Hearty Cheeseburger Soup is like your favorite comfort food wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket. Perfect for chillier days when you crave something rich and satisfying, this soup brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a steaming bowl. Let's dive into this easy and delightful recipe!
The star of this soup is, of course, the ground beef. It gives the soup its hearty, meaty base and is the perfect protein to anchor all those delicious flavors. Olive oil helps sauté the veggies, bringing out their natural sweetness. Onion, carrots, and garlic add aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness, while diced potatoes provide substance and make the soup filling. Chicken broth serves as a flavorful base, and whole milk adds creaminess. The flour helps thicken the soup to a perfect consistency. Shredded cheddar cheese offers that cheesy goodness, and chopped pickles bring a tangy contrast. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enhance the flavor with mustard powder and Worcestershire sauce.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. If you're feeling adventurous, serve with a side of crispy bacon bits to sprinkle on top for added crunch and flavor.
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onions, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take around 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it's nicely browned, with no pink left. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and the mustard powder. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender — about 15 minutes should do it.
While the soup is simmering, grab a bowl and whisk together the milk and flour until you have a smooth mixture. Slowly pour this into the soup, stirring constantly. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes or until it thickens to your liking.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped pickles for a zingy finish.