Name: Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 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

If you’re a young professional trying to balance a hectic schedule with the need for comforting meals, the award winning cheeseburger soup is your new best friend. This dish combines all the flavors you love about a classic cheeseburger but in a convenient soup form. Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of savory beef, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables greeting you.

Why is this soup a must-try? It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients and can be prepared in under an hour! According to a recent survey from the American Heart Association, busy professionals are increasingly opting for meals that are quick to make yet nutritious. This soup ticks both boxes, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing time or taste.

Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with extras like turkey bacon or spices, tailoring it to your personal preferences. For those looking to impress friends or family, serving this award winning cheeseburger soup will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe! Dive into our full recipe and discover a comforting dish that could easily become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating your own award winning cheeseburger soup starts with gathering some key ingredients that blend perfectly to deliver warmth and flavor:

Ground beef: Essential for that classic cheeseburger taste.
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery for a hearty base.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the dish.
Potatoes: The perfect thickener and comfort food staple.
Cheese: Go for Velveeta or shredded cheddar for that gooey goodness.
Sour cream and milk: Creamy finishes for a luxurious texture.

With these core components, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends.

Alternatives for Dietary Restrictions

Got dietary preferences? No problem! Here are some swaps to make your award winning cheeseburger soup more inclusive:

Ground beef: Try turkey or veggie patties for a lighter version.
Dairy: Use almond milk or coconut milk to keep it lactose-free.
Cheese: Nutritional yeast makes for a great dairy-free cheese alternative.

These simple adjustments ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious comfort food! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out The Spruce Eats.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Creating an award winning cheeseburger soup that bursts with flavor is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon impress friends and family with a comforting, hearty dish.

Browning the Beef

The journey to a perfect cheeseburger soup begins with browning the ground beef. In a 3-quart saucepan, heat your stovetop to medium-high and toss in the 1 pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You want it to be nicely browned—this will enhance the flavor of the entire soup! After about 5-7 minutes, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. This will allow you to build layers of flavor in your cheeseburger soup.

Cooking the Vegetables

Next up is a burst of freshness. In the same saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of butter, followed by ¾ cup chopped onion, ¾ cup shredded carrots, and ¾ cup diced celery. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley flakes for added zest. Sauté these veggies over medium heat until they become tender—around 5 minutes should do the trick. This step not only softens the veggies but also allows their flavors to meld beautifully.

Combining Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time to bring in the heartiness. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and add in the 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes. Stir in the reserved beef and bring the mixture to a lively boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and allow it to simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want the potatoes to be tender enough to pierce with a fork, creating that lovely creamy base for your soup.

Making the Roux

Here comes the magic! In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Gradually stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until it’s bubbly and starting to turn a light golden color. This roux will give your soup a deliciously creamy texture. Once ready, blend it back into your soup and allow it to simmer, bringing it to a gentle boil. Keep stirring for another 2 minutes until thickened.

Bringing it All Together

Finally, it’s time to elevate your award winning cheeseburger soup to perfection. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of cubed Velveeta cheese (or shredded cheddar if you prefer) along with 1½ cups of milk, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon of pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and everything is wonderfully combined. For a finishing touch, blend in ¼ cup of sour cream for that creamy finish.

Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs or more cheese, and enjoy this delightful bowl of goodness!

Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Adding flair with different cheeses

Elevate your award winning cheeseburger soup by experimenting with various cheeses. While Velveeta offers a smooth, creamy consistency, consider mixing in sharp cheddar for a tangy punch, or gouda for a smoky note. Feta can introduce an unexpected twist, turning your soup into a Mediterranean delight. Don’t hesitate to blend different cheeses, taking cues from gourmet recipes to suit your flavor preferences!

Vegetarian or vegan versions

You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. Swap the ground beef with lentils or black beans for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a creamy touch, replace dairy with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk. Vegan cheese options are now widely available, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, plant-based cheeseburger soup without sacrificing flavor.

For more tips on creating delightful variations, explore resources on vegetarian cooking or vegan cheese alternatives.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Tips for Perfect Flavor Balance

To achieve that award-winning cheeseburger soup flavor, use fresh herbs—like basil and parsley—along with the right cheese. Velveeta gives creaminess, but mixing in sharp cheddar adds depth. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your palate. Don’t shy away from a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick; it can elevate the savory notes!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftover soup should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions. When reheating, avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture. Instead, warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. This will ensure every bowl is just as delicious as the first!

For more tips on maximizing flavor, check out Food Network and Serious Eats for expert advice.

Serving Suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Recommended Side Dishes

To complement your award winning cheeseburger soup, consider pairing it with:

Crusty Bread or Rolls: A nice baguette or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness.
Simple Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
Homemade Potato Chips: For a fun twist, whip up some crispy chips seasoned with your favorite herbs.

Creative Garnishes to Enhance Your Soup

Elevate the presentation (and flavor!) of your award winning cheeseburger soup with these delightful garnishes:

Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some sharp cheddar or a blend for a melty topping.
Turkey Bacon Crumbles: Add a savory crunch by sprinkling crispy turkey bacon on top.
Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Sour Cream Swirl: A dollop of sour cream creates a beautiful visual and a creamy finish.

These thoughtful touches can take your soup from good to extraordinary, delighting your guests with each bowl! Want more tips on enhancing your meals? Check out this guide for expert cooking tips.

Time Breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation Time

To get your ingredients ready, set aside about 15 minutes. This includes chopping onions, carrots, and celery, and dicing those hearty potatoes that will make this award winning cheeseburger soup perfect!

Cooking Time

Cooking the soup is where the magic happens! Expect to spend around 30 minutes on this. You'll sauté, simmer, and stir until everything is melded into creamy deliciousness.

Total Time

In all, you’ll spend about 45 minutes bringing this award winning cheeseburger soup to life. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering with friends. Who’s ready to dig in?

For more efficient cooking, consider prepping ingredients ahead of time, or even make it a team effort with friends or family. Need tips on which tools to use? Check out our list of essential kitchen gadgets for home cooking here.

Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When you're enjoying a bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup, it’s hard not to appreciate the savory blend of flavors. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts to help you feel good about your delicious choice!

Calories

This hearty soup serves up approximately 581 calories per bowl, making it a filling yet balanced meal option.

Protein

Packed with 38 grams of protein, the ground beef and cheese contribute significantly, helping to keep you satisfied and energized throughout your day.

Sodium

Be mindful of the 2144 milligrams of sodium in each serving. While it enhances flavor, it's wise to enjoy this soup in moderation, especially if you're watching your sodium intake.

Looking for more nutritious ideas? Check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines for insights on balanced eating! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your award winning cheeseburger soup!

FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Can I make cheeseburger soup in advance?
Absolutely! Award winning cheeseburger soup is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop. Just keep in mind—since potatoes can absorb liquid, you may want to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

What can I use instead of Velveeta?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Velveeta in your cheeseburger soup, shredded cheddar cheese works wonderfully. For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some cream cheese or American cheese. Both options will retain that delightful cheesy flavor while giving you the comfort of homemade goodness.

How spicy can I make my cheeseburger soup?
Feeling adventurous? You can spice up your award winning cheeseburger soup by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat tolerance. Experimentation is encouraged—make it your own!

Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Final thoughts on making this comforting dish

In conclusion, the award winning cheeseburger soup is a true crowd-pleaser that combines ease with rich flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, you'll enjoy hearty ingredients bringing warmth to your table. Don't forget to customize it with toppings like crispy turkey bacon or fresh herbs to elevate your experience!

For tips on experimenting with variations, check out these creative soup ideas. Enjoy your cooking journey!