Oh, where do I even start with this deliciously creamy and comforting dish? Cheeseburger Soup is my ultimate cold-weather favorite. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and I can practically hear my soup pot simmering away in the kitchen as the rich, cheesy aroma fills the air. This soup is everything you love about a cheeseburger, but in soup form. It’s warm, hearty, and always brings me back to those cozy family dinners in my childhood home, where laughter and stories were shared over warm bowls of goodness.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily toss in whatever you have on hand—maybe some leftover veggies or different cheese options. Every batch can end up being a little unique, like a surprise every time I scoop it into a bowl. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make! Let’s dive into this creamy comfort food delight together.
What’s in Cheeseburger Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually opt for lean ground beef to keep things a little lighter while still packing that meaty flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using turkey or chicken instead!
Onion and Garlic: The dynamic duo! They add aromatic depth to the soup. There’s something about the smell of sautéed onions and garlic that just feels like home to me.
Carrots and Celery: These add great texture and a bit of sweetness. You can never have too many veggies in your soup, right?
Potatoes: Diced potatoes make the soup even heartier and more filling. I love using Yukon Gold because they’re creamy and cook up perfectly.
Beef Broth: This forms the base of our soup, adding richness and flavor. I usually go for low-sodium broth so I can control the salt levels better.
Cheddar Cheese: A must for that cheesy goodness we all crave! Go for a sharp cheddar for stronger flavor, or use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Milk and Cream: These give the soup its characteristic creaminess. I often use whole milk, but feel free to substitute with lower-fat options if you prefer.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce bring everything together beautifully, adding that “yum!” factor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Is Cheeseburger Soup Good for You?
Well, it depends on how you look at it! Cheeseburger Soup has some nutritious elements, but there are a few things to consider as well.
Ground Beef: This is a fantastic source of protein and iron. If you choose lean beef, you can enjoy it without too much extra fat, making it a more balanced option.
Vegetables: The onions, carrots, and celery provide important vitamins and minerals. Generally, the more veggies, the better—so don’t shy away from adding extra!
Cheese and Cream: Here’s where you might want to watch your portions. Cheese is delicious, but it’s also high in fat and calories. However, it can still be enjoyed in moderation.
Overall, Cheeseburger Soup can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed mindfully.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (lean is best)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold works great)
– 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 cup milk (whole or your choice)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for more flavor)
– ½ cup heavy cream (optional for more richness)
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe typically serves about 6 generous bowls of comforting goodness!
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup?
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the beef broth, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Reduce the heat and stir in the milk and heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Add Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cheeseburger Soup Variations and Tips
– Want an extra veggie boost? Toss in some spinach or green beans towards the end of cooking for added color and nutrition.
– For a bit of zest, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
– If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cheese.
– Leftovers? This soup reheats beautifully on the stove. Just add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out if it thickens too much in the fridge.
I can’t stress enough how perfect this Cheeseburger Soup is for those cozy nights in or impressing your friends at a casual gathering. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a new favorite in your kitchen! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experiences! Happy cooking!