Hamburger And Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food, the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, then you’re going to love this Hamburger and Cheddar Cheese Soup. It’s the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and just downright satisfying. Imagine the flavors of a classic hamburger, rich and indulgent cheddar cheese, all coming together in a bowl of velvety soup. This recipe is one that’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven, and more importantly, it’ll leave you craving more after every spoonful.

This soup isn’t just tasty – it’s easy to make, filling, and a hit with everyone in the family. Whether you’re cooking on a chilly night, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this is the kind of recipe you can count on to deliver. Let’s dive into this comforting, cheesy masterpiece.

Hamburger And Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

This soup is a delightful mashup of two beloved comfort foods – the hamburger and cheesy soup. What makes this recipe even more appealing is how you can adjust it to fit your own tastes or dietary preferences. The creamy cheddar cheese base, paired with the savory ground beef and fresh vegetables, creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. And if you’re thinking about cooking something that’s both filling and comforting, this is the recipe you’ll want to have on rotation.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s get everything you’ll need. It’s best to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can enjoy the cooking process without rushing around.

• Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for that strong, melty cheese pull)
• Onion: 1 medium-sized onion, diced finely (adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor)
• Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced (because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better)
• Carrots: 1 large carrot, diced (for a touch of sweetness and color)
• Celery: 2 celery stalks, diced (adds crunch and freshness)
• Potatoes: 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (to create a comforting, starchy base)
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer)
• Milk: 2 cups of whole milk (for creaminess and richness)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (to sauté and add extra richness)
• Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (to help thicken the soup)
• Salt & Pepper: To taste (don’t forget to season generously)
• Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon each of thyme and oregano (herbs bring a lot of aromatic depth)
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A pinch for a mild heat kick, if you like a little spice

Cooking Instructions

This recipe is straightforward, and it’s all about layering flavors for a rich, creamy texture. Let’s break down the steps:

1. Cook The Ground Beef

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Drain any excess fat, and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
   • Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Make The Base

   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat. This will help thicken the soup as it cooks.
   • Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Add the diced potatoes, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add Milk And Beef

   • Once the potatoes are tender, add the milk to the pot and stir well.
   • Then, return the cooked ground beef to the pot, mixing everything together.

6. Add The Cheese

   • Lower the heat to medium-low, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, until it melts into the soup.

7. Final Seasoning

   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavors.
   • If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to add red pepper flakes.

8. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredient Insights

• Ground Beef: Ground beef is a classic choice because it adds a savory, meaty flavor that perfectly complements the cheese and vegetables. Opting for lean beef keeps the soup lighter, but you can certainly use fattier cuts for a richer taste.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice tang and depth of flavor that balances out the creaminess. You can use mild cheddar for a less intense flavor, but sharp is what really gives this soup its signature taste.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy and hold their shape well when simmered, making them an ideal addition for texture. If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use Yukon Golds or mash part of the potatoes before serving.
• Broth vs. Stock: Chicken broth is commonly used for this recipe, but you could substitute with beef broth for an even deeper, richer flavor.

Expert Tips

• Sauté your vegetables first: This step is crucial for bringing out the natural sweetness in the onions and carrots. It’s a step you don’t want to skip.
• Use room temperature milk: Adding cold milk to hot soup can sometimes cause it to curdle. Bring the milk to room temperature or warm it slightly before adding.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make it harder to melt smoothly into the soup. Shredding your own cheddar ensures a velvety texture.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Keep an eye on your potatoes while they simmer. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy soup. You want them tender but not falling apart.
• Balance your seasoning: Taste as you go. If the soup feels too rich, a splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can help cut through the creaminess and brighten the flavors.

Recipe Variations

This soup is super adaptable, and you can easily tweak it to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

• Spicy Hamburger and Cheddar Soup: Add jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegan Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, use dairy-free cheddar, and replace the milk with coconut or almond milk. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the potatoes or use cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative. You’ll still get a rich, creamy soup without the extra starch.
• Add Bacon: If you want a smoky twist, crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving. It’s the ultimate indulgence.
• Extra Veggies: Sneak in some greens like spinach or kale, or add bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Final Words

A bowl of Hamburger and Cheddar Cheese Soup is like the ultimate cozy meal. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple weeknight dinner or a meal that impresses guests, this soup delivers every time. Plus, it’s super versatile – you can play with ingredients or make it your own however you like. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.