Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can top the warmth and satisfaction of an award-winning cheeseburger soup. This delectable blend captures everything we love about a classic cheeseburger and transforms it into a creamy, hearty bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any day.
What makes Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup a favorite?
What makes this soup truly stand out is its rich balance of flavors and textures. Picture this: lean ground beef mingles with tender carrots, diced celery, and hearty potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious cheese broth. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The addition of sour cream and cheese enhances the creaminess while a sprinkle of dried herbs brings a burst of freshness, making every spoonful delightful.
Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this soup promises to please. Its popularity is also attributed to its simplicity—using ingredients you likely already have at home, it’s an effortless dish that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
Looking for more comfort food inspiration? Check out this cheeseburger variations guide for some delicious ideas to complement your soup night!
Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Essential ingredients for a delicious soup
Creating a delicious cheeseburger soup starts with the right essentials. For our Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
These ingredients create a comforting base that warms you from the inside out. The mix of vegetables adds texture and flavor, while the ground beef brings that classic cheeseburger taste.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
Want to take your soup to the next level? Consider incorporating these optional ingredients for some extra flair:
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese or shredded cheddar for a creamy kick
- ¼ cup sour cream for richness
- 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley for herbal notes
These little additions will elevate your soup from simply satisfying to truly memorable! For more tips on flavor enhancers, check out resources like Cooking Light.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to serving up a bowl of blissful cheeseburger goodness!
Step-by-step preparation of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Making the Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is not only easy but also a delightful experience that will leave your kitchen smelling amazing. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a warm, hearty bowl of soup that’s sure to impress!
Prepare your ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s your checklist:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of your favorite cheese (Velveeta or shredded cheddar)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Having everything prepped at the start will streamline the process, making it more enjoyable!
Brown the ground beef
Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the pound of ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat when it’s done. This step is crucial—not only does it add flavor, but it also sets the foundation for your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup.
Sauté the vegetables
In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery to the pan. Sprinkle in the dried basil and parsley flakes, and sauté until the veggies are tender, about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with the savory aroma of cooked vegetables!
Combine broth and potatoes
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes along with the browned beef. Increase the heat until it’s boiling, then reduce it to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften. The combination of broth and vegetables gives your soup a rich and comforting base.
Thicken the soup
To give your soup that velvety texture, you’ll need to thicken it. In a separate small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in the flour. Cook this mixture for 3-5 minutes until it's bubbly, and then add it to the simmering soup. This step is essential for achieving that creamy consistency.
Add cheese and cream
Once your soup thickens, it’s time to elevate the flavor! Stir in the cheese, milk, salt, and pepper, cooking until the cheese is fully melted. At this point, a taste test is mandatory—feel free to adjust seasoning to your liking! Finally, remove it from heat and blend in the sour cream for an extra creamy finish.
Serve it up!
Your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls, and consider garnishing with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for the final touch. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy dish—it’s bound to become a favorite!
Happy cooking!
Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Cheesy Veggie Cheeseburger Soup
If you're looking to sneak in some extra nutrition, try our Cheesy Veggie Cheeseburger Soup. Simply add your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to the mix. The foundation of the Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup remains untouched, but you'll get a delightful crunch and added flavor from these veggies. Plus, you can switch to a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for that melty, gooey texture everyone loves!
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
For those who crave a little kick, the Spicy Cheeseburger Soup is a must-try! Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your soup for a spicy twist. This variation complements the creamy richness of the cheese beautifully and is bound to become a favorite for spice lovers. Remember to adjust the chili according to your heat tolerance, but don't worry—this soup always leaves room for creativity!
Finding ways to adapt your soup can make it an all-time hit with family and friends. Don't hesitate, start experimenting today!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Make it in the Slow Cooker
Transform your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup into a convenient slow cooker meal. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté your veggies before adding them to the slow cooker. Pour in the broth and diced potatoes, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheeses and milk just before serving for perfectly melted goodness!
How to Store Leftovers Properly
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or even frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk for creaminess. Want to learn more about proper food storage? Check out this food safety guide.
Serving suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Perfect sides to accompany the soup
To really elevate your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, pair it with some delicious sides. A warm, crusty bread roll or garlic bread is perfect for dipping. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. You might also try sweet potato fries for a delightful crunch that complements the flavors beautifully.
Ideal garnishes for extra flavor
Garnishing your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup not only enhances presentation but also adds an extra burst of flavor. Top your soup with some shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for that classic cheeseburger feel. A sprinkle of chopped green onions or crispy turkey bacon bits can add delightful texture and taste. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of hot sauce can give it an exciting kick!
Time Breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop your vegetables, measure out ingredients, and gather your equipment. This is the perfect time to put on your favorite playlist or podcast to keep things fun!
Cooking Time
Once your prep work is done, the cooking part will take approximately 30 minutes. During this time, you’ll be enjoying the delightful aromas of beef, cheese, and spices wafting through your kitchen. Trust me, it's worth every minute as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Total Time
All in all, you’ll need around 45 minutes to make this comforting, creamy soup from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this soup is as quick to make as it is satisfying to eat!
For more delicious soup recipes, check out EatingWell and elevate your weeknight meals!
Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
When indulging in a bowl of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, you may wonder about its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick look at the important numbers:
Calories
Each serving of this delicious soup contains approximately 581 calories, making it a hearty meal choice that’s satisfying without being overwhelmingly heavy.
Protein
Packed with 38 grams of protein, this soup is not only filling but will also help you meet your daily protein needs, perfect for after a workout or a long day.
Sodium
On the flip side, it does have around 2144 mg of sodium. While it delivers great flavor, be mindful if you’re watching your salt intake; pairing it with a refreshing side salad can balance it out beautifully!
For more nutrition tips and insights, check out resources from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your soup!
FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Using ground turkey in your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a fantastic way to create a delicious, leaner version. It carries a slightly different flavor, but when seasoned well, it can be just as delightful. If you opt for turkey, make sure to add a little extra seasoning to enhance its taste.
What toppings can I add for extra flavor?
Toppings can take your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup to the next level! Consider these flavorful options:
- Freshly chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and freshness
- Crumbled turkey bacon for that smoky, savory touch
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess
- Shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for gooey goodness
- A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat
Feel free to mix and match!
How can I make this soup healthier?
If you want to lighten up your Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, here are some easy swaps:
- Use lean ground turkey instead of beef
- Replace half the cheese with a low-fat version or even nutritional yeast
- Add more vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, to increase fiber and nutrients
- Use low-sodium broth and skip the added salt
With these adjustments, you can enjoy a scrumptious soup that’s not only delicious but also guilt-free!
For more tips on healthy cooking, you might find this article from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics helpful.
Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
In summary, this Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. Easy to prepare and loaded with wholesome ingredients, it's sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra touch!
By trying this recipe, you’re not just making soup; you’re creating a memorable dining experience that will warm hearts and fill bellies. For more great recipes, check out AllRecipes or Food Network. Enjoy!
Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- Calphalon Cookware Set
- Staub Cast Iron Skillet
- The Recipe Critic Measuring Cups
Ingredients
Ground Beef and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 0.75 cup chopped onion
- 0.75 cup shredded carrots
- 0.75 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Broth and Potatoes
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
Cheese and Cream
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese cubed or shredded cheddar cheese
- 1.5 cups milk
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 to 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.25 cup sour cream
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- 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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