Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the hearty flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth and creaminess of a soup. This rich, satisfying soup is packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a velvety, cheesy broth, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or when you’re craving something comforting. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a family-friendly dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the beef and vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, potatoes, and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Make the soup creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup becomes creamy.
5. Finish the soup: Add the sour cream, mustard (if using), paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined and the soup is heated through.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Notes:

• Cheese Options: While cheddar is the classic choice for this soup, you can also try using mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for extra richness.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup to create a creamier texture or use a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water) to thicken it further.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating.

Conclusion:

Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect blend of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender vegetables. With all the flavors of a cheeseburger in soup form, it’s a delicious, hearty meal that’s ideal for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare, flavorful, and satisfying, Creamy Cheeseburger Soup will quickly become a go-to favorite in your cooking rotation.