Contents
Introduction
Bacon cheeseburger soup is a deliciously hearty dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, comforting bowl. This unique soup is perfect for chilly days or cozy family dinners. It’s rich, savory, and filled with ingredients that will satisfy any burger lover’s cravings. The creamy base, combined with the crispy bacon and melted cheese, creates an indulgent experience that is both filling and flavorful.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground Beef: 1 lb
Bacon: 6 slices
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Carrots: 1 large, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Beef Broth: 4 cups
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Cream Cheese: 4 oz
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Dill Pickles: for garnish
Green Onions: for garnish
Prep Time
Prep time for this bacon cheeseburger soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and preparing the necessary ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 30 minutes, making the total time for this recipe approximately 45 minutes. This dish yields 6 servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for the week. Enjoy each spoonful of this creamy, delicious soup that brings the essence of a cheeseburger straight to your bowl.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot with the remaining bacon grease, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they are softened.
Add the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Incorporate the Broth and Seasoning
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the Cream Cheese
Cut the cream cheese into small pieces and add it to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
Add the Cheese
Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and the soup is creamy.
Combine the Bacon
Add the cooked bacon back into the soup, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.
Final Simmer
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional cheese and bacon if preferred. Enjoy hot.
Notes
Storage Recommendations
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Thickening Options
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the soup before the final simmer.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that involves frying food in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In the preparation of the bacon cheeseburger soup, bacon is sautéed until crisp, which enhances the flavor profile of the broth.
Simmering
Simmering is a method of cooking that involves heating a liquid just below the boiling point. For the soup, simmering allows the flavors from the ingredients, such as vegetables and meats, to meld together, creating a rich and savory broth.
Incorporating Dairy
Incorporating dairy, like cheese and cream, adds creaminess and depth to the soup. The process requires stirring the dairy carefully into the soup at the end to prevent curdling while maintaining a smooth texture.
Chopping
Chopping is essential when preparing ingredients for the soup. Dicing vegetables and bacon into uniform sizes ensures even cooking and keeps the texture consistent throughout the dish.
Layering Flavors
Layering flavors involves adding ingredients at different stages of cooking to build a rich taste. Starting with sautéed bacon adds depth, while spices and broth enhance the overall flavor as the soup simmers.
FAQ
Can I use ground beef instead of bacon?
Yes, you can use ground beef if you prefer. Just sauté it until browned before adding the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It may thicken slightly, so you might want to add a bit of broth or water when reheating.
Can I freeze bacon cheeseburger soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Store it in airtight containers, and it should last for up to three months in the freezer.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option, but it may result in a less creamy texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking, adjusting to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
The Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of bacon and cheeseburgers into a creamy soup. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, providing both satisfaction and warmth in every bowl. Its versatility allows for adjustments and additions, making it a delightful choice for various occasions.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Try a loaded baked potato soup for a creamy, cheesy alternative, topped with crispy bacon, chives, and sour cream for a comforting twist.
Chicken Alfredo Soup
Switch gears with a chicken Alfredo soup that offers a creamy base with tender chicken, fettuccine pasta, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delicious meal.
Vegetable Beef Soup
For a lighter option, consider a vegetable beef soup, filled with hearty vegetables and chunks of beef to create a fulfilling dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Explore a global flavor with a Thai coconut curry soup, featuring shrimp or chicken in a fragrant coconut milk base with vegetables and a hint of lime.
Cheeseburger Sliders
For a fun twist, serve cheeseburger sliders alongside the soup, allowing for a complete cheeseburger experience in portable, bite-sized form.
