Cheeseburger soup recipe

Imagine a soup that captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger, but in a warm, creamy bowl. Our Cheeseburger Soup is a culinary masterpiece that combines the flavors of ground beef, potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery with a rich, cheesy broth. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender ground beef, soft potatoes, and the savory blend of vegetables creates a dish that is both nostalgic and innovative. With its creamy texture and melty cheese, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef: 1 pound lean ground beef
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• Carrots: 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• Celery: 1 rib celery, chopped
• Garlic: 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon ground mustard, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Broth: 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
• Potatoes: 1 pound potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes
• Cream and Cornstarch: 1 cup half-and-half cream, 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, parsley, mustard, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Combine Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the low-sodium broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

5. Thicken the Soup: In a bowl, whisk together the half-and-half cream and cornstarch to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the soup and stir well to combine.

6. Add Cheese and Stir: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring constantly over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is thickened.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Top Tips

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: To avoid a greasy soup, use lean ground beef. This will also help in reducing the overall fat content of the soup.

2. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Ensure that the vegetables are tender but not overcooked. This will help maintain their texture and flavor in the soup.

3. Whisk Constantly When Adding Cheese: When adding the cheese, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.

4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

5. Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium broth helps in controlling the overall salt content of the soup, making it healthier and more versatile.

6. Optional Toppings: Consider adding optional toppings like crispy bacon, chopped green onions, or extra shredded cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.

Variations

1. Bacon Addition: Add crispy bacon bits to the soup for an extra smoky flavor. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into the soup.

2. Mushroom Variation: Add finely diced mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables for an earthy flavor.

3. Spicy Kick: Add a can of mild or hot green chilies to give the soup a spicy kick.

4. Cheese Blend: Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a richer, more complex flavor profile.

5. Caramelized Onions: Caramelize the onions before adding them to the soup for a deep, savory flavor.

6. Slow Cooker Method: Brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables separately, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and potatoes. Cook on low for 8 hours, then stir in the cream and cheese mixture before serving.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes:
This Cheeseburger Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The lean ground beef and vegetables make it a nutritious option, while the cheese adds a creamy texture without excessive calories. To make it even healthier, consider using low-fat cream or milk and reducing the amount of cheese used. This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to four days and reheated with a splash of water to maintain its creamy texture. If you prefer to freeze it, do so in small batches and reheat over low heat to avoid dairy separation.