Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home is a hearty and creamy dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a delicious soup. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family, offering a unique twist that everyone will love. With its rich Velveeta base and mild spiciness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup can be on your table in just about 80 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and vegetables creates a flavor explosion that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste.
- Comforting and Filling: Packed with nutrients and flavors, this soup serves as a fulfilling meal on its own.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results when making Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Small skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing burning.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this soup.
Ingredients
Cheeseburger Soup, originally from Taste of Home, is a rich and creamy, cheesy soup with a Velveeta base and a mildly spicy kick. This soup is a huge hit and makes enough for a crowd.
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup onion (chopped)
- ¾ cup carrots (shredded)
- ¾ cup celery (diced)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 2 cloves garlic
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 3 cups chicken broth
For Thickening
- 4 cups peeled potatoes (diced, about 1¾ pounds)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (okay to use gluten-free here)
For Creaminess
- 12 ounces pepper jack Velveeta (cut into cubes)
- 1½ cups milk
For Seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- ¼ cup sour cream
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Sauté chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, and parsley until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Press garlic into the pot and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add chicken broth, diced potatoes, and browned beef to the pot:
1. Bring mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat; cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
While potatoes are cooking:
1. In a small skillet, melt remaining butter.
2. Add flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes until bubbly.
3. Stir this mixture into the soup; bring back to a boil and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Reduce heat to low:
1. Stir in pepper jack Velveeta cheese cubes, milk, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook while stirring until cheese melts completely.
3. Remove from heat; blend in sour cream before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.
Top with Crispy Bacon
- Adding crumbled crispy bacon on top provides a salty crunch that enhances the cheeseburger flavor profile.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Freshly chopped parsley or chives can brighten the dish and add a touch of color, making it visually appealing.
Include a Side Salad
- A light green salad dressed with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- For a fun twist, serve Cheeseburger Soup in edible bread bowls for an attractive presentation and easy cleanup.
Add Extra Cheese
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy indulgence that cheese lovers will adore.
How to Perfect Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
To ensure your Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is browned thoroughly for maximum flavor. This step adds depth to the soup.
Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh onions, celery, and carrots will enhance the taste and texture of your soup, making it more enjoyable.
Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of basil and parsley according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
Simmer for Flavor Development: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors, so consider letting it cook an extra 5-10 minutes if time permits.
Best Side Dishes for Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
Pairing side dishes with your Cheeseburger Soup can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and adds a wonderful garlic flavor.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers texture and a bit of tanginess that balances the savory flavors of the cheeseburger soup.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that complements the cheeseburger theme nicely.
Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins are delightful when paired with savory dishes like Cheeseburger Soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and cheese can be a filling side option that matches well with your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using outdated or wilted vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before cooking.
- Overcooking the potatoes: If you let the potatoes cook too long, they may become mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for tenderness after about 10 minutes of simmering.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables before adding broth enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Cooking requires precision, especially with spices and flour. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate amounts.
- Using high heat throughout: Rushing the cooking process can lead to burnt ingredients. Stick to medium heat for a controlled cooking experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
- Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home that may help you while preparing this delightful dish.
Can I customize the cheese in Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home?
You can use different types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer. Experimenting with cheese gives you a unique twist!
How long does it take to prepare Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home?
The total time is approximately 80 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking.
Is Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Make sure to store it properly in airtight containers.
What can I serve with Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home?
Consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home is not only comforting but also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. You can easily customize ingredients like cheese or add vegetables based on your preference. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home—give it a try!
Cheeseburger Soup
Indulge in a bowl of rich, creamy Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home that brings the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger right to your table. This comforting dish combines ground beef, Velveeta cheese, and fresh vegetables in a hearty broth, making it perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends. With its delightful flavor and satisfying texture, this soup is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Serve it with warm crusty bread or top it with crispy bacon for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy a delicious and filling meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces pepper jack Velveeta cheese
- 1½ cups milk
- 4 cups diced potatoes
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- In the same pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sauté onion, carrots, celery, basil, and parsley until tender (about 10 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, potatoes, and browned beef; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (10-12 minutes).
- In a small skillet, melt remaining butter and whisk in flour until bubbly; stir into soup.
- Lower heat and add Velveeta cheese cubes and milk; stir until cheese melts completely. Mix in sour cream before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
