I still remember the first time I came across cheeseburger soup. It was a chilly evening, and my friend had invited me over for dinner. As the aroma wafted through her kitchen, my stomach started growling louder with each passing minute.
When I finally sat down to that inviting bowl, I realized I was in for a treat. The creamy texture, the flavors of beef and cheese, and the hints of herbs all blended together perfectly.
Who would’ve thought a soup could mimic a cheeseburger so well? That night ignited a passion in me for this heartwarming dish.
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What is Cheeseburger Soup?
Cheeseburger soup brings together the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger—think juicy beef, gooey cheese, fresh vegetables, and spices—all in a comforting, creamy broth.
It’s a one-pot meal that satisfies both the taste buds and hunger pangs without the fuss of grilling or assembling a burger. Isn’t that a win-win?
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; you can play with the ingredients, making it your own while still capturing the essence of the classic cheeseburger.
Why You’ll Love this Cheeseburger Soup
The first thing that hits you about cheeseburger soup is its delightful taste. It’s rich and hearty, truly deserving of a spot on your regular dinner rotation.
The creaminess envelops the ground beef, while the veggies add a vibrant texture. Plus, it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for both cozy nights in and gatherings with friends.
Here are a few reasons why this soup steals the show:
1. Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
2. Kid-Friendly: The flavors are appealing to children, making it a hassle-free dinner option that they’ll actually enjoy.
3. Make-Ahead Meal: It stores well in the fridge, which means you can prep it ahead and reheat when needed.
4. Flexibility: Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or focused on healthy eating, you can easily modify the recipe to suit your needs.
5. Conversation Starter: This dish is unique enough to spark interesting discussions around the dinner table.
The Ingredients
To create this delightful cheeseburger soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¾ cup grated carrots
- ¾ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- ¾ cup chopped celery stalks
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup plain all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup full-fat sour cream
Let’s take a deeper look at these ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in making this soup flavorful and satisfying. The russet potatoes provide heartiness, while the ground beef adds richness. The vegetables contribute freshness and texture. And the combination of cheeses makes everything melt together into creamy perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let me walk you through the process of making this cheeseburger soup.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Once peeled, chop them into cubes. Next, finely chop the onion and celery, and grate the carrots. This prep work is crucial as it allows the vegetables to cook evenly and blend into the soup seamlessly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Allow it to brown nicely, about 5-7 minutes. It’s essential to drain any excess fat at this point. Nobody wants a greasy soup!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
To the browned beef, toss in the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this stage is already enough to put a smile on your face. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t stick.
Step 4: Add the Potatoes
Now, add your cubed potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Make the Roux
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. This roux will help thicken your soup. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Then, pour this mixture into the pot with beef and potatoes.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes slowly, letting them melt into the soup. The result will be a creamy, cheesy delight.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, add in the dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sour cream. Give everything a good stir. Taste the soup and adjust your seasonings as desired. Once you’ve achieved the perfect balance of flavors, it’s time to serve up this delicious bowl of joy!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some tried-and-true tips to make your cheeseburger soup even better:
- Use High-Quality Beef: The better the beef, the more flavor it will impart. Look for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: This step is vital for that creamy texture. Whisking it well prevents any lumps.
- Adjust the Cheese: While Velveeta provides a smooth melt, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for deeper flavor.
- Add Greens: For an added nutritional boost, toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Customize: Don’t hesitate to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or bell peppers work beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Cheeseburger Soup Nutrition Facts
Can I Store Cheeseburger Soup?
Absolutely! Cheeseburger soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat over low heat on the stove to maintain its creamy texture.
What Can I Serve with Cheeseburger Soup?
When it comes to accompaniments, the options are vast. Here are several ideas:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or French bread pairs perfectly for dipping.
- Salad: A light garden salad can balance the rich flavors of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Why not double down on comfort food with a classic grilled cheese?
- Crackers: Serve with crunchy crackers for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Pickles: A side of pickles adds that tangy touch to complement your meal.
Variations
The beauty of cheeseburger soup lies in its versatility. Here are some delightful variations worth trying:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Crumble crispy bacon into the mix for that smoky flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salt!
- Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives to enjoy a meat-free version.
- Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Top with crispy onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of guacamole for a luxurious finish.
- Italian Cheeseburger Soup: Incorporate Italian sausage and a can of diced tomatoes for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- pot
Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¾ cup grated carrots
- ¾ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- ¾ cup chopped celery stalks
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese cut into cubes
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup plain all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup full-fat sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Start by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Once peeled, chop them into cubes. Next, finely chop the onion and celery, and grate the carrots. This prep work is crucial as it allows the vegetables to cook evenly and blend into the soup seamlessly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Allow it to brown nicely, about 5-7 minutes. It’s essential to drain any excess fat at this point. Nobody wants a greasy soup!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- To the browned beef, toss in the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this stage is already enough to put a smile on your face. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t stick.
Step 4: Add the Potatoes
- Now, add your cubed potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Make the Roux
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. This roux will help thicken your soup. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Then, pour this mixture into the pot with beef and potatoes.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
- This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes slowly, letting them melt into the soup. The result will be a creamy, cheesy delight.
Step 7: Season and Serve
- Finally, add in the dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sour cream. Give everything a good stir. Taste the soup and adjust your seasonings as desired. Once you’ve achieved the perfect balance of flavors, it’s time to serve up this delicious bowl of joy!
Notes
- Use High-Quality Beef: The better the beef, the more flavor it will impart. Look for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: This step is vital for that creamy texture. Whisking it well prevents any lumps.
- Adjust the Cheese: While Velveeta provides a smooth melt, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for deeper flavor.
- Add Greens: For an added nutritional boost, toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Customize: Don’t hesitate to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or bell peppers work beautifully.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Let the soup cool down completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta provides that smooth, creamy texture, you can explore different cheeses as well. Cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack can add unique flavors. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well.
3. Is cheeseburger soup keto-friendly?
To make this soup keto-friendly, focus on reducing the potatoes or swap them out for cauliflower. This will lower the carb content while still maintaining a filling and creamy consistency.
4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute regular milk with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep that creamy texture. Ensure your sour cream has a dairy-free option as well.
5. Can I add beans to this soup?
Adding beans like kidney beans or black beans can enhance the nutritional profile and provide a delicious twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to account for the extra ingredients.
Conclusion
In my kitchen, cheeseburger soup has truly become a staple. It combines comfort, taste, and ease in one delightful bowl.
I love the versatility it offers, allowing me to cater to everyone’s preferences, whether they crave a classic flavor or seek something a bit different.
So, as the temperature cools down and the days get shorter, consider adding this delightful recipe to your meal plan.
You’ll not only warm up your kitchen but also your hearts and bellies. Here’s to happiness in a bowl—enjoy!
