Introduction to Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
When the chilly weather rolls in or you simply crave something warm and delicious, look no further than cheeseburger soup. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, effortlessly combining the rich flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the cozy warmth of a creamy soup. Imagine tender ground beef, nutritious veggies, and melty cheese all swirling together in a thick, hearty broth—it's pure bliss in a bowl!
Why Cheeseburger Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food
The beauty of this award-winning cheeseburger soup lies in its versatility. Not only is it easy to make, but it can also be tailored to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap in lean turkey bacon, or even use chicken ham for a twist, the options are endless.
Not to mention, it's a crowd-pleaser! Whip it up for a cozy family dinner or serve it at your next gathering, and you’re sure to impress. According to Food Network, soups like this are known for their comfort factor, which can even lift your mood on gloomy days. So, grab your favorite bowl and prepare to dive into a recipe that is not just a meal, but a warm hug for your soul!
Ingredients for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Essential Ingredients for Deliciousness
Creating an award-winning cheeseburger soup starts with the right core ingredients. You'll need:
- 1 pound ground beef: The heart of your soup, providing a savory foundation.
- ¾ cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- ¾ cup shredded carrots and diced celery: These veggies contribute texture and nutrition.
- 4 cups peeled, diced potatoes: For that comforting heartiness.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Infuses flavor while keeping the soup light.
- 2 cups Velveeta or shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty element that ties it all together.
- 1 ½ cups milk and ¼ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess that makes every spoonful velvety.
Optional Ingredients for Personalization
Feel free to jazz up your cheeseburger soup by adding ingredients that resonate with your taste! Here are some ideas:
- Turkey bacon or chicken ham: For smoky, rich notes.
- Spices like cayenne pepper or paprika: Spice things up for an extra kick.
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle in some chives or parsley for a fresh touch.
This recipe offers a fantastic canvas for customization, allowing you to make it truly your own. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Creating a warm bowl of award-winning cheeseburger soup is a delightful journey that culminates in one of the coziest meals you'll ever enjoy. Follow these simple steps to ensure your soup is not just good, but truly award-winning!
Cook the ground beef
Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. This is where the soup really begins to develop its rich flavor. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks to achieve that perfect texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
This step is essential—lean beef provides both protein and a hearty foundation for your soup, so don’t hesitate to use a quality meat source. If you’re looking for tips on how to choose the best ground beef, this guide might help you along the way.
Sauté the vegetables
In the same saucepan, toss in 1 tablespoon of butter along with ¾ cup of chopped onion, ¾ cup of shredded carrots, and ¾ cup of diced celery. Add in a teaspoon each of dried basil and dried parsley flakes. Sauté these until they’re tender, which should take about five to seven minutes.
The fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen during this step is magical! This mixture not only adds a beautiful color to your soup but also layers in essential flavors that complement the beef.
Combine broth and potatoes
Next, add 3 cups of chicken broth and 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes to the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the potatoes become tender.
The broth is crucial; it forms the base of your award-winning cheeseburger soup and can make or break the final taste. Feel free to use homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor!
Create the creamy base
In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. This will serve as a thickening agent. Cook and stir this mixture until it bubbles—about 3-5 minutes. Add this roux back into your soup and bring to a boil once again, stirring for another 2 minutes.
At this point, you’re starting to build that delicious creamy base that makes cheeseburger soup irresistible. It’s an essential step, so take your time to get it right.
Final touches and serving
Now for the grand finale! Stir in 2 cups of Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese, along with 1 ½ cups of milk, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper. Continue cooking on low until the cheese melts and everything is beautifully combined. Finish by mixing in ¼ cup of sour cream, which adds an extra layer of creaminess.
Serve your award-winning cheeseburger soup warm, topped with your favorite garnishes like crispy croutons or fresh herbs. Preparing this soup not only fills your belly but also warms your heart—it’s a true comfort food that brings people together. Enjoy!
