Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you have to try this Cheeseburger Soup! This creamy one-pot dish is like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something satisfying without all the fuss. With its blend of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and rich cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s not just delicious; it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it can be prepared in about 35 minutes—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This Cheeseburger Soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will delight in this creamy soup packed with familiar flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can prep it ahead of time for effortless meals later on.
• Hearty and filling: Loaded with protein and veggies, this soup is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Cheeseburger Soup! Most of these items are pantry staples, so you won’t need a special trip to the store.

For the Soup Base

• 5 strips bacon (chopped)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 pound Russet potatoes (about 2 large; peeled and diced)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheeseburger Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a creamy texture.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Begin by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, which takes about 10 minutes. If your pan gets too hot, don’t hesitate to lower the heat. Once crispy, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This step adds rich flavor that will enhance every bite of your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next up, add the ground beef to the same pot. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until no longer pink. Once cooked through, transfer it to a bowl and drain any excess fat. Browning the beef not only cooks it but also builds that delicious base flavor we want in our soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in that flavorful pot! Then toss in your onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté them for around 4-5 minutes until softened. The aroma will be amazing! Adding these veggies brings freshness and nutrition to our hearty soup.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds. Garlic adds depth and warmth to our dish—don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously until it’s well mixed throughout. This helps thicken our soup later on!

Step 6: Whisk Together Broth & Cream

Gradually whisk in chicken broth until combined smoothly. Then add heavy cream along with mustard, diced potatoes, and browned beef back into the pot. Increase heat until boiling; then reduce to medium-low. Cover partially and simmer for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Stir In Cheese & Lemon Juice

Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese along with fresh lemon juice. If your soup seems too thick, feel free to add more broth or cream as needed for your desired consistency.

Step 8: Season & Serve

Finally, season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Ladle generous portions into bowls and top each serving with those crispy bacon bits we set aside earlier. Enjoy every warm spoonful of this comforting Cheeseburger Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Cheeseburger Soup

Making cheeseburger soup is a delightful way to bring comfort food to your table, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it’s even more delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making each bite more satisfying.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you can customize it to your liking!
• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an exciting twist. Different cheeses offer varied flavors that can elevate your soup experience.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
• Save some toppings: Reserve a bit of cooked bacon and extra cheese for garnishing each bowl before serving. This adds a nice visual appeal and an extra crunch to every spoonful!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

When it comes to serving cheeseburger soup, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make your meal both appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
• Sour cream or non-dairy alternative: A dollop gives a creamy contrast that balances the richness of the soup.
• Crushed tortilla chips: Sprinkle these on top for an enjoyable texture and added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping into the creamy soup while adding delightful garlicky flavor.
• Simple garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheeseburger soup.
• Steamed broccoli: This healthy side not only adds color to your plate but also complements the hearty nature of the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs wonderfully with this dish, and it’s great for soaking up every last drop of soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a heartwarming bowl of cheeseburger soup that will delight family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This cheeseburger soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, store the bacon separately to keep it crispy.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note: The texture may change slightly after freezing due to the cream.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup is too thick upon reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious cheeseburger soup!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in cheeseburger soup?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. It will still be flavorful and delicious.

How can I make cheeseburger soup healthier?

To create a healthier version of cheeseburger soup, consider using low-fat cream or substituting half of the cream with additional chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition!

What toppings go well with cheeseburger soup?

Some tasty toppings include crispy bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, or even croutons for some crunch! Feel free to get creative!

Can I make cheeseburger soup without potatoes?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the potatoes or replace them with other vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this scrumptious cheeseburger soup as much as I do! It’s truly comforting and satisfying – perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!