There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of soup that mimics the flavors of your favorite fast-food indulgence—without the guilt. This easy keto cheeseburger soup is like a comforting hug on a chilly day, packed with cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients. I once served it during a surprise snowstorm, and let me tell you, even the neighbors came knocking for a taste!
Steps
- Begin by cooking diced bacon in a pan until crispy, then set aside. In the same pan, brown a pound of ground beef, adding salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and sauté any desired vegetables, such as onions or diced serrano chilies, until soft. Stir in 4 cups of broth (either chicken, beef, or a mix of both).
- Add the cooked ground beef to the pot, followed by 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 1 cup each of half-and-half and milk. This will thicken the soup.
- Stir in 2 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and any additional cheese if desired. Allow it to melt completely into the soup, stirring occasionally.
- For added flavor, incorporate the cooked bacon into the pot. If you prefer, add diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
- Simmer the soup until it reaches the desired consistency, then serve hot. Enjoy your cheeseburger soup with your favorite garnishes or sides.
Ingredients
- 1/3 pound diced and cooked bacon
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 diced serrano chilies
- 4 cups broth (half chicken and half beef, or your choice)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Garlic powder to taste
- 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2/3 of a large block of Velveeta cheese
- Optional: Diced tomatoes
FAQ
- Can I make Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can prepare Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker. Simply cook the ground beef separately before adding it to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Consider using cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
- If you’re out of sour cream, you can use a combination of half-and-half and milk as an alternative. This substitution offers a creamy texture while maintaining great flavor.
- Can I add extra ingredients like bacon or tomatoes?
- Absolutely! Many people enjoy adding cooked bacon to enhance the flavor. Diced tomatoes can also be included for an extra layer of taste. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Does this soup taste like a traditional cheeseburger?
- Yes, many reviewers mention that the soup captures the essence of a cheeseburger. The combination of beef, cheese, and broth creates a comforting and familiar flavor profile reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.
- Can I use different types of cheese in this soup?
- While sharp cheddar is commonly used, you can experiment with other cheeses like Velveeta for a creamier texture. Adjust the quantity as needed to maintain the desired flavor and consistency.
Tips
- Enhance Flavor with Bacon: Consider adding diced and cooked bacon to the soup for an extra layer of flavor. You can also use some of the bacon grease to sauté the vegetables, enriching the overall taste.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: For a thicker consistency, mix a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch directly into the milk or half-and-half instead of using flour. This will give the soup a creamy texture without making it too heavy.
- Broth Mixing for Depth: Try using a mix of chicken broth and beef broth to add depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor. Adjust the ratio based on your preference to balance the flavors.
- Cheese Selection: While sharp cheddar is a popular choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like Velveeta for a creamier finish. Adjust the cheese quantity to control the richness and fat content according to your taste.
Equipment
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – If you plan on making the soup using this method.
- Immersion Blender – Useful if you want to blend any part of the soup for a smoother texture.
- Large Soup Pot – If you’re cooking the soup on the stove and don’t have a large enough pot.
- Cheese Grater – If you need to grate cheese from a block.
- Ladle – For serving the soup easily.
