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 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

Are you searching for a meal that combines comforting flavors with modern culinary flair? Look no further than this award winning cheeseburger soup. It’s not just a soup; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl! With the rich, savory notes of a cheeseburger blended seamlessly into a creamy broth, this dish redefines how we think about classic comfort foods.

A comforting twist on classic flavors

Imagine the delightful aroma of ground beef sizzling in your kitchen, mingling with the fresh scents of diced onions and carrots. As this soup simmers, the potatoes soften, and melted cheese swirls in, creating an irresistible lure for your taste buds. According to a study from the Food Network, comfort foods like cheeseburger soup can significantly boost your mood after a long day.

This hearty recipe is perfect not just for busy weeknights or lazy weekends but can also impress guests at gatherings. Its simplicity and flavor profile make it a great conversation starter! Plus, with easy-to-follow ingredients like Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar and a dash of sour cream, you can effortlessly elevate your culinary game. Ready to dive into this deliciously unique recipe? Let’s get cooking!

For more on comfort foods, check out this guide to 10 must-try American comfort foods.

Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When it comes to crafting your own award-winning cheeseburger soup, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that creamy, comforting flavor we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful bowl of goodness:

1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that brings a savory flavor.
¾ cup chopped onion: Adds aromatic sweetness.
¾ cup shredded carrots: For a touch of natural sweetness and color.
¾ cup diced celery: Contributes crunch and freshness.
1 teaspoon dried basil: For an herbaceous twist.
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes: Elevates the overall flavor.
4 tablespoons butter (divided): Essential for a rich, creamy texture.
3 cups chicken broth: A flavorful liquid base.
4 cups peeled and diced potatoes: The heartiness factor, making this soup filling.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: For thickening.
2 cups Velveeta processed cheese or shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese lovers rejoice—this is where the magic happens!
1 ½ cups milk: Creaminess in a cup.
¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper: For a hint of spice.
¼ cup sour cream: Stir in at the end for creaminess!

Ready to turn these ingredients into a flavor-packed soup? Let's dive into the cooking process!

Preparing Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is one of those cozy dishes that warms not just your body but also your soul. It's like a hug in a bowl. Ready to impress your friends or family with this award winning cheeseburger soup? Let’s dive into the preparation!

Brown the Ground Beef

Start with high-quality ground beef. In a 3-quart saucepan, add your pound of beef, cooking it over medium heat until it’s nice and browned. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat afterward; we want a rich flavor without being overly greasy. If you’d like, sprinkle in a pinch of salt as you cook to enhance the flavor. Once it’s done, set that beef aside, and let’s move on!

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter (this is where those savory flavors blend beautifully). Toss in ¾ cup of chopped onions, ¾ cup of shredded carrots, and ¾ cup of diced celery. Add in a teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley flakes for that herbaceous lift. Sauté the mixture until your vegetables are tender—about 4 to 5 minutes is ideal. This step is crucial as it sets the flavor foundation for your award winning cheeseburger soup.

Combine Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time for the magic to start happening! Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and add 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes to the pan. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover it, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender. This process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Create the Roux

While the soup is simmering, let’s whip up the roux. In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, cooking and stirring continuously for 3-5 minutes until it gets bubbly. This roux will help thicken your soup, giving it that creamy goodness we all crave. Once you've done that, add it to your soup, bring everything back to a boil, and cook for another couple of minutes.

Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream

The finale is here! Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar, along with 1 ½ cups of milk, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and a dash of pepper. Now get ready: as the cheese melts, you’ll smell the amazing aroma taking over your kitchen. Just before serving, fold in ¼ cup of sour cream. This adds an unbelievable creaminess that makes your award winning cheeseburger soup irresistible!

And there you have it—serve hot and watch your loved ones rave about your incredible cooking talent! Whether you pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it solo, this soup is bound to be the star of your dining table. Need more tips? Check The Food Network for additional inspiration!

Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When it comes to award winning cheeseburger soup, versatility is key! Let’s explore two fun variations that will keep your taste buds excited.

Cheeseburger Soup with Turkey Bacon

Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon to create a lighter version of this heartwarming soup. Simply cook the turkey bacon until crispy before adding it to the mix. The smoky flavor complements the cheese and veggies beautifully while cutting down on fat. Plus, you get that satisfying crunch!

