Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Why Cheeseburger Soup is a Game Changer for Homemade Meals
If you're on the lookout for a delightful twist on your go-to comfort foods, you absolutely need to try this award winning cheeseburger soup. Imagine encapsulating all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl of soup—it's like your favorite diner meal just got a cozy upgrade!
This soup is an incredible option for young professionals who may not have hours to spend in the kitchen but still want a satisfying homemade meal. With a simple prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you can whip this up on a busy weeknight. The combination of lean ground beef with fresh vegetables creates a balanced dish that's hearty yet comforting.
Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from potatoes, carrots, and other veggies, making it a one-bowl wonder. Looking for more soup inspirations? Check out this article on the benefits of creamy soups for additional information.
So, why wait? Give this delicious cheeseburger soup a try, and you might just have a new family favorite on your hands!
Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Essential ingredients for a hearty soup
Creating an award winning cheeseburger soup starts with the basics. Here’s what you need for a rich and flavorful base:
- 1 pound ground beef: The heartiness of the beef adds protein and richness.
- ¾ cup chopped onion: A must for that aromatic flavor.
- ¾ cup shredded carrots and celery: These veggies bring sweetness and texture.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The liquid gold that forms the soup’s base.
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes: For a filling, creamy consistency.
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar: The melty goodness that makes it indulgent.
Optional ingredients for customization
Once you've got your essentials, consider these optional ingredients to elevate your soup:
- Turkey bacon: For added crunch and flavor.
- Spices like garlic powder or crushed red pepper: To kick things up a notch.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For an extra creamy finish.
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro: For a pop of freshness and color.
Feel free to mix and match to make this soup your own! If you're looking for more creative ideas, check out this guide on soup customization that can give you additional culinary insights.
This combination of ingredients will not only fill your stomach but warm your heart!
Step-by-step preparation of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup to comfort you after a long day. Follow these simple steps to create a deliciously creamy, hearty soup that’s perfect for sharing. Let's get cooking!
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it's essential to organize your kitchen. Here's what you'll need for your cheeseburger soup:
- 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 (or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go. This not only makes the cooking process smoother but also ensures you don’t miss any ingredients!
Brown the ground beef
Start your soup by browning the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. Be sure to break it apart as it cooks to achieve even browning. Once fully cooked (and don’t forget to drain any excess fat!), set the beef aside. This step creates a strong foundation of flavor for your award winning cheeseburger soup.
Sauté the vegetables
In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of butter and toss in the chopped onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery along with your dried basil and parsley flakes. Sauté these veggies for about 5–7 minutes until they become tender. The aroma will be incredible, filling your kitchen with warmth — just wait until you taste it!
Combine the base ingredients
Next, add the chicken broth, your browned beef, and peeled, diced potatoes into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Create the creamy texture
While your base simmers, grab a small skillet. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for 3–5 minutes until bubbly. This mixture will serve as your thickening agent! Stir this into your soup and let it come to a boil again. Cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes before turning the heat low.
Stir in the cheese and finish
Finally, it's time for the star ingredient. Stir in your cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts, creating that enticing creamy texture we all love. Once melted, take the soup off the heat, and blend in the sour cream for a rich finish.
Serve your award winning cheeseburger soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, and watch as those around you savor every last spoonful. Enjoy!
This recipe is not just about taste; it's about creating memories over a shared meal. Happy cooking! For more tips and recipe variations, consider visiting The Recipe Critic, where you'll discover an array of delicious ideas to elevate your cooking.
Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
For a kick of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your award winning cheeseburger soup. This not only enhances flavor but adds a wonderful depth. You can also substitute regular cheese with pepper jack for a creamy spice that will warm you from the inside out.
Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup
Don’t worry, vegetarians! You can enjoy this soup too. Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, and opt for vegetable broth. Using cashew cream in place of sour cream can give it that creamy richness while keeping it completely meat-free.
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
If you’re all about easy cooking, consider making slow cooker cheeseburger soup. Just combine all your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work! Set it on low for 6 hours or high for 3. You'll return home to a cozy, delicious meal.
These variations ensure you can enjoy cheeseburger soup no matter your dietary preferences! Whether you want to add spice, keep it vegetarian, or slow it down, there’s a perfect twist for everyone.
Cooking tips and notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredient substitutions
When making this award winning cheeseburger soup, feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions! For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef. If you’re dairy-free, substitute plant-based cheese and milk. You can also swap out potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb option. Don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs work just as well!
How to store leftovers
Leftover soup is a treat! Store your cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as soup tends to expand when frozen. Reheat on the stovetop for best results!
For more tips on food storage, check out resources from the USDA here.
Serving suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Pairing with bread or sandwiches
Elevate your award winning cheeseburger soup experience by pairing it with some delicious bread or sandwiches. A crusty baguette or warm garlic bread can be perfect for dipping, while grilled cheese sandwiches made with your favorite cheese add a comforting twist. Consider using whole grain bread for added nutrition or even a turkey bacon BLT to complement the flavors of the soup. The key is to create a satisfying meal that invites cozy conversation around the table.
Creative garnishes
Don’t let your cheeseburger soup go unadorned—garnishing can take it to the next level! Consider topping your soup with:
- Chopped green onions for a pop of color.
- Crispy turkey bacon bits for a savory crunch.
- A dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
- Shredded cheese (think cheddar or pepper jack) for extra cheesiness.
These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor profile, creating a delightful dining experience.
Whether enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, your award winning cheeseburger soup will surely be a hit! For more ideas on enhancing your meals, check out culinary resources like EatingWell or Bon Appétit.
Time Breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation Time
Get started with just 15 minutes of preparation. This step involves chopping vegetables, browning the beef, and bringing your ingredients together—it's a perfect way to kick off a cozy cooking session!
Cooking Time
Once your ingredients are prepped, the cooking takes about 30 minutes. This includes simmering the hearty blend of veggies and broth—just enough time to let all those delicious flavors meld beautifully.
Total Time
In total, you’ll need 45 minutes to create this mouthwatering award winning cheeseburger soup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner! With a quick labor of love, you’ll have a rich, creamy delight to warm your soul.
If you’re eager to explore more delicious recipes, check out this handy guide to soups for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
When diving into the delicious bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup, understanding the nutritional profile is vital. Let’s break it down:
Calories
This comforting soup packs in approximately 581 calories per serving. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your hunger, making it a great dinner option after a long day.
Protein
With about 38 grams of protein, this soup is not only filling but also supports muscle health and keeps you energized. This makes it a wonderful meal choice for fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals alike.
Sodium
Keep in mind that our soup has around 2,144 mg of sodium per serving. While the flavor is undeniably rich, consider pairing it with a low-sodium side or topping to balance your daily intake.
For more insights on maintaining a balanced diet, you might find the CDC's nutrition guidelines helpful! The next time you savor this award winning cheeseburger soup, you’ll know just how nutritious it really is.
FAQ about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup not only tastes amazing right after you make it but also benefits from being made ahead of time. If you prepare it a day in advance, the flavors have more time to meld, making it even tastier!
What is the best way to reheat cheeseburger soup?
To reheat your delicious soup, simply warm it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you're in a rush, you can use the microwave, but be sure to do it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup for later?
Yes, you can freeze this fantastic soup! Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat it using the methods mentioned above. For more tips on freezing soups, check out resources like Food Network for expert advice.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with Cheeseburger Soup, and don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions!
Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
In summary, this award winning cheeseburger soup is the comforting hug in a bowl you’ve been searching for. Packed with savory flavors and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Give it a try, and let it warm your heart and home!
For additional tips and variations, check out these resources: The Spruce Eats and Serious Eats. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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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