Cheeseburger Soup Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Are you craving that juicy cheeseburger taste but without the bun? Then look no further! This cheeseburger soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch. It's packed with all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger – the savory beef, melty cheese, and tangy pickles – all simmered into a creamy, comforting soup. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and can be easily customized to your liking. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure cheeseburger heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This cheeseburger soup recipe requires simple, readily available ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show! Choose a lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes of the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: Provides the base for the soup. You can substitute with chicken broth for a slightly different taste.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and texture.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup: This adds richness and thickness to the soup.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The essential cheeseburger element! Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles: Brings that signature cheeseburger tang.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and a touch of tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard: Adds a subtle kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, chopped green onions, extra cheese, bacon bits – let your creativity flow!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious cheeseburger soup:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), condensed tomato soup, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and dried mustard. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in Cheese and Pickles: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped dill pickles. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Include diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra nutrients and texture.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for an even richer and creamier soup.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
Why This Recipe Works:
This cheeseburger soup recipe is a winner because it's:
- Simple and easy: The recipe uses readily available ingredients and requires minimal cooking skills.
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of savory beef, melty cheese, and tangy pickles creates a truly delicious and comforting soup.
- Versatile and customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for meal prepping: This soup tastes even better the next day!
Enjoy your delicious homemade cheeseburger soup! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out. We'd love to hear from you!
