There’s just something cozy about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s a rich, creamy concoction like Easy Cheeseburger Soup. I remember the first time I made this recipe—it was a chilly evening, and I had invited some friends over for dinner. We were all craving something hearty, and this dish didn’t just warm our bellies; it warmed our hearts too. The blend of ground beef, bacon, cheese, and potatoes creates a comforting hug in a bowl that’s hard to resist!
What I love most about this cheeseburger soup is how it captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger without all the fuss of grilling or assembling. I mean, who wouldn’t want to dig into a bowl of cheeseburger goodness on a weeknight? Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making the clean-up a breeze—more time for laughter and good conversation!
What’s in Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually opt for lean ground beef to keep things a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon, right? It adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the soup.
Onion: Diced onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish. I recommend a medium yellow onion for the best flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds that irresistible aroma and richness that makes you want to dive right in.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold or Idaho potatoes. They become tender and absorb all those lovely flavors.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with juice add a nice acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and cream. I usually grab whatever brand I find on sale!
Beef Broth: The broth is the base of our soup, lending a savory depth. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and luxurious. A little goes a long way!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar is my favorite for this soup. It melts beautifully and gives that iconic cheeseburger flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash adds a hint of umami that ties all the flavors together.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, always adjust to your taste!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh note to every bowl!
Is Easy Cheeseburger Soup Good for You?
Now let’s chat about the health side of this delicious soup. While it’s definitely a comfort food, it does offer some nutritional benefits!
Ground Beef: A great source of protein, which is essential for muscle health. Just keep the portions in moderation!
Bacon: While it’s tasty, bacon is high in fat and sodium, so enjoy in moderation. You can even swap for turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option.
Potatoes: Rich in vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium, potatoes make this meal filling and nutritious.
Heavy Cream and Cheese: They do add a healthy dose of fat and calories, but they also provide calcium and satisfaction that this soup is a full meal.
Overall, while this soup is on the richer side, it’s perfect for those occasional indulgent nights. Just balance it out with some veggies or a fresh salad on the side!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
*(Serves 4-6)*
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup?
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once it’s perfect, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the savory drippings in the pot. Don’t you just love that smell?
2. Next, toss the diced onion into the pot and sauté until it’s nice and translucent—about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and keep cooking for another minute until you can’t resist that delicious aroma.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook it until it’s browned through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy bowl of soup!
4. Time to stir in those diced potatoes, the can of diced tomatoes (yes, juice and all), beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Once the potatoes are perfectly cooked, pour in the heavy cream and toss in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy, then season with salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Serve that steamy goodness hot, topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Your friends and family will be begging for seconds!
Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Lovers
This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread—perfect for dipping! If you want to mix things up, feel free to add your favorite burger toppings like diced pickles or a dollop of sour cream. You can even throw in some extra seasonings like paprika or herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a cozy night in, I hope you give this Easy Cheeseburger Soup a try! It’s like diving into a cheeseburger but with the warmth and comfort of soup. I’d love to hear how it turns out, so make sure to share your experience and any twists you might add. Enjoy!
