Introduction
Discover the warmth and satisfaction of a meal that embodies the essence of a cheeseburger. This Cheeseburger Soup without a bun is a flavor-packed bowl of comfort that combines all your favorite cheeseburger elements into a rich, creamy soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, each spoonful delivers the delightful taste of a classic burger while being easy to prepare and enjoy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the preparation process!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 3/4 cup shredded carrot
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Finishing Touch:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Embrace the comforting flavors of cheeseburgers in a delightful soup that your family will love. Enjoy this rich, creamy treat bathed in the nostalgic taste of a classic burger, all in a warm and cozy bowl! Perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and set the meat aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions, shredded carrots, diced celery, and dried parsley flakes. Cook the mixture until the veggies are tender, roughly 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the vegetable mixture. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Roux
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking it for about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency. Cook this mixture until it slightly thickens, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and creamy.
Step 6: Combine the Cheese Sauce
Pour the prepared cheese sauce into the soup pot containing the vegetable and potato mixture. Stir well to combine, then add the salt and black pepper for seasoning.
Step 7: Incorporate the Ground Beef and Sour Cream
Reduce the heat to low and blend in the cooked ground beef and the sour cream. Stir the soup until it is smooth and heated thoroughly.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the soup hot, enjoying all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting bowl.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or corn, or by using ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping.
Dietary Considerations
For a lighter version, consider using lean ground beef or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You can also use low-fat milk and cheese to reduce fat content.
Cook techniques
Brown Ground Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. This adds a rich flavor to the soup base.
Sauté Vegetables
After draining the cooked beef, use the same pot to sauté diced onions, carrots, celery, and dried parsley until they are tender. This sweetens and enhances the flavor of your soup.
Simmer Potatoes
Add diced potatoes and chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
Create a Roux
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and then stir in flour to make a roux. Cook it for about 2 minutes, which will help thicken the soup when combined with the milk.
Make the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in milk to the roux, stirring until it thickens slightly. Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce.
Combine Ingredients
Pour the cheese sauce into the soup pot with the cooked vegetables and diced potatoes. Stir well to combine, then add the cooked ground beef along with salt and pepper for seasoning.
Finish with Sour Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in sour cream for added creaminess and tang, ensuring everything is heated through before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cheese, use leaner cuts of ground beef, and add more vegetables to increase nutrition while lowering calories.
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, the texture of the cream and cheese may change slightly upon reheating.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Certainly! Other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, can be used, but they may alter the flavor and creaminess of the soup.
What can I serve with cheeseburger soup?
This soup pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Soup Variations
Experiment with added ingredients like diced tomatoes, pickles, or even chopped bacon for a twist on the traditional flavor.
Alternative Soup Recipes
Try other comforting soups, such as creamy potato soup or chili, for a warm meal on a chilly day.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup topped with crispy bacon bits, diced green onions, or additional cheese for an extra indulgent experience.
