Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Bacon Cheeseburger Soup! It’s like taking your favorite decadent cheeseburger and transforming it into a cozy bowl of warmth that you can slurp up with a spoon. Whenever I make this soup, it brings back fond memories of lazy Sundays spent with friends, gathered around the kitchen table, laughter bouncing off the walls as we share stories and relish every spoonful. There’s just something about the combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and savory beef that feels like a big warm hug from the inside out.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how indulgent it tastes, yet it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, which is a major win in my book! Plus, it makes for great leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day. Let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Bacon Cheeseburger Soup?
Bacon: Oh, the glorious bacon! It adds a crunchy texture and a smoky flavor that just can’t be beat. I usually go for thick-cut bacon because it holds up better in the soup.
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the soup, giving it that classic cheeseburger feel. I prefer using lean ground beef to keep things a little healthier, but you can use any type you like.
Onion: Chopped onion adds a nice aromatic base. I like using yellow onion for its sweetness, but white or red will work too!
Garlic: A couple of minced garlic cloves bring a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and bacon.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes make the soup hearty and filling. You can use any variety, but I love using Russets for their creamy texture.
Beef Broth: This is what transforms the mixture into a soup! Homemade is always best, but I won’t judge if you grab some from the store.
Heavy Cream: For that rich, velvety texture, you can’t beat heavy cream. It makes the soup indulgent and satisfying.
Cheddar Cheese: You’ll want to top your soup with shredded cheddar cheese for that authentic cheeseburger experience. The more, the merrier, I always say!
Pickles: Yes, pickles! Finely chopped pickles stirred into the soup or used as a garnish add that classic tang that compliments the cheeseburger flavor profile beautifully.
Is Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Good for You?
Well, let’s face it: this soup is not a salad, but it does have its perks!
Bacon: It adds protein and can be satisfying in moderation, but let’s not kid ourselves—it’s a treat!
Ground Beef: A fantastic source of protein and essential vitamins, though opt for leaner cuts to keep the saturated fats in check.
Heavy Cream: It does up the calorie count, but it also provides calcium and a rich taste. You could use half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up a notch.
Potatoes: They offer fiber and vitamin C, making them a hearty addition, but remember not to overdo it!
It’s a balance of indulgence and nourishment; as long as you’re enjoying it in moderation, I say go for it!
Ingredients
– 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
– 1 pound ground beef (lean)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup pickles, diced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 6*
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Soup?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave a couple of tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. In the same pot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and crumbly, then drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced potatoes, and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it heat through for a few more minutes.
6. Add the crispy bacon back into the pot, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and creamy.
7. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in the diced pickles for that extra cheeseburger kick. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and pickles if desired.
The Final Touch: Serving Suggestions
Don’t shy away from topping your soup with some crispy fried onions or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick! You could also pair it with some crusty bread for dipping—nothing beats that combo. And trust me, this soup is no frills; it’s about comfort and deliciousness!
Now that I’ve shared my beloved Bacon Cheeseburger Soup recipe with you, I hope you take a crack at it. I promise, you’ll be savoring every spoonful! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out; I’d love to hear your experiences and any tweaks you made to make it your own! Happy cooking!