Variations on Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Elevate your award-winning cheeseburger soup by experimenting with delightful add-ins! Consider adding:
- Turkey bacon or ground turkey for a leaner option
- Diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness
- Chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Bell peppers for a colorful crunch
- Fresh herbs, like cilantro or chives, for a flavor boost
These simple additions can transform your classic recipe into something uniquely yours!
Alternative Cheese Options
Not a fan of Velveeta? No problem! Explore various cheese options to personalize your cheeseburger soup:
- Pepper jack for a creamy, spicy twist
- A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for depth
- Cream cheese for extra creaminess and richness
Whichever type you choose, the right cheese can turn this soup into a creamy masterpiece! For more inspiration on cheese pairings, check out resources like Cheese.com for expert recommendations. Enjoy finding your perfect flavor profile!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
To ensure your award-winning cheeseburger soup comes out perfectly every time, watch for these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Aim for a tender-crisp texture; they should not be mushy.
- Correct Cheese Melting: Cubed Velveeta melts smoothly, but if using shredded cheese, add it gradually to avoid clumping.
- Seasoning Levels: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking after the soup has simmered.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to customize your ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Vegetable Alternatives: Try adding corn or green beans for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk and skip the sour cream for a dairy-free version.
By keeping these tips in mind, your soup will not only be delicious but also tailored to your tastes! For more engaging cooking tips, check out our kitchen hacks.
Serving Suggestions for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Perfect Pairings for This Hearty Soup
To enhance the award-winning cheeseburger soup, consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a light, tangy green salad. These options perfectly balance the richness of the soup. For a cozy gathering, pair it with Turkey Bacon-wrapped jalapeños for an added kick, or opt for Chicken Ham sliders to create a fun twist on classic comfort food.
Garnishes to Enhance Presentation
Garnishing your soup can elevate its visual appeal. Try topping your soup with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for that creamy finish. You could also add some crispy Turkey Bacon bits for texture. These simple touches not only look great but also enhance the delightful flavors of your cheeseburger soup.
For more serving ideas, check out this article from Serious Eats for inspiration.
Time Breakdown for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation Time
Get your ingredients ready in just 15 minutes! Chopping vegetables and measuring out your ingredients will ensure a smooth cooking process. A little prep goes a long way!
Cooking Time
The magic happens in 30 minutes of cooking time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the soup simmers, turning those fresh ingredients into something truly delightful.
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty bowl of award-winning cheeseburger soup ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends! If you’d like to learn more about cooking times, check out this resource.
Enjoy making this delicious soup that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Facts for Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delightful award-winning cheeseburger soup packs in about 581 calories. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your cravings while being a comforting option for any cozy night in.
Protein content
You’ll be pleased to know that this comforting soup provides 38 grams of protein per serving, primarily sourced from lean ground beef and cheese. This makes it a fantastic post-workout meal or a filling dinner option!
Key nutrients to note
This scrumptious soup isn’t just about flavor; it’s loaded with essential nutrients:
- Vitamin A: Supports eye health with nearly 3903 IU per serving.
- Calcium: Helps build strong bones, contributing 590 mg.
- Potassium: Important for heart health, providing 1356 mg.
For those looking to balance taste and nutrition, this award-winning cheeseburger soup is a must-try! Don't forget to explore more recipes on Healthline for delicious and nutritious meal ideas!
FAQs about Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Is cheeseburger soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This award-winning cheeseburger soup is perfect for freezing. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
What can I serve with cheeseburger soup?
Pair your delicious cheeseburger soup with a variety of sides. Some popular options include:
- Crusty bread or rolls for dipping
- A fresh garden salad for added crunch
- Crispy tortilla chips for a savory twist
These sides complement the creamy richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Certainly! To create a vegetarian version of award-winning cheeseburger soup, simply swap out ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or use lentils for added protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and keep the rest of the ingredients as they are for a hearty and satisfying option.
Conclusion on Award-Winning Cheeseburger Soup
In conclusion, this award-winning cheeseburger soup not only warms the soul but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, it's an easy yet impressive dish. Dive in and enjoy every hearty spoonful!
Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- 3-quart saucepan
- small skillet
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 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.
Leave a Reply