There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of cheeseburger soup, especially on those chilly days when all you want is a hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made this delightful dish; it was a brisk autumn afternoon, and the leaves were dancing outside. As I stirred the pot, the rich aroma of beef and melted cheese filled my kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. With each spoonful, I felt like I was enjoying a classic cheeseburger without the fuss of grilling outside!
This soup brings all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger—savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender veggies—together in a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Just imagine gathering around the table with family, sharing stories, and savoring every delicious bite. Trust me, it’s a bowl of happiness that’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting cheeseburger soup. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that delightful flavor we all love!
- 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean or regular, depending on your preference)
- 1 onion, chopped (this adds a lovely sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that extra punch of flavor)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought works great)
- 2 cups potatoes, diced (I love using Yukon Gold for their creaminess)
- 1 cup carrots, diced (these add a nice sweetness and color)
- 1 cup celery, diced (for crunch and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (this brings depth to the soup)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (adds that classic cheeseburger tang)
- 1 cup packed shredded cheddar cheese (for that gooey, melty goodness)
- 1 cup milk (to make it creamy and smooth)
- Salt and pepper to taste (essential for seasoning)
Feel free to adjust any ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your tastes. Cooking should always be fun and flexible!
How to Prepare Cheeseburger Soup
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious cheeseburger soup! It’s really quite straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
- First, grab a large pot and place it over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat so your soup doesn’t get greasy!
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Oh, that smell is heavenly!
- Now, pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and add the diced potatoes, diced carrots, and diced celery. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and mustard—this is where the magic happens! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is the time for those veggies to soften and soak up all those lovely flavors.
- After 20 minutes, add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk to the pot. Stir until the cheese melts into that creamy goodness.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
And there you have it—a warm bowl of happiness ready to be savored!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This cheeseburger soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days when you crave comfort food.
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just about 45 minutes from start to finish—ideal for busy weeknights!
- The hearty flavors of beef, cheddar, and vegetables come together beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
- This recipe is versatile! You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or even use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal; just store it in the fridge and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner later.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect cheeseburger soup is easier than you might think! Here are some practical tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time:
- Don’t rush the browning: Take your time browning the ground beef. This step adds depth to the flavor, so it’s worth the extra couple of minutes!
- Chop your veggies evenly: Make sure your potatoes, carrots, and celery are diced to a similar size. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a delightful texture in every spoonful.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!
- Let it simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for the full 20 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating that rich, comforting taste we all love.
- Store leftovers wisely: If you have any soup left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to three days and makes for a quick meal!
With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cheeseburger soup that’s not just good, but truly great!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of cheeseburger soup, it’s nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here’s a typical breakdown per serving (about 1 cup) of this comforting dish:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 3g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, you can enjoy your soup with a bit of peace of mind, knowing it’s not just delicious but also nourishing!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delightful cheeseburger soup, I love to keep it simple yet satisfying. A warm slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll pairs perfectly for dipping into that creamy goodness. You could also whip up a light side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, some crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top can take it to the next level. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with these comforting companions!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheeseburger Soup
I often get questions about cheeseburger soup, so I thought I’d share some of the most common ones to help you out!
Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
Definitely! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Also, opting for low-sodium broth and adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini can boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with cheeseburger soup?
I love pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also add some crunchy croutons for extra texture. It’s all about what makes you happy!
Can I use different cheese?
Of course! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
One of the best parts of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this cheeseburger soup is no exception! Here are some simple swaps you can consider based on your dietary needs or personal preferences:
- Ground meat: If you prefer a lighter option, you can easily substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef. They work beautifully and still give you that hearty flavor.
- Broth: For a healthier version, opt for low-sodium beef broth. It reduces the sodium content while keeping all the deliciousness intact.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or replace veggies based on what you have. Spinach, zucchini, or even frozen peas can add extra nutrition and color.
- Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, you can try other varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist in flavor.
Cooking should be fun and adaptable, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Print
Comforting Cheeseburger Soup: 7 Steps to Warm Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A warm and comforting cheeseburger soup that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty bowl. Perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Pour in beef broth and add diced potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and mustard.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and milk to the pot. Stir until cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option.
- Use low-sodium broth for a healthier version.
- Add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cheeseburger soup, comfort food, easy recipes
