Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, hearty soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. With its creamy texture and savory ingredients, it’s ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The combination of cheddar cheese and bacon elevates this soup, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This Easy Cheeseburger Soup can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and bacon creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup with your favorite toppings or add vegetables to suit your taste.
- Comforting Warmth: Ideal for cold days, this soup provides warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheeseburger flavors, making it a hit with the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you move through the recipe smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Soup pot
- Measuring cups
- Kitchen shears
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Soup pot: A sturdy soup pot allows for even cooking and simmering of all ingredients.
- Kitchen shears: They make cutting bacon quick and easy, saving time in preparation.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 5 pieces of bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup onion (diced)
- 2 sticks celery (diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
For Thickening and Flavor
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Heartiness
- 1 lb Yukon potatoes (peeled & diced small)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup pickles (diced)
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Use kitchen shears to quickly cut the bacon into small pieces. Cook it in a soup pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the fat in the pot.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the same pot. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain the fat and place the beef on another paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Melt the butter in the pot. Sauté the onion and celery for 4-5 minutes until they soften.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour
Mix in the garlic and flour. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring continuously to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 5: Incorporate Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until fully dissolved and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the cream, Worcestershire sauce, potatoes, and return cooked beef to the pot. Increase heat to high to bring it to a boil. Lower heat to medium-low for a gentle simmer. Cover with lid slightly ajar.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and soup reaches desired thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Add Cheese
Turn off heat and gradually mix in the cheddar cheese. If too thick, add more chicken broth or cream as needed.
Step 9: Final Touches
Stir in most of the cooked bacon while reserving some for garnish. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally mix in chopped pickles or use them as a topping when serving.
Enjoy your Easy Cheeseburger Soup!
How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Serving Easy Cheeseburger Soup can be a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: Pair the soup with warm sourdough for a tangy contrast.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused bread complements the soup’s richness perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives: Add a sprinkle of fresh chives for a mild onion flavor.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley offers a pop of color and freshness.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the soup’s richness.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
Garnished with Extra Cheese
- Additional Cheddar: Sprinkle more sharp cheddar on top right before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
- Crumbled Bacon: Enhance the savory elements by adding more crispy bacon as a garnish.
With Pickles on the Side
- Dill Pickles: Serve dill pickles alongside the soup for a crunchy, tangy addition.
- Sweet Relish: A small dish of sweet relish can also provide a contrasting flavor profile.
How to Perfect Easy Cheeseburger Soup
To ensure your Easy Cheeseburger Soup is truly perfect, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired texture.
- Incorporate Leftovers: Feel free to add leftover vegetables or meats to create a unique twist on this classic recipe.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for balanced flavors.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Cheeseburger Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting complement.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add nutritional value and a hint of bitterness that balances well.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, making it an ideal match.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and sweetness to round out your meal options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Cheeseburger Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.
- Skipping the bacon fat: Using the bacon fat adds flavor. Don’t drain it before cooking the beef.
- Not cooking the flour enough: Failing to cook the flour will leave a raw taste. Make sure to sauté it with garlic until it’s lightly golden.
- Ignoring potato size: Cutting potatoes too large can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for small, even pieces for consistent tenderness.
- Overcooking the cheese: Adding cheese too early can cause it to separate. Stir it in off heat for smooth melting.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting salt and pepper is crucial. Always season at the end after all ingredients are combined.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Easy Cheeseburger Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Easy Cheeseburger Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered pot for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Cheeseburger Soup.
What makes Easy Cheeseburger Soup so comforting?
The combination of creamy cheddar, crispy bacon, and hearty ingredients creates a warm and satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Can I customize my Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
Absolutely! Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or try different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
How spicy is Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
This recipe is not spicy by default. You can add hot sauce or crushed red pepper if you prefer some heat.
Is Easy Cheeseburger Soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or packed lunches.
Final Thoughts
Easy Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings!
Easy Cheeseburger Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the comfort of Easy Cheeseburger Soup, a delightful fusion of your favorite cheeseburger flavors in a warm, creamy bowl. This cozy dish is perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, easily prepared in under an hour. The rich combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar creates a satisfying meal that will please both kids and adults. With its versatility, you can customize it with various toppings or additional vegetables to suit your taste. Dive into this hearty soup that brings joy and warmth to every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 5 pieces of bacon
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup onion (diced)
- 2 sticks celery (diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb Yukon potatoes (peeled & diced small)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, cook bacon until crispy, then transfer to paper towels.
- Brown the ground beef in the same pot and drain excess fat.
- Sauté onion and celery in butter until softened.
- Add garlic and flour; cook for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in cream, Worcestershire sauce, diced potatoes, and return cooked beef to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until potatoes are tender.
- Off heat, mix in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Stir in most bacon; season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
