Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute obsession with cheeseburger soup! It’s like taking all the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger and turning it into a warm, creamy hug in a bowl. Seriously, this soup has that hearty vibe that makes you feel all cozy inside, perfect for those chilly nights or when you just need some comfort food. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up! You won’t believe how quickly you can have a steaming pot of this savory goodness on the table. With ground beef, cheesy goodness, and tender potatoes all mingling together, each spoonful is a delightful reminder of why cheeseburgers are a favorite! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Soup
To create this mouthwatering cheeseburger soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes (I like to use Yukon gold for their creaminess!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the more, the merrier!)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for a rich flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (adds a lovely tang)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for that extra depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients blend to create a warm and hearty dish that captures all the flavors of a cheeseburger. Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time!
How to Prepare Cheeseburger Soup
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this amazing cheeseburger soup! I promise, it’s as straightforward as it is delicious. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time!
Step 1: Brown the Meat
First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. As the beef starts to brown, break it up with a spatula—this helps it cook evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and browned, with a little bit of that delicious caramelization starting to form. Don’t rush this step; the browning adds so much flavor!
Step 2: Add Broth and Potatoes
Once your meat is looking perfect, it’s time to drain any excess fat. Then, pour in the beef broth and toss in the diced potatoes. I love using Yukon gold potatoes because they’re creamy and delicious! Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 15-20 minutes, or until those potatoes are fork-tender. You want them soft but not mushy, so keep an eye on them!
Step 3: Mix in Dairy and Seasonings
Now comes the fun part! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream. This is where the soup gets its creamy, dreamy texture. Just a heads up, make sure not to let it boil after adding the dairy—if it does, you risk curdling the milk! Instead, just heat it gently until everything is warmed through. Finally, add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and voilà! Your cheeseburger soup is ready to be served!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheeseburger soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, providing that heartwarming comfort we all crave.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, cheese, and spices creates a rich and savory flavor that’s downright addictive.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak it to your liking—add bacon, throw in some veggies, or top it with your favorite garnishes!
- Leftover Magic: This soup keeps well, making it fantastic for leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Kid-Friendly: It’s a hit with the whole family, making dinner time a breeze without any complaints at the table!
Trust me, once you make this cheeseburger soup, it’s going to become a go-to recipe in your home!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cheeseburger soup is nothing short of spectacular! Here are my top tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time:
- Choose Your Beef Wisely: I usually go for a lean ground beef (like 80/20) for the perfect balance of flavor and less grease. But if you want to amp up the flavor, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative!
- Season as You Go: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning the meat while it browns builds layers of flavor. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Try adding a bit of Monterey Jack for creaminess or even a sprinkle of pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- Veggie Boost: If you want to sneak in some veggies, consider adding carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli! Just chop them small and toss them in with the potatoes to let them soften while cooking.
- Make it Your Own: Love bacon? Crumble some crispy bacon on top just before serving for that delicious crunch! You can also add a dollop of ketchup or mustard on top for that true cheeseburger vibe!
- Serve with Style: I like to serve this soup with some crusty bread or soft rolls on the side. It’s perfect for dipping! A light salad can also balance the richness of the soup beautifully.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove for the best texture!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re going to make the most delicious, comforting cheeseburger soup ever! Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying cheeseburger soup, it’s nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup) of this comforting dish:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. This soup packs a hearty punch while still being a relatively balanced meal. Enjoy the flavors without any guilt!
FAQ About Cheeseburger Soup
Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making cheeseburger soup ahead of time is a fantastic idea. You can prepare the soup, let it cool to room temperature, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. The flavors actually meld together beautifully, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
You can definitely freeze cheeseburger soup! Just let it cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or airtight freezer bags. It can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring gently. Just remember, you might want to add a splash of milk or broth if it thickened up too much during freezing!
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
There are so many delicious ways to amp up the flavor of your cheeseburger soup! For starters, you can add crispy bacon on top for that smoky crunch. Tossing in some diced pickles or jalapeños can give it a nice tangy kick. I also love adding a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat! If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or even some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of freshness. And, of course, don’t forget to top it off with more shredded cheese because, well, cheese makes everything better!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to store your delicious cheeseburger soup so you can savor those flavors even longer! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. I recommend transferring it to an airtight container—this keeps it fresh and prevents any funky fridge smells from sneaking in!
You can keep your cheeseburger soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed. Now, if you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze it too! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or sturdy freezer bags. Just remember to leave a little space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It’ll stay good in the freezer for about 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cheeseburger soup, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, pour it into a pot and warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. You might notice it’s thickened up a bit, so feel free to add a splash of milk or beef broth to get it back to that creamy consistency we all love! Just be careful not to let it boil after adding any dairy. And that’s it! You’ll have a comforting bowl of cheeseburger soup ready to enjoy all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious cheeseburger soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete and satisfying meal! Trust me, pairing it right can elevate your dining experience.
First off, you can’t go wrong with some warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. They’re perfect for dipping into that creamy goodness and soaking up every last drop of soup. I love a nice sourdough or even some buttery garlic bread. Yum!
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad is always a great option. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. You could even add some crispy bacon bits or shredded cheese to tie in those cheeseburger flavors!
Another fun idea is to serve some crispy potato wedges or homemade fries on the side. They’ll complement the soup perfectly and add that satisfying crunch. You can season them with your favorite spices or even dip them in some ketchup for that classic burger joint experience!
Feeling adventurous? Try a side of coleslaw for a crunchy, tangy bite that cuts through the creaminess of the soup. It adds a delightful texture and can brighten up the whole meal!
Lastly, if you want to go all out, how about making some cheesy quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches? They’re both cheesy and comforting, just like the soup! Serve them alongside for a cozy, hearty feast that will leave everyone smiling.
No matter what you choose, these sides will beautifully complement your cheeseburger soup and make for a delightful meal everyone will love!
Print
Cheeseburger Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty and creamy soup that captures the flavors of a cheeseburger.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add beef broth and potatoes to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheese, milk, and sour cream.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Heat through but do not boil.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This soup is great for leftovers.
- You can add bacon for extra flavor.
- Top with additional cheese or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheeseburger soup, soup recipe, comfort food