Hearty Cheeseburger Soup

This Hearty Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, creamy soup. With tender ground beef, velvety cheese, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for cold evenings or as a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (16 oz.) package Velveeta, cubed
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 4 small potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Bacon bits
• Cheddar cheese, grated

Preparation

1. Cook the Beef: Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain any excess fat, then wipe out the skillet with a paper towel.
2. Make the Roux: Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the roux is golden brown. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the cooked beef, onion, carrot, celery, and potatoes in a slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. Season with dried basