skip the sour cream. To ensure it is nut-free, check that the cheese and cream alternatives do not contain nuts, and adjust the recipe accordingly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider adding fresh produce like sweet corn or diced tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. In the fall, incorporating diced butternut squash can add a lovely sweetness. During winter months, use root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra warmth and heartiness.
Recipe FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef? Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives work well.
How long does the soup take to cook? The total cooking time is about 30-40 minutes.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes! Frozen vegetables can be used, but they may not provide the same texture as fresh.
How do I thicken the soup? You can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) to thicken the soup.
How To Make cheeseburger soup recipe
Cheeseburger Soup
Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl of goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, crispy bacon, green onions, parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 398Total Fat 22gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 93mgSodium 989mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 31g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Cheeseburger soup is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic burger in a comforting and hearty form. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. With its versatility and ease of preparation, you can make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and toppings. So grab your pot and start cooking this deliciously creamy soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
