Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Imagine a dish that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, hearty soup—welcome to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup! This delightful recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also serve as a fantastic meal option for busy young professionals.
Why Cheeseburger Soup is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals
In today's fast-paced world, convenience and nutrition are key for young adults managing careers and social lives. Cheeseburger soup checks both boxes. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, it fits effortlessly into your weeknight routine. Packed with lean ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese, this soup provides a balanced meal you can feel good about.
Need a quick meal for friends or a cozy date night in? This soup brings an inviting, delicious aroma to your kitchen while delivering rich flavors that impress. Plus, it's easily customizable—swap the beef for turkey or add more veggies for an extra health boost!
Explore the full recipe to craft this delightful comfort food, and let it become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or hosting friends, award winning cheeseburger soup is here to elevate your dining experience.
Check out more about the benefits of quick, nourishing meals here, and see how easy it can be to bring wholesome meals into your kitchen!
Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Essential ingredients for a hearty bowl
To create a delectable, award winning cheeseburger soup, you'll need just the right ingredients to ensure a rich taste and creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll gather for a hearty bowl:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese or shredded cheddar
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¼ cup sour cream
These ingredients form the base of your soup, combining to create a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Optional add-ins for extra flavor
Want to elevate your cheeseburger soup experience? Consider these optional add-ins to bring even more flavor:
- Turkey Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch.
- Chicken Ham: Pairs beautifully with beef for extra depth.
- Spices: A dash of paprika or cayenne pepper can pack a punch.
- Veggies: Chopped bell peppers or peas will add color and nutrition.
Feel free to experiment with these options based on your preferences! Discover more about adding unique flavors to your favorite soups here.
Step-by-step Preparation of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Creating your own award winning cheeseburger soup is not only satisfying but also an excellent way to impress friends and family with your culinary skills. Follow these steps to make a dish that warms the heart and the belly!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you jump into cooking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. Having everything at your fingertips will streamline the process. 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 or shredded cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. As you cook, break the meat into smaller pieces with your spatula. This not only helps the meat cook evenly but also adds texture to your cheeseburger soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat, set the beef aside, and don’t forget to savor that delicious aroma!
Sauté Vegetables to Perfection
In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter before adding your chopped onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery, along with the herbs—dried basil and parsley flakes. Sauté this mixture until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. The fragrance will surely take you down memory lane!
Combine Broth and Potatoes
Now it’s time to bring in the star of the show: the broth. Add the chicken broth, along with your diced potatoes and the previously browned beef. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Create the Creamy Cheese Base
In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 3-5 minutes until it’s bubbly. This roux will thicken your soup beautifully. Combine this mixture with your soup, bringing it to a boil for a couple of minutes until thickened.
Final Touches with Seasonings and Sour Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Keep mixing until the cheese melts into a velvety smooth blend. Finally, remove the soup from heat and blend in the sour cream. This creamy addition gives your award winning cheeseburger soup that perfect finishing touch!
With these easy steps, you’re ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade goodness that’s sure to win hearts! Don’t forget to pair with some crusty bread for that ultimate comfort food experience. Happy cooking!
Variations of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Vegetarian Version with Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Want to enjoy the rich flavors of award winning cheeseburger soup without the meat? Swap in your favorite plant-based ground meat, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. Not only does this cater to a vegetarian lifestyle, but it also helps reduce your carbon footprint. To maintain the dish's creamy texture, consider using oat or almond milk along with a dairy-free cheese like Violife.
Additional Toppings to Spice Things Up
Elevate your soup experience by adding delightful toppings! Try crispy fried onions for that satisfying crunch, or sprinkle some chopped chives for a fresh kick. If you're feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sriracha or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky heat. Feel free to experiment—after all, cooking is all about personal taste!
For more ideas on variations, check out this resource on plant-based cooking.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
If you're lucky enough to have some of this award winning cheeseburger soup left over, great! To maintain its delicious flavor and texture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Remember, the soup may thicken as it cools, so you might need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
How to Adjust for Dietary Restrictions
Making this cheeseburger soup fit your dietary needs is easier than you think! For a low-carb version, consider swapping out the potatoes for cauliflower. If you’re lactose intolerant, use lactose-free cheese and milk. Vegetarian options? Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for that hearty texture. You can also use turkey bacon or chicken ham for a leaner meat option without sacrificing flavor. Whatever your restrictions, it’s all about making this comforting soup work for you!
Serving Suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Perfect pairings with bread and salads
To elevate your award winning cheeseburger soup, consider pairing it with some delightful accompaniments. Crusty artisan bread or garlic breadsticks can soak up every creamy bite, making each serving even more satisfying. For a fresh contrast, whip up a simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds a burst of flavor and color to your meal!
Creative serving dishes to impress guests
When it comes to serving your cheeseburger soup, presentation can make all the difference. Try using deep, rustic bowls for a cozy feel or mini bread bowls to make each serving memorable. For a fun twist, serve it in small mason jars—perfect for casual gatherings. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese to amplify its visual appeal. Your guests will be talking about this meal long after the last bite! For more serving ideas, explore Martha Stewart's entertaining tips.
Time Breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for the award winning cheeseburger soup won’t take much longer than 15 minutes. A quick chop of vegetables and browning the beef will set the foundation for this delicious dish.
Cooking Time
With a cooking time of 30 minutes, your stove will work its magic as the flavors meld together, creating a creamy and hearty soup that's perfect for cozy nights in.
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of this scrumptious cheeseburger soup. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights, or when you want a comforting dish without spending all day in the kitchen. Feel free to explore more details on meal preparation here.
Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Calories and Key Nutrients
A serving of award winning cheeseburger soup contains approximately 581 calories, offering a hearty mix of macronutrients. With 38g of protein and 45g of carbohydrates, it's a satisfying meal that fills you up. Plus, you get essential nutrients, including calcium (590mg) and iron (4mg)—perfect for a comforting dinner!
Health Considerations
While this delicious soup is rich in flavor and nutrition, it's wise to be mindful of its sodium content (2144mg). For a healthier twist, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and opting for leaner cuts of ground beef. Don’t forget to balance your meal with a side salad for added fiber and vitamins! If you’re curious about heart-healthier meals, explore resources like the American Heart Association for practical tips.
FAQ about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
What’s the secret to a creamy soup?
The creamy texture of this award winning cheeseburger soup comes from a combination of Velveeta cheese and milk. The Velveeta melts beautifully, creating a rich, velvety base. If you’re looking for a more natural option, feel free to use shredded cheddar cheese. Just make sure you let it melt completely for that dreamy creaminess!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. You may also enjoy this guide on meal prep to enhance your planning skills here.
What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese?
No problem! If Velveeta isn’t available, you can substitute with equal parts of a good-quality cheddar and cream cheese. This will still give you that delightful creaminess without compromising on flavor. Just remember to shred the cheddar for easier melting!
Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Why this soup should become a staple in your kitchen
Bringing the award winning cheeseburger soup into your kitchen means embracing comfort food at its finest! With its rich blend of flavors and creamy texture, this hearty dish not only warms your soul but also impresses friends and family. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it's a versatile recipe that adapts beautifully for meal prep. Enjoy a taste of this indulgent classic, and it may just become your go-to for culinary comfort!
Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- Calphalon Cookware Set
- Staub Cast Iron Skillet
- The Recipe Critic Measuring Cups
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese cubed or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¼ cup sour cream
Vegetables
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
Others
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Cooking 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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