Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked bacon bits and chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, basil, parsley, and cooked ground beef to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Pour the cheese sauce into the soup pot and stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with cooked bacon bits, green onions, or extra shredded cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Success
- Add More Toppings: For a true cheeseburger experience, add pickles or a dollop of sour cream as a topping!
- Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey instead of beef and swap whole milk for a lighter option.
- Freeze It: This soup freezes well! Just leave out the potatoes and cheese sauce when freezing; add them fresh when reheating.
Why You’ll Love It
This Cheeseburger Soup delivers the best of both worlds—comforting soup and all the flavors of a cheeseburger. It’s creamy, cheesy, and hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).