Potato Cheeseburger Soup
Are you ready to indulge in a hearty and comforting bowl of Potato Cheeseburger Soup? This creamy, cheesy delight combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the warmth of a potato soup, making it perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup not only brings the comfort but also the joy of a home-cooked meal. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Potato Cheeseburger Soup is special because it encapsulates the essence of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy soup form. The combination of ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and hearty vegetables makes for a filling dish that warms the soul. The addition of Italian seasoning and herbs adds depth to the flavor, ensuring every spoonful is satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredient Notes
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing that classic cheeseburger flavor while being easy to cook.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for sautéing vegetables and adding richness.
- 1 medium white onion: Diced for sweetness and depth in flavor.
- 3/4 cup carrots: Shredded for a touch of sweetness and color.
- 3/4 cup celery: Diced for crunch and a fresh taste.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp oregano: Adds an earthy undertone.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: A touch of spice.
- 3 large russet potatoes: Peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces, they provide the heartiness of the soup.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The base for the soup, adding moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used for thickening the soup.
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese: The key to that cheesy goodness we all love!
- 1 1/2 cups milk (2%): Adds creaminess to the soup.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: For a tangy finish that elevates the flavor.
Appliances & Accessories
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and avoiding scratches on your pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables with ease.
Build Potato Cheeseburger Soup Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, shred the carrots, and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This will make the cooking process smoother and more organized.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Toss in the diced onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Season It Up
Stir in the Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to cook with the vegetables for another minute to help release their flavors.
Step 5: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Add the bite-sized russet potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Soup
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with a small amount of the milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture back into the pot along with the remaining milk. Stir continuously until the soup thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Cheddar and Cream
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Finally, fold in the sour cream for that creamy finish.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot Potato Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and serve immediately. You can garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Make It Fit Your Plan
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein or lentils.
- Lower-Calorie Option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and low-fat cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Chef’s Rationale
This Potato Cheeseburger Soup is a versatile recipe that allows for creativity while remaining simple. The base ingredients blend together beautifully, creating a creamy texture that’s rich yet comforting. The use of sharp cheddar cheese not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each bite is packed with cheesy goodness. By incorporating vegetables, the soup becomes a well-rounded meal, making it perfect for families and gatherings.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Potato Cheeseburger Soup fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much when refrigerated, simply add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Handy Q&A
Can I freeze Potato Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.
What can I serve with Potato Cheeseburger Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with Brioche Burger Buns, a simple salad, or crusty bread for dipping.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust to your spice preference!
More from the Kitchen
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the details, it’s the perfect time to try making this delightful Potato Cheeseburger Soup. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, heat up that pot, and let the aromas fill your kitchen. You’ll be savoring each spoonful in no time! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Potato Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, shred the carrots, and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Toss in the diced onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to cook with the vegetables for another minute.
- Add the bite-sized russet potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with a small amount of the milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture back into the pot along with the remaining milk. Stir continuously until the soup thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Finally, fold in the sour cream.
- Ladle the hot Potato Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based protein.
- You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