Variation for a Spicy Kick

If you crave something with heat, spicy jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate your cheeseburger soup experience. Start with half a cup of diced jalapeños, adding them when sautéing the onions for a warm, flavorful base. This addition makes for a zesty twist that pairs perfectly with creamy textures. Don’t forget to check out some spicy cheese options for an extra layer of flavor!

Cooking tips and notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When making your award winning cheeseburger soup, remember the importance of using high-quality ingredients. Choose a ground beef with a good fat content for optimal flavor. Browning the beef well adds depth to your soup — don’t rush this step!

Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the veggies; bell peppers or corn can add a delightful crunch.
Cheese Choices: While Velveeta gives a creamy texture, shredded cheddar can provide a sharper taste — mix them for a flavor boost!
Storage Tips: This soup reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor.
Garnish Ideas: Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or adding crispy turkey bacon on top before serving can elevate presentations.

For more culinary inspiration, check out food blogs like Serious Eats or Food Network for tips and tricks.

Serving Suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing your award winning cheeseburger soup with the right sides can elevate your experience. Here are some delicious ideas to compliment your meal:

Crusty Bread: A fresh loaf of crusty sourdough or garlic bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up every creamy bite.
Salad Options: A light garden salad or a crisp Caesar salad can balance the richness of the soup. Adding some vibrant greens not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition.
Savory Toppings: Jazz up your soup with a sprinkle of crispy turkey bacon, chives, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra kick!
Beverage Pairing: An iced tea or a refreshing lemonade can cleanse your palate and provide a delightful contrast to the hearty flavors.

Don’t hesitate to mix and match! How will you personalize your next bowl of scrumptious cheeseburger soup?

Time details for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for your award winning cheeseburger soup is a breeze! You’ll need approximately 15 minutes to chop veggies and gather your ingredients. Having everything prepped in advance makes cooking more enjoyable and keeps you organized.

Cooking time

Once you're prepped, the cooking will take around 30-35 minutes. This includes browning the beef, simmering the potatoes, and mixing in that cheesy goodness. It's a quick process with delicious rewards!

Total time

In total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes from start to finish. A perfect time frame for a weeknight dinner or cozy weekend lunch. You’ll have hearty, cheesy soup ready to warm your family’s bellies and keep everyone smiling! Enjoy every sip of your cozy masterpiece!

For more tips on making delicious soups, check out this resource.

Nutritional Information for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When indulging in a bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup, it’s helpful to know what you’re nourishing your body with. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown that makes every comforting bite worth it.

Calories

This rich and creamy soup packs in about 581 calories per serving, making it a hearty meal option that can satisfy even the biggest appetites.

Protein

Loaded with flavor and nutrition, this soup also boasts 38 grams of protein from the ground beef and cheese, making it a great choice for muscle repair and overall health.

Sodium

Keep in mind, the sodium content is relatively high at 2144mg per serving, so if you’re watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium broth or cheese alternatives to lighten things up.

Incorporating this soup into your meal rotation provides comfort and nourishment. For more information on balancing flavors and achieving that perfect consistency, check out further discussions on nutritional balance at Healthline. Enjoy!

FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Velveeta and shredded cheddar are the favorites in this award winning cheeseburger soup, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add delightful flavors. Just remember, the creaminess might vary depending on your cheese choice, so adjust accordingly!

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef, you have several delicious options. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner take. For a vegetarian option, consider crumbling tempeh, mushrooms, or even plant-based ground meat substitutes, which can offer similar textures and flavors.

How can I thicken my soup further?

If you prefer an extra-thick consistency in your cheeseburger soup, consider these options:

Add Another Thickener: Simply blend some additional potatoes or mash a few before adding them back in.
Cornstarch Slurry: Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir it into your soup.
Cream Cheese: This adds not just thickness but also a rich flavor. Just stir in a few ounces during the last few minutes of cooking.

Feel free to adapt these methods to achieve that creamy goodness you crave!

Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

In conclusion, this award winning cheeseburger soup is more than just a warm bowl of goodness—it's a delightful blend of flavors that warms both the heart and the palate. Perfect for any occasion, this comforting dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy!

This soup is a fantastic choice when you want something hearty yet simple. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, the creamy texture combined with seasoned beef and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. For tips on elevating your soup game, check out Bon Appétit’s tips on perfect soups. Enjoy the cooking adventure, and relish each flavorful spoonful!