Name: Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
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

Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Why cheeseburger soup is a game changer for homemade meals

If you're looking to elevate your home cooking game, Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a recipe you won't want to miss. This dish combines rich, creamy flavors with the comforting essence of a classic cheeseburger, all in a warm, hearty soup. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a fantastic way to bring family and friends together around the table.

The beauty of cheeseburger soup lies in its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding different toppings like crispy turkey bacon, fresh herbs, or even diced pickles for that classic cheeseburger crunch. Plus, it's loaded with wholesome ingredients like lean ground beef, nutritious vegetables, and, of course, gooey cheese, making it not just delicious but also filling.

Many home cooks swear by this recipe's ability to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're reminiscing about summer barbecues or simply craving comfort food, this cheeseburger soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Check out more comfort food recipes here. Happy cooking!

Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Making the award winning cheeseburger soup is a delightful experience! This creamy, hearty dish is packed with ingredients that blend together for a mouthwatering flavor that feels right at home. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:

1 pound ground beef: The star protein, providing that rich flavor.
¾ cup chopped onion: For a subtle sweetness and depth.
¾ cup shredded carrots: Adds color and nutrition.
¾ cup diced celery: Brings a refreshing crunch.
1 teaspoon dried basil: A hint of herbal aroma complements the beef.
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes: Brightens up the dish.
4 tablespoons butter: For cooking and richness.
3 cups chicken broth: The liquid base that enhances flavor.
4 cups peeled and diced potatoes: For a heartiness that fills.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
2 cups Velveeta or shredded cheddar cheese: Essential for that cheesy goodness.
1 ½ cups milk: Creates a creamy texture.
¾ teaspoon salt: Seasoning that elevates all the flavors.
¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a little kick.
¼ cup sour cream: For a tangy finish.

Dive into these ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that could win awards! For tips on pairing this soup with sides, check out Serious Eats for more ideas.

Step-by-step Preparation of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Making the award winning cheeseburger soup is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating a comforting bowl of joy that brings warmth to your home. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master every step of this delicious dish.

Sauté the Beef

Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. This step is crucial as it infuses the fat and flavor of the beef into your soup. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. This not only gives the beef a nice texture but also makes your soup healthier by minimizing added grease.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add ¾ cup chopped onion, ¾ cup shredded carrots, and ¾ cup diced celery. Cooking these veggies together allows their flavors to blend beautifully. Season with 1 teaspoon dried basil and 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the carrots are tender, usually around 3-5 minutes. The aroma at this point will have you eagerly anticipating the next steps!

Combine Broth and Potatoes

Next, add 3 cups of chicken broth and 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes to your vegetable mixture. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer. This step is essential for softening the potatoes and melding the flavors together, taking about 10-12 minutes. Don’t skip the simmer—this is where the real magic happens!

Create the Creamy Base

In a small skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook this flour mixture for about 3-5 minutes until it’s bubbly—this is your roux, which thickens the soup and gives it that luscious creamy texture. Gradually whisk in this mixture into the simmering soup, and bring it to a gentle boil for 2 minutes. Reduce the heat and stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

Melt in the Cheese and Final Touches

Now comes the star of the show—cheese! Stir in 2 cups of cubed Velveeta cheese or 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese along with 1 ½ cups of milk, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a velvety blend. For an extra touch of creaminess, mix in ¼ cup sour cream just before serving. This soup is rich and satisfying, and your guests will undoubtedly be asking for seconds!

Enjoy!

Serve your award winning cheeseburger soup with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s perfect for cold evenings or whenever you want a delightful comfort meal. Happy cooking!

Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup with Turkey Bacon

If you're looking to add a flavorful twist to your award winning cheeseburger soup, consider swapping out traditional bacon for turkey bacon. The substitution adds a delightful smokiness while cutting down on fat. Simply cook the turkey bacon until crispy, crumble it, and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking for an added crunch that complements the creamy texture. For even more flavor, try adding spices like smoked paprika to your turkey bacon before cooking!

Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup Alternative

Craving a vegetarian option? You can easily transform the award winning cheeseburger soup into a hearty vegetarian dish. Replace the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a protein-packed base. Incorporate plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast to achieve that cheesy goodness. Add your favorite veggies, like mushrooms and bell peppers, to enhance the flavor profile. This vegetarian version still provides that comforting, creamy goodness while being completely meat-free.

Explore more on creative substitutions at high-authority sites like EatingWell or Serious Eats for additional inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Creating the award winning cheeseburger soup is all about layering flavors and getting the right texture. Here are some friendly tips to elevate your cooking experience:

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use freshly sourced vegetables and lean ground beef for a flavorful base. Organic options can enhance the overall taste.
Cheese Selection: While Velveeta adds creaminess, shredded cheddar brings a sharper flavor profile. Feel free to combine both for a unique twist!
Spice it Up: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. A pinch of cayenne or chili powder can add a delightful kick.
Storage Tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, but for best results, store the cheese separately to avoid clumping.

Explore more about making creamy soups on expert cooking sites like Serious Eats for additional inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Enhance your award winning cheeseburger soup experience with these delightful serving suggestions! This comforting dish truly shines when paired with some simple yet satisfying sides:

Crusty Bread: A warm, fresh baguette or sourdough is perfect for scooping up every creamy bite.
Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and your favorite vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
Toppings Galore: Elevate your soup by adding crispy turkey bacon, diced green onions, or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top—it's an instant game-changer!
Beverage Pairing: Opt for a chilled lemonade or a sparkling water with lime for a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup.

Don't hesitate to enjoy this comforting dish on a chilly evening; it promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful! Discover more about complementary flavors and pairings by exploring resources like FoodPairing.com for more insights.

Time Breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation Time

Getting ready to cook this award winning cheeseburger soup only takes about 15 minutes. So, you can spend a little time gathering ingredients and chopping veggies while enjoying your favorite playlist!

Cooking Time

Next, the magic happens on the stove for about 30 minutes. This is where your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas as the soup simmers to perfection.

Total Time

In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a hearty bowl of comforting soup ready to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat with friends!

Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, your family will surely love this creamy masterpiece. Don’t forget to check out more tips on prepping soups in advance for convenient weeknight meals on BBC Good Food.

Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Calories

This delicious award winning cheeseburger soup packs a hearty punch with approximately 581 calories per serving. It's a comforting meal that satisfies your taste buds while warming you from the inside out.

Protein

Loaded with 38 grams of protein, this soup is a great option for those seeking to build muscle or simply keep full. The combination of ground beef and cheese makes it a protein powerhouse that sustains energy levels throughout the day.

Sodium

When it comes to sodium, this flavorful soup contains about 2,144 mg per serving. If you're monitoring your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth to make this wonderfully creamy soup a bit healthier without compromising on flavor.

For more tips on balancing nutritional content while still enjoying your meals, check out Eating Well or Healthline. Enjoy this delectable soup knowing you're also getting some essential nutrients!

FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Award winning cheeseburger soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day or two in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove when you're ready to enjoy a warm, hearty bowl!

How should I store leftovers?

To keep your cheeseburger soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you're not a fan of Velveeta cheese, you can easily substitute it with shredded cheddar cheese or a combination of your favorite cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but your award winning cheeseburger soup will still be delicious!

For more tips on ingredient swaps, check out this resource. Enjoy your cooking!

Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Injust 50 words, it’s clear that this award winning cheeseburger soup has earned its accolades. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Give this delicious recipe a try and experience the comfort it brings. Your taste buds will thank you! For more great recipes, visit The Recipe Critic.