Cheeseburger Soup

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of cheeseburger soup on a chilly day. Imagine the warmth of a creamy, cheesy broth filled with tender vegetables, seasoned beef, and a delightful hint of garlic, it’s like comfort food in a bowl! In fact, studies show that meals rich in cheese, like this one, can contribute calcium to your diet, important for strong bones and teeth. Let’s dive into this easy, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings!

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Why This Cheeseburger Soup Is a Family Favorite

This cheeseburger soup never disappoints. Why? Because it combines the classics from your childhood cheeseburgers into a rich, velvety soup that everyone will love. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying and easy to whip up on busy nights. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it a top contender in the dinner rotation!

Ingredient Lineup

Here’s everything you’ll need for this cheesy delight:

• 1 pound lean ground beef – Go for a mix that’s not too fatty to keep it wholesome.
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the veggies.
• 1 sweet onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup freshly grated carrots – Brings color and nutrients to the mix.
• 1 cup diced celery – For crunch and flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – A must for that aromatic kick.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Herbs always elevate the flavor profile.
• 1 pound petite gold potatoes, quartered – They provide heartiness and texture.
• 4 to 5 cups chicken stock – The base of our soup; homemade or store-bought works great.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For richness in the soup.
• 3 tablespoons flour – To thicken the soup beautifully.
• 1 cup milk – Creates a creamy texture.
• 16 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese – Because cheeseburger soup simply needs cheese!
• ½ cup sour cream – For tanginess and creaminess.
• Freshly chopped chives, for serving – A pop of color and fresh flavor on top.

Step-by-Step Method

Let’s get cooking! Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious cheeseburger soup.

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned—about 5 minutes. Don’t crowd the pan; give it space to caramelize. 3. Remove the browned beef and set aside. 4. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. 5. Add garlic and oregano and cook for another minute until fragrant. 6. Return the cooked beef to the pot, then add quartered potatoes and chicken stock. 7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender; keep the pot covered if you can. This helps everything cook evenly. 8. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. 9. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux—this will thicken our soup. 10. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened; you want a nice, smooth consistency. 11. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. 12. Combine the cheese sauce with the soup, adding sour cream and mixing until smooth. 13. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. 14. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving for that extra pop!

Nutrition Breakdown

This soup serves about 6, and each bowl contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 2g

With a good mix of protein from the beef and cheese, and fiber from the veggies, this cheeseburger soup is both nutritious and filling—a winning combo for any meal!

Perfect Pairings

Serve this cheeseburger soup with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic dish to enjoy while watching your favorite movie on a family night. This soup is satiating enough for any season, but it shines especially bright on fall evenings when you crave warmth and coziness.

How to Store It Right

Keeping leftovers fresh is easy! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of extra stock or milk if it thickens too much.

Expert Tips

• For a creamier soup, use half-and-half instead of milk.
• Browning the meat thoroughly before removing ensures maximum flavor.
• If you’re short on time, pre-chopped veggies can save you some prep work.
• Experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère can add a gourmet twist!
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; flavors can develop as it sits.

Flavor Experiments

Want to shake things up? Here are a few fun ideas:

• Seasonal Twist: Add some fresh pumpkin puree in the fall for a cozy twist.
• Gourmet Variation: Incorporate crumbled bacon for that smoky flavor.
• Playful Addition: Toss in some diced pickles at the end for a tangy crunch!

Lessons from Past Flops

Even the best cooks have their off days. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Don’t skip the browning step for the beef; this depth of flavor is crucial!
• Adding too much broth can lead to a soupy mess; stick to the measurement.
• Overcooking the vegetables can turn them mushy; they should be tender but still have a little bite.

What to Do with Leftovers

Not sure what to do with that leftover soup? Here are some creative ideas:

• Breakfast Hash: Reheat and serve with a fried egg on top for a comforting breakfast.
• Cheeseburger Pasta Bake: Mix with cooked pasta, put in a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the soup as a filling for bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender.

Quick Questions

• Can I make cheeseburger soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat, and use vegetable broth instead.
• How long does this soup last in the fridge? It will stay fresh for about 4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
• What can I use instead of cheddar cheese? Any cheese that melts well, like Monterey Jack or Gouda, can be a delicious substitute.
• Can I freeze cheeseburger soup? Yes, just let it cool completely before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

There you have it! A classic cheeseburger soup recipe that’s sure to delight the whole family. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!