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; 1½ cups milk; ¼ cup sour cream; 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese (cubed or shredded cheddar cheese); ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper

Introduction to Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

If you're looking for a comforting meal that checks all the boxes for flavor and ease, award winning cheeseburger soup is your go-to recipe! This delightful soup combines the rich, savory tastes of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of a soup, creating a perfect bowlful of happiness. Imagine hearty ground beef, tender vegetables, and gooey melted cheese all coming together in a warm, satisfying dish.

But what truly sets this cheeseburger soup apart? It’s not just about flavor; it’s also about simplicity. With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this recipe makes use of nutritious elements like carrots and potatoes, making it a well-rounded option for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

So why not put on your apron and dive into this delightful dish? You can enjoy a bowl of this award-winning cheeseburger soup in about 30 minutes, and trust us, it will be a hit around your dinner table! Plus, who can resist the magic of cheesy goodness on a chilly evening? For those interested in more delicious soup options, check out this guide to classic soups.

Ingredients for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Creating a bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup starts with gathering some essential ingredients that not only enhance flavor but also ensure a hearty, satisfying meal. Below is a rundown of what you'll need to whip up this delightful dish:

1 pound ground beef
The star of your soup! You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
¾ cup chopped onion
For that aromatic base, providing depth to the flavor.
¾ cup shredded carrots
A touch of sweetness and vibrant color—plus, they're packed with nutrients!
¾ cup diced celery
Crisp and refreshing, it adds a nice texture.
1 teaspoon dried basil
A must for the herbal aroma that lifts the dish.
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Brightens the overall taste and presentation.
4 tablespoons butter, divided
Helps create a rich, creamy texture.
3 cups chicken broth
Provides the savory liquid gold needed for soups (you can also try vegetable broth).
4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
For heartiness and a comforting texture.
¼ cup all-purpose flour
This thickens the soup beautifully.
2 cups Velveeta processed cheese or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Richness and creaminess for that quintessential cheeseburger flavor.
1 ½ cups milk
Adds creaminess and balances the cheese.
¾ teaspoon salt
Enhances all those wonderful flavors.
¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
For a slight kick.
¼ cup sour cream
Finish it off with creaminess that rounds out the flavors.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating the ultimate comforting bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup. For more tips on choosing high-quality ingredients, check out this guide from Food Network. Happy cooking!

Preparing Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

When it comes to comfort food, there's nothing quite like a cozy bowl of award winning cheeseburger soup. If you’ve ever imagined the epitome of deliciousness wrapped in a bowl, this recipe is precisely that! Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that combines the heartiness of a cheeseburger with the creaminess of a warm soup.

Brown the Ground Beef

Start your journey by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. This is a crucial step—and not just for flavor! Browning the meat allows the natural juices to release, giving your soup a robust taste. After about 5-7 minutes, ensure the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess fat before setting it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the chopped vegetables—¾ cup each of onions, shredded carrots, and diced celery. The sweet aroma of sautéing vegetables will soon fill your kitchen! Toss in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley flakes for an additional layer of flavor. Cook everything until the vegetables soften, about 3-5 minutes. This step brightens the soup and adds essential nutrients.

Combine Broth and Potatoes

Next, let’s bring the heartiness to our award winning cheeseburger soup! Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and introduce the 4 cups of peeled, diced potatoes. This is where the magic happens. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover it and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender. The broth will meld flavors beautifully, creating a cozy base.

Create the Roux

While your soup is simmering, it’s time to create a delightful roux. In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden. This step thickens the soup beautifully, ensuring every spoonful is rich and creamy.

Make the Cheese Mixture

Now comes the best part—cheese! Stir in 2 cups of cubed Velveeta processed cheese (or shredded cheddar if you prefer). Add in 1½ cups of milk, along with ¾ teaspoon salt and ¼ to ½ teaspoon of pepper to taste. Stir until everything melts together deliciously, and don’t be afraid to taste-test along the way.

Stir in Sour Cream

Finally, remove the soup from heat and gently stir in ¼ cup of sour cream. This adds a luscious creaminess that elevates your award winning cheeseburger soup to new heights.

And there you have it—easy steps crafted just for you! As you savor each bowl, remember that you can easily adjust ingredients to fit your flavor profile. Enjoy your culinary success, and maybe even share it with friends for an awesome gathering! Who wouldn't want a taste of this deliciousness?

Variations on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup with Turkey Bacon

For a healthier twist, try adding turkey bacon to your award winning cheeseburger soup. Simply cook the turkey bacon until crispy and crumble it into the soup right before serving. The smoky flavor will elevate the dish while keeping it nutritious. Plus, turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing that delicious essence we love in a cheeseburger!

Spicy Cheeseburger Soup

If you crave a little kick, consider turning your award winning cheeseburger soup into a spicy delight! Start by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Not only does this variation warm you up, but it also enhances the rich cheeseburger essence you adore. Who knew comfort food could be so exciting?

Cooking tips and notes for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Creating your award winning cheeseburger soup can be a delightful experience with just a few helpful tips!

Choose the Right Cheese: For a creamy finish, go for Velveeta or high-quality cheddar cheese. Each will lend a different flavor and texture.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or corn for a personalized twist!
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply let it simmer a bit longer, or add a bit more flour in the roux.
Batch Cooking: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a large batch and store portions for busy weeknights.
Garnishments Matter: Top with crispy turkey bacon, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for that gourmet touch!

Enjoy your cooking adventure! For more insights on soup-making techniques, check out this handy guide on soup fundamentals.

Serving suggestions for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Enjoying your award winning cheeseburger soup is more than just slurping it from a bowl; it’s about the delightful experience that comes with each bite. To elevate this dish, consider these tasty serving suggestions:

Toppings Galore: Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crispy Turkey Bacon for a savory crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of mustard can also add extra flavor.
Side Dish Matches: Pair your soup with a fresh garden salad or some warm crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Perfect Beverage Pairings: Enjoy it with a light lemonade or iced tea to balance the richness. They refresh your palate, making each spoonful more enjoyable.

These simple additions transform your award winning cheeseburger soup into a meal that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Time breakdown for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation time
You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop, dice, and get all your ingredients prepped. This is the fun part where you can enjoy the aromas and flavors that will come together!

Cooking time
Once you start cooking, set aside around 30 minutes. Most of this time is spent bringing out the rich flavors of the beef and simmering those delicious veggies.

Total time
Overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. In less than an hour, you'll have a hearty, comforting bowl of award-winning cheeseburger soup to enjoy with friends or family. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch!

For more tips on how to make the most out of your cooking time, check out this kitchen efficiency guide.

Looking for more delicious recipes? This soup recipe collection has some fantastic ideas to keep your meal planning fresh and exciting!

Nutritional Facts for Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals can help you make informed choices while still enjoying delicious recipes like this award-winning cheeseburger soup. Here’s a quick snapshot of its key components:

Calories

This hearty soup packs a fulfilling 581 calories per serving, making it a perfect comfort food option for those chilly evenings.

Protein

With 38 grams of protein, this soup provides a substantial boost to your daily intake. Ground beef and cheese are fantastic sources of protein, essential for maintaining muscle and overall health.

Sodium

While delicious, the soup contains 2144 mg of sodium, primarily from the chicken broth and added salt. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider opting for low-sodium broth or reducing the salt in the recipe.

For more insights on managing sodium in your diet, check out this comprehensive guide from the American Heart Association here.

By being mindful of these nutritional facts, you can enjoy every spoonful of this delightful award-winning cheeseburger soup without compromise!

FAQs about Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To transform your award winning cheeseburger soup into a vegetarian delight, simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like crumbled tempeh or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to ensure a rich flavor. Adding beans can increase the protein content while keeping it hearty!

How can I store leftover cheeseburger soup?
Leftover award winning cheeseburger soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just remember to use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What are some toppings for cheeseburger soup?
The toppings can really elevate your award winning cheeseburger soup! Consider adding shredded cheese, crispy Turkey Bacon, fresh chives, or a dollop of sour cream. For a bit of crunch, try crumbled crackers or tortilla chips. Want some heat? A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can do the trick!

For additional tips on soup storage and vegetarian adaptations, check out resources from The Kitchn and EatingWell.

Conclusion on Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup

In conclusion, this award winning cheeseburger soup is not only a delightful comfort food but also an impressive dish to share with family and friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering. Give it a try, and savor the warmth in every bowl!