Cheeseburger Soup: A Comfort Food Recipe

Cheeseburger Soup. Just the name conjures up images of warm, comforting evenings and satisfying meals. Forget the greasy spoon – I’m going to share with you my recipe for a truly decadent and surprisingly healthy take on this beloved classic. This isn’t your average bowl of broth; this is a hearty, flavorful explosion of cheeseburger goodness, all in a convenient, spoon-friendly package.

While the exact origins of cheeseburger soup are a bit murky, its popularity speaks volumes. It’s a testament to our enduring love affair with the cheeseburger, cleverly reimagined for those nights when you crave that familiar taste but want something a little less… messy. Think of it as a culinary hug in a bowl, perfectly capturing the essence of a juicy cheeseburger without the need for buns or utensils.

What makes Cheeseburger Soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of savory and rich flavors. The tender ground beef, simmered in a flavorful broth, is complemented by the sharp bite of cheddar cheese and the satisfying crunch of onions and other vegetables. The texture is equally appealing – a hearty, yet comforting blend of tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta or potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s a dish that satisfies both your hunger and your soul, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.

So, are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure cheeseburger bliss? Let’s get started on this incredibly easy and delicious recipe for Cheeseburger Soup!

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Hamburger buns, for serving (optional)
Burger toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.), for serving (optional)

Preparing the Beef and Vegetables

I start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, I add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens – about 5-7 minutes. This gives the onions a nice, sweet flavor.
Next, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it’ll become bitter if you do.
Now it’s time for the ground beef! I crumble the pound of ground beef into the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. I drain off any excess grease at this stage. This step is crucial for a flavorful and not-too-greasy soup.

Building the Flavor Base

Once the beef is browned, I stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, condensed tomato soup, and beef broth. This creates the rich, tomato-based foundation of our cheeseburger soup.
I then add the oregano, basil, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and salt. I give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
I bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Creating the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate bowl, I whisk together the all-purpose flour and milk until smooth. This creates a slurry that will thicken our soup.
I carefully pour the flour-milk mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This is a crucial step for a smooth and creamy texture.
I continue to stir until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If it gets too thick, you can always add a little more milk or broth to thin it out.
Finally, I stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until they are melted and the soup is creamy and cheesy. This is the moment where the cheeseburger soup truly comes together.

Finishing Touches and Serving

I remove the soup from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This resting period enhances the overall taste.
Before serving, I garnish the soup with chopped green onions. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
I serve the cheeseburger soup hot, optionally in hamburger buns with your favorite burger toppings. This is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this hearty soup. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Optional additions:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup while it simmers. A pinch of onion powder or garlic powder can also enhance the savory notes.
Storage and reheating:

Leftover cheeseburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my ultimate Cheeseburger Soup recipe! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful. That rich, savory broth, packed with the quintessential cheeseburger tastes – juicy beef, melty cheese, and those perfectly caramelized onions – is simply irresistible. It’s comfort food at its finest, a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying.

Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Despite the depth of flavor, the recipe itself is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. You probably already have most of what you need in your pantry and fridge. This means you can whip up a delicious batch of Cheeseburger Soup even on a busy weeknight, saving you time and effort without sacrificing taste.

Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly versatile. This recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily customize to your liking. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Prefer a creamier soup? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of cheese – cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Gruyère would all be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions:

I love serving my Cheeseburger Soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up all that delicious broth, creating a truly satisfying meal. A simple green salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of potato wedges or fries. And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness, while a dollop of shredded cheese adds extra cheesy goodness.

Variations to Try:

Beyond the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless! Try adding cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor. Include some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat substitutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – feel free to experiment and make it your own!

I encourage you to give this Cheeseburger Soup recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. I’m confident that once you taste it, it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. And please, do share your experience with me! Let me know how your Cheeseburger Soup turned out, what variations you tried, and what you thought of the final product. You can leave a comment below, or tag me on social media – I’d love to see your creations!

Remember to share your culinary adventures with #CheeseburgerSoupLove so I can see your delicious results! Happy cooking!