Ah, nothing quite hits the spot on a chilly evening like a warm bowl of soup, right? I can tell you, Easy Cheeseburger Soup has a special place in my heart. The first time I whipped this up, it was one of those days when everything seemed to be going wrong, but as soon as that comforting aroma filled the kitchen, I knew that a little bowl of happiness was just around the corner. With every spoonful, it brought warmth and satisfaction, reminding me of those cozy family dinners!
What I adore most about this recipe is how it combines the juicy flavors of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of a classic soup. Plus, it’s pretty straightforward to throw together, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress friends with minimal effort. So let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually go for lean ground beef; it gives the soup richness without being too greasy.
Onion: Diced to perfection, it adds a sweet softness to the soup, blending seamlessly with the other flavors.
Carrots: These not only bring a pop of color but also a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or red potatoes work wonders here. They’re creamy and hearty, making every bite satisfying!
Beef Broth: A must-have for depth of flavor! I usually opt for low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
Milk: It adds that creamy texture we crave in a cheeseburger and makes the soup oh-so-smooth.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is where the cheeseburger magic happens! I suggest using sharp cheddar for that robust flavor.
Cream Cheese: This silky addition amps up the creaminess – you won’t be able to resist.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, these little jewels bring moisture and a burst of flavor. If fresh ones are in season, go for them!
Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon, right? Adding it gives that lovely smoky crunch.
Fresh Parsley: Just a sprinkle on top brings freshness and a pop of color to your bowl.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for rounding out all those fabulous flavors.
Is Easy Cheeseburger Soup Good for You?
Now, while I fully believe in the power of soup to heal the soul, we should also consider how our ingredients play into our overall health!
The **ground beef** offers a hearty source of protein and iron, making it a filling lunch or dinner choice. The **carrots** are packed with beta carotene – a fantastic immune booster! The **potatoes** provide fiber, which helps keep you feeling satiated longer.
However, I always like to remind myself that moderation is key. With ingredients such as **cream cheese** and **shredded cheddar cheese**, this soup can lean a bit on the richer side, so maybe save it for those cozy evenings when you feel like indulging. That said, you can always adjust the quantities or opt for lower-fat versions if that’s your thing.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Servings:** 4-6
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
1. In a large pot, brown the **ground beef** over medium heat until fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain off the excess fat for a cleaner soup!
2. Next, toss in the **diced onion**, **carrots**, and **potatoes**. Let those cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften up a bit.
3. Add the **beef broth** and **diced tomatoes**. Bring this tasty mixture to a boil! Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the **potatoes** are tender.
4. Stir in the **milk** and **cream cheese**, mixing until the cream cheese fully melts into the soup.
5. Next comes the best part – stirring in the **shredded cheddar cheese** until it becomes deliciously melted and creamy. Don’t forget to season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
6. If you’re feeling adventurous (and why shouldn’t you?), stir in the crumbled **bacon** for that extra savory flavor.
7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with additional **bacon**, a sprinkle of **parsley**, and if you’re like me, more cheese because you can never have too much!
Serving Suggestions for Your Soup Delight!
I often serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup with a side of crusty bread or buttery crackers to soak up every last drop. You could also pair it with a light salad to balance out the richness. Want to switch it up? Add bell peppers or even some corn for added sweetness!
Honestly, this soup has become my go-to on chilly days, and I just know it’ll warm your heart (and belly) too! If you try it out, I would love to hear what you think. Cheers to cozy nights in with a bowl of cheeseburger goodness!
