Details
6 Bowls
15 mins
30 mins
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. One of my favorite recipes to whip up is the bacon cheeseburger soup.
This dish encapsulates all the delightful flavors of a traditional cheeseburger, providing a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Imagine sinking into a cozy evening on the couch with a bowl of this creamy goodness, topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of cheese.
What I love about this soup is its incredible versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you prefer lean ground beef or a mix of meats, the options are endless.
You can even make it a bit healthier by using turkey or chicken. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option for the family and is sure to bring smiles all around the table.
The richness of the cheese blends beautifully with the savory flavors from the bacon and seasonings. Each spoonful reminds me of biting into a juicy cheeseburger, but without the mess of a bun. Plus, since it’s a one-pot meal, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bacon cheeseburger soup has a lot going for it! Firstly, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something hearty. Secondly, its flavor profile encompasses all the delicious notes of a traditional cheeseburger, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
The flexibility to customize ingredients allows you to tailor it to your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone walks away satisfied. Plus, this soup can be prepared in advance and stored, making it an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts.
What Makes Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Special
One of the most delightful aspects of bacon cheeseburger soup is its rich, creamy texture. Achieving the perfect creaminess can be accomplished by incorporating ingredients like cream cheese or heavy cream, which make it exceptionally indulgent. The crispy bacon adds not only texture but a smoky flavor that complements the beef wonderfully.
You can also customize the toppings to suit your tastes. Adding a dollop of sour cream, fresh green onions, or even diced pickles can take this dish to the next level. Each element works together harmoniously, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
Recipe Summary
This bacon cheeseburger soup marries the essence of a cheeseburger with the cozy embrace of a warm bowl of soup. It’s straightforward to make, with a manageable prep time that allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With bubbling broth and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Nutritional Benefits of Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
This warm, comforting soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Each serving is loaded with protein from the ground beef and cheese, making it an excellent choice for a filling meal. The addition of vegetables like onions and bell peppers adds flavor while contributing vitamins and minerals. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients for those who may not be fans of greens!
Calories in the soup vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used, but on average, a bowl contains roughly 400-500 calories. If you want to modify the recipe for a lighter take, consider using reduced-fat cheese or swapping some of the beef for lentils or beans to introduce more fiber without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients Overview
To craft this delicious bacon cheeseburger soup, you’ll need several key ingredients:
- Ground Beef: The base protein, bringing that classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Bacon: Adds crunch and a smoky element to the soup.
- Onion and Garlic: For aromatic depth and richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Essential for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Broth: Chicken or beef broth will help build the soup’s flavor.
- Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that lavish, delicious experience every bowl holds.
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
To prepare your bacon cheeseburger soup, follow these simple steps:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, fry the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté Veggies: Add the diced onion and garlic to the rendered fat and cook until softened.
- Brown the Beef: Add in the ground beef, breaking it apart and browning it completely.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the broth and cream, stirring to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and everything is combined.
- Season to Taste: Adjust salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings as desired.
- Serve Hot: Garnish with reserved bacon and optional toppings, then enjoy!
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Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
4 slices bacon, chopped Crispy bacon adds flavor.
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium bell pepper, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
to taste salt
to taste pepper
for garnish fresh parsley
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheese, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the cheese has melted, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use a Good Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot will help distribute heat evenly, preventing the soup from scorching.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick for your preference, add more broth or water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Quality Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and avoid any additives found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Taste as You Go: Sampling the soup throughout the cooking process helps ensure that the seasoning is just right. Adjust flavors based on your preferences!
Serving Suggestions
This bacon cheeseburger soup shines when served alongside some rustic bread or crunchy garlic toast. A fresh side salad contrasts the richness, adding a refreshing touch. For those who love a little heat, a sprinkle of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Pairing this soup with a cold beverage, like iced tea or a light beer, rounds out the meal perfectly.
Variations and Substitutions
There are numerous ways to modify this bacon cheeseburger soup to suit dietary restrictions or personal preferences:
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Spicier Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Different Cheeses: Try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store bacon cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain the creamy consistency. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
FAQ
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute! It reduces fat content and still maintains the soup’s overall flavor.
Q: How can I thicken the soup?
A: You can create a cornstarch slurry or add mashed potatoes or cream cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.
Q: What toppings work best for this soup?
A: I recommend garnishing with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh chives or green onions.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you ensure the broth and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free, this soup can easily be made gluten-free!
