Cheeseburger Soup

The Cheeseburger Soup combines all the iconic flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. With ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy Velveeta, and a tangy touch of sour cream, it’s everything you love about burgers in a spoon-worthy form. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a dose of comfort food, this soup is easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s versatile, too, allowing you to customize toppings and mix-ins to suit your family’s taste. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for an irresistible meal!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1⁄2 pound ground beef
  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 3⁄4 cup carrots, diced
  • 3⁄4 cup celery, diced
  • 3⁄4 cup onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 4 cups potatoes, diced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 to 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 1⁄2 cups whole milk
  • 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄4 to 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1⁄4 cup sour cream
  • Optional toppings: onion rings, green onions, and crumbled bacon

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or until no longer pink. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same pot. Add carrots, celery, onions, dried basil, and dried parsley. Sauté for about 10 minutes until tender.
  3. Add the potatoes, cooked ground beef, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  4. In a separate pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously, until it begins to bubble.
  5. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the soup and bring it to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Velveeta cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.
  8. Serve warm, topped with onion rings, green onions, and bacon if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is a delightful fusion of two crowd-pleasing favorites: the hearty, savory flavors of a cheeseburger and the comforting warmth of a bowl of soup. This dish brings together the best elements of a classic cheeseburger juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and all the familiar seasonings into a creamy, spoonable form that’s perfect for any time of year, especially during chilly weather.

What makes cheeseburger soup so special is its versatility. It can be tailored to suit a variety of dietary preferences and creative tastes while still delivering the satisfying essence of a cheeseburger. From its creamy base to its rich toppings, every bite is a comforting reminder of simpler times and the pleasure of home-cooked meals.

A Unique Mashup of Flavors

Cheeseburger soup captures the bold flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a whole new way. The ground beef provides a robust, savory foundation that’s complemented by a creamy broth enriched with Velveeta or your favorite cheese. Carrots, celery, and potatoes not only add nutritional value but also enhance the soup’s texture and taste.

What sets this soup apart is its ability to evoke the essence of a cheeseburger without the bun. The familiar seasonings such as dried basil and parsley mimic the herbs and spices often found in burger patties. The inclusion of sour cream adds a tangy twist, reminiscent of a dollop of mayonnaise or a slice of sharp cheddar. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you to a backyard barbecue, even if you’re enjoying it indoors.

Why Cheeseburger Soup is a Must-Try Dish

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly practical. Its one-pot preparation means less cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The ingredients are simple and often pantry staples, which means you can whip up a pot of this comforting soup without an elaborate shopping list.

Another reason to try cheeseburger soup is its adaptability. Want to make it healthier? Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Looking to accommodate a vegetarian diet? Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth. For a low-carb version, swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets or diced zucchini. Cheeseburger soup is a canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.

Toppings and Serving Suggestions

One of the joys of cheeseburger soup is the opportunity to customize it with a variety of toppings. Just as every burger is better with its unique toppings, this soup can be enhanced with crispy bacon, crunchy onion rings, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. A dollop of sour cream or a handful of freshly chopped green onions can elevate its visual appeal and taste.

For an extra crunch, serve the soup with toasted croutons made from burger buns. This nod to the dish’s origins as a cheeseburger makes it even more fun and interactive. Pair the soup with a side of garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or simply enjoy it on its own.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Cheeseburger soup is a true crowd-pleaser. Its rich and creamy texture makes it an ideal comfort food for cold winter nights, but it’s equally enjoyable during any season. Serve it as a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or even as a starter for a larger meal. It’s also a great option for potlucks and family gatherings, as it can be easily doubled to feed a larger group.

One of the soup’s biggest advantages is its make-ahead potential. It stores well in the refrigerator and even in the freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping. Reheating a bowl of this soup is like revisiting a culinary hug, ensuring that you always have a comforting option at hand.

Health Benefits and Customization

While cheeseburger soup may sound indulgent, it can also be quite nutritious. Packed with protein from the beef and plenty of vitamins from the carrots, celery, and potatoes, it’s a well-rounded dish that can be further enhanced with healthy swaps. Use whole milk or a plant-based alternative to control the fat content, and opt for reduced-fat cheese if you prefer a lighter version.

For those looking to increase the soup’s nutritional value, consider adding more vegetables. Chopped spinach, peas, or corn can be stirred in during the final stages of cooking for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients. You can also play around with the type of cheese used sharp cheddar adds a bolder flavor, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier taste.

A Family-Friendly Favorite

One of the reasons cheeseburger soup has become a household staple is its universal appeal. Kids love it because it tastes like their favorite burger, while adults appreciate its heartiness and depth of flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters, as the creamy texture and cheesy goodness mask the presence of the carrots, celery, and potatoes.

This soup also invites family members to get involved in the kitchen. Children can help with simple tasks like washing vegetables or adding cheese to the pot. Cooking together not only makes the preparation process more enjoyable but also creates lasting memories around a shared love for food.

A Dish That Tells a Story

Cheeseburger soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a story in a bowl. It brings together the nostalgia of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting qualities of soup, creating a dish that’s both familiar and innovative. Every bite is a reminder of cherished moments whether it’s backyard barbecues, cozy family dinners, or simple meals shared with loved ones.

As food trends continue to evolve, cheeseburger soup stands out as a timeless recipe that bridges the gap between tradition and creativity. Its adaptability ensures it will remain a favorite for generations to come.

Conclusion:

Cheeseburger soup is a delicious testament to the magic of combining flavors and traditions. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for hearty comfort food while offering endless opportunities for customization. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night or serving it at a family gathering, this soup promises to warm hearts and fill stomachs.

Easy to make, universally loved, and endlessly adaptable, cheeseburger soup is a recipe worth keeping in your culinary repertoire. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience one that reminds us of the joy and connection that food can bring. Try it for yourself and see why this cozy bowl of goodness has earned its place at the table.

Leave a Comment