I can’t express how much I adore a warm, comforting bowl of Bacon Cheeseburger Soup! Seriously, it’s like having a classic burger but in a cozy, soup form. The blend of flavors sends me right back to those summer BBQs when my friends and I would steal bites of each other’s burgers. When the weather turns chilly, there’s something incredibly satisfying about a creamy soup that embodies all the goodness of a cheeseburger. Plus, let’s be real: bacon makes everything better!
One cold evening last winter, I decided to whip up this delightful dish for a movie night with my family. Everyone was tired of the usual takeout, so I thought I’d surprise them with something homemade. The smell of sizzling bacon and onions wafting through the kitchen had everyone flocking to me like I was some sort of cooking wizard. By the end of the night, the soup bowl was empty, but our hearts and bellies were full. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to cook—sharing food with loved ones brings us all together!
What’s in Bacon Cheeseburger Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I always opt for lean ground beef to keep it healthier but still juicy and flavorful. Choose your favorite brand, but I often go for local grass-fed beef when I can.
Bacon: Bacon, bacon, bacon! This adds an incredible crunch and smoky flavor. I usually go for thick-cut bacon because… well, why not?
Onions: These beauties bring sweetness and depth to our soup. I prefer yellow onions for their balanced flavor.
Garlic: Just a touch of minced garlic gives this dish a savory punch that really ties everything together. Fresh garlic is the way to go!
Carrots: Diced carrots offer a bit of sweetness and a nice textural contrast to the creaminess. Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get some veggies in.
Potatoes: Chunky potatoes make the soup hearty. I like using Yukon Gold because they’re creamy and hold their shape well.
Beef Broth: Guiding our soup through its beefy journey, the broth delivers a delightful depth of flavor. I used low-sodium broth to keep my soup from becoming too salty.
Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s a cheeseburger without cheese? I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor and great melty properties.
Heavy Cream: This is the secret ingredient for added richness and creaminess. It takes this soup to a whole new level!
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Is Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health. While this soup is undeniably delicious, it does have its share of indulgent ingredients, primarily due to the bacon and cream. But hey, everything in moderation, right?
Bacon: Packed with flavor, but also sodium and saturated fats. I say enjoy it occasionally, especially since the love of bacon brings everyone together!
Ground Beef: A good source of protein and B vitamins, but opting for lean beef helps cut down on fat.
Onions and Carrots: Full of vitamins and antioxidants, these add some much-needed nutrition to the bowl.
Heavy Cream: While it adds richness, it also means higher calories and fats. You can use a lighter cream or milk if you wish to cut back.
All in all, this soup can fit into a balanced diet if prepared with some thoughtful adjustments—so why not savor a bowl now and then?
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 strips thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
– 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 6-8
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Soup?
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until they’re softened; about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon, and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the diced carrots and potatoes, followed by the beef broth. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the veggies are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Once the veggies are cooked, stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow it to heat through but don’t let it boil.
6. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits on top if desired!
Hearty Tips for Your Bowl of Comfort
– **Variations:** Want to add a little extra zing? Consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick!
– **Serving suggestion:** Pair with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for another dose of comfort.
– **Storage tips:** This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving!
I can’t wait for you to try this delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Soup! It’s not just food; it’s comfort in a bowl, love in every spoonful, and perfect for chilly nights. If you whip it up, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this little bowl of happiness!