Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
When the chill of winter sets in, there's nothing quite like a piping hot bowl of cheeseburger soup to warm your soul. This beloved dish has rapidly gained a reputation as the ultimate comfort food. But what is it about this creamy, hearty concoction that makes it so universally appealing?
What Makes Cheeseburger Soup a Comfort Food Favorite?
Transitioning from a classic cheeseburger to a comforting soup, the flavors you love are all wrapped up in a cozy bowl. Imagine the delicious combination of lean ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, all swimming in a creamy broth. It’s like your favorite diner cheeseburger, but with all the goodness in soup form!
The award winning cheeseburger soup masterfully blends textures and flavors that satiate and delight. Imagine biting into that societal favorite: the cheeseburger, versus savouring that same flavor symphony in soup—it's just a game changer!
Not only does it deliver rich, cheesy flavor, but it also packs in vitamins thanks to the veggies. And with a prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s a perfect option for busy weeknights. Curious to discover how to make this delightful dish? Read on for the full recipe!
Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Essential ingredients for a hearty soup
To create your award winning cheeseburger soup, you’ll need a solid foundation of hearty ingredients. Start with:
- Ground beef (1 lb): For that rich, meaty flavor.
- Chopped onion (¾ cup): Adds depth and aroma.
- Shredded carrots (¾ cup): For a touch of sweetness and color.
- Diced celery (¾ cup): Brings a refreshing crunch.
- Dried basil and parsley flakes (1 teaspoon each): Herbs that elevate the soup’s flavor.
- Butter (4 tbsp): Essential for sautéing and creaminess.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): The liquid base that ties everything together.
- Peeled and diced potatoes (4 cups): For heartiness.
- Flour (¼ cup): To thicken the soup.
- Velveeta or shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): The star ingredient that gives it that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Optional add-ins for extra flavor
Take your cheeseburger soup to the next level by incorporating these optional ingredients:
- Turkey bacon: For a smoky touch.
- Chicken ham: Adds a different flavor profile.
- Spices like paprika or cayenne: If you enjoy a little heat.
- Fresh herbs like chives or parsley for garnish: To brighten up the soup.
Experiment with these add-ins or visit Epicurious for extra tips and variations for your perfect bowl! You’ll soon discover that the best soups are the most personalized.
Preparing Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Creating an award winning cheeseburger soup is not just about following a recipe—it's about crafting a warm bowl of comfort that kicks cold days to the curb! Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish in a few simple steps.
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
To start, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese (cubed) or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Before you dive in, wash and dice the vegetables, and bring out all your cooking tools (like a sturdy saucepan and a wooden spoon). Preparation is key to making the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Cook the Ground Beef to Perfection
In a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, brown that pound of ground beef. The goal is to achieve a beautifully browned, crumbly texture. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. This step adds a hearty foundation that forms the backbone of your cheeseburger soup.
Sauté the Vegetables for Added Depth
In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the chopped onions, shredded carrots, and diced celery, along with your dried herbs—basil and parsley. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, or until they’re tender and aromatic. This step is crucial because it builds a fragrant base that will elevate the overall flavor of your soup!
Build the Broth with Potatoes and Chicken Broth
Add the prepared chicken broth and diced potatoes along with the beef back into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender. This is where your award winning cheeseburger soup starts coming to life!
Thicken and Enrich the Soup with Cheese
In a small skillet, melt the remaining butter and stir in the flour, cooking for about 3-5 minutes. This will help thicken your soup beautifully. Add this roux into your soup and bring it to another boil, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Then, stir in the cheese and milk until they melt into a creamy, rich consistency.
Finish with Sour Cream for Creaminess
As you lower the heat, it’s time to give your soup the final touch. Stir in the sour cream, ensuring that it blends seamlessly into the warm concoction. This not only adds creaminess but also provides a lovely tang that complements the cheeses.
Serve it hot, maybe even with a slice of crusty bread on the side, and enjoy your delicious, award winning cheeseburger soup! For more tips and variations, check out this link for additional soup ideas!
Now that you’re all set, what are your favorite toppings for soup? Consider croutons or perhaps a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flair!
Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Cheesy Chicken Cheeseburger Soup
If you're craving something a little different, why not try a cheesy chicken twist on the award winning cheeseburger soup? Simply swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken and add in a splash of BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture and cheesy goodness, but with a lighter protein option. This variation works beautifully with rotisserie chicken, making it a quick weeknight dinner!
Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup
For those looking for a meat-free alternative, a vegetarian cheeseburger soup is a fantastic choice. Replace the beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You can also toss in some chopped mushrooms for added umami. This soup maintains the delicious comfort of award winning cheeseburger soup while being completely plant-based. Top with your favorite vegetarian cheese for that creamy finish!
Experimenting with these variations can keep the family excited and satisfied! Want more unique twists? Check out this blog for additional soup recipes!
Cooking tips and notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Tips for achieving the perfect consistency
For a creamy yet hearty texture in your award winning cheeseburger soup, remember that the balance of flour and milk is key. Make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter until smooth to avoid lumps. If your soup is too thick, add a splash of extra milk or broth during cooking to thin it out, or if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Best practices for flavor enhancement
To elevate the flavors, consider sautéing a clove or two of minced garlic with the vegetables. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can also brighten the dish. For an extra kick, you might want to stir in some Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce, amplifying the cheeseburger vibes.
Also, if you love exploring new flavors, check out The Spruce Eats for creative ideas to jazz up your soups!
Serving suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Pairing with fresh bread
One of the best ways to enhance your award winning cheeseburger soup is by serving it with a side of freshly baked bread. The warmth and crusty texture of a sourdough or crusty baguette perfectly complement the creamy soup. Just imagine dipping a piece of that bread into the rich flavors of cheese and beef! For a quicker option, try some garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every beautiful drop of this hearty dish.
Ideal side dishes to complement the soup
To round out your meal, consider pairing your cheeseburger soup with light and fresh side dishes:
- Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add brightness and crunch.
- Pickle Platter: Offering a selection of pickles can bring an exciting tang to offset the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving roasted carrots and zucchini for a nutritious touch.
These side dishes not only enhance the overall experience but also make your meal feel balanced and satisfying. Enjoy experimenting with your serving style!
Time breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation time
Getting started with your award winning cheeseburger soup takes about 15 minutes. This time is perfect for dicing, chopping, and preparing your ingredients. Trust me, a well-organized prep makes the cooking process much smoother!
Cooking time
The magic really happens in the 30 minutes you'll spend cooking. This is when the flavors meld together beautifully, creating that rich, creamy goodness everyone loves.
Total time
In just 45 minutes, you can whisk your family away to a cozy culinary haven with this delightful soup. Grab your favorite bread or crackers, and you'll have a soul-satisfying meal ready in no time!
For more kitchen tips and delicious recipes, feel free to check out resources like Food Network and Allrecipes. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Calories
A hearty serving of this award winning cheeseburger soup delivers approximately 581 calories. This makes it a satisfying meal option that packs in flavor and warmth.
Protein
You’ll find around 38 grams of protein in each bowl, thanks to the lean ground beef. This high protein content makes the soup not just delicious but also perfect for fueling your day.
Sodium
With about 2,144 mg of sodium, it's best enjoyed in moderation. Pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables can help balance your meal.
For more insights on healthy eating, consider exploring the American Heart Association or the USDA Nutrition website. Enjoy your soup journey!
FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making award winning cheeseburger soup ahead of time can be a fantastic meal prep solution. Just prepare it according to the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld beautifully when left overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
How can I store leftovers effectively?
To store leftovers, place the cooled soup in an airtight container. If you want to prolong its shelf life, consider freezing it. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy another bowl of this comforting soup!
What are some good toppings for cheeseburger soup?
Toppings can truly elevate your cheeseburger soup! Here are some popular options:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Crispy turkey bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
- Croutons for added crunch
These toppings not only enhance the flavor but add delightful textures to every spoonful, making it an experience to savor!
Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
In wrapping up, this award-winning cheeseburger soup is more than just a meal; it's a comforting experience that brings friends and family together. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion, making it a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every spoonful!
Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- Calphalon Cookware Set
- Staub Cast Iron Skillet
- The Recipe Critic Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese cubed or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan. Drain and set aside.
- In the same saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of butter, diced onion, shredded carrots, parsley flakes, basil, and celery. Cook until tender.
- Add the broth, potatoes, and beef and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- In a small skillet melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in the flour. Cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly. Add to the soup and bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until the cheese melts. Remove from heat and blend in sour cream.
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