Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup combines the comforting flavors of cheeseburgers with the warmth of a classic soup, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of bacon, ground beef, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying soup.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the toppings to suit your taste.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Kitchen shears
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Kitchen shears: Perfect for quickly cutting bacon into small pieces without creating a mess.

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
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 4 cups chicken broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For Texture and Topping

• 1 lb Yukon potatoes (peeled & diced small)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pickles diced (optional)

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Use kitchen shears to cut it into small pieces before cooking. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same pot with the remaining bacon fat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and set aside on another paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Melt butter in the pot. Add diced onion and celery, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Create a Roux

Mix in minced garlic and flour. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring continuously to remove any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth and flour is dissolved completely.

Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, diced potatoes, and return cooked beef to the pot. Increase heat to high until boiling, then lower it to medium-low to simmer gently with lid slightly ajar.

Step 7: Simmer Until Tender

Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Add Cheese

Turn off heat and gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese. If too thick, adjust consistency with additional chicken broth or cream as needed.

Step 9: Final Touches

Stir in most of the reserved bacon while saving some for garnish. Season with salt and pepper according to taste. You can also mix in chopped pickles or use them as topping when serving.

Enjoy your Easy Cheeseburger Soup warm! It’s perfect on its own or paired with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Serving Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. This hearty dish pairs well with various toppings and sides, making it a versatile meal option. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing this soup with a slice of crusty bread adds texture and helps soak up the flavorful broth. Consider using a sourdough or French baguette for the best results.

Topped with Crispy Bacon

• Adding extra crispy bacon on top not only enhances the flavor but also gives an appealing crunch. It’s a delightful twist that bacon lovers will surely enjoy.

Garnished with Pickles

• For those who like a tangy kick, adding diced pickles as a garnish can elevate the soup. The sharpness of pickles complements the richness of the cheese and beef.

Served with Shredded Lettuce

• A handful of shredded lettuce on top can add freshness and a nice color contrast. It’s an easy way to incorporate some greens into your meal.

Accompanied by Cheese Crackers

• Offering cheese crackers on the side provides an additional cheesy flavor and crunch. They are perfect for dipping into the soup.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• If you enjoy a bit of heat, drizzling hot sauce over your soup can bring it to life. Choose your favorite brand for an added spicy touch.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Perfecting your Easy Cheeseburger Soup can make a good dish even better. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and quality meats for the best flavor in your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Incorporate Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to add depth to the flavor.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can enhance its taste as all ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and ensures even cooking throughout.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Complementing your Easy Cheeseburger Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into this rich soup.
2. Side Salad: A light side salad with vinaigrette helps balance the heaviness of the soup.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an enjoyable crunchy contrast.
4. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds freshness and a nice crunch, making it a popular side choice.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory flavors in cheeseburger soup.
6. Cheese Quesadillas: Melty cheese quesadillas are easy to prepare and pair well with any bowl of soup.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
8. Biscotti Cookies: For dessert, serve biscotti cookies for a sweet end to the meal after finishing your cheeseburger soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Cheeseburger Soup can be a fun experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Bacon: This recipe relies on bacon’s flavor. Don’t skip it; use a good quality bacon for best results.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Check them after 15 minutes to ensure they are tender but not falling apart.
• Not Mixing the Cheese Properly: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually mix in the cheddar while the soup is off the heat for a smooth finish.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors and avoid blandness.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is key to flavor; opt for high-quality chicken broth for a rich taste.
• Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Pickles add a nice crunch and tang. Consider adding them either in the soup or as a topping for extra flavor.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Easy Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Cheeseburger Soup made of?

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is made with ground beef, bacon, cheddar cheese, potatoes, and creamy broth. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any day.

Can I customize Easy Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots or swap out cheddar for other cheeses. Get creative with toppings like croutons or additional pickles.

How long does it take to make Easy Cheeseburger Soup?

The total time is about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner!

Is Easy Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour which makes it not gluten-free. You can substitute gluten-free flour if needed.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. This warm and cozy dish is perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving comfort food. Give it a try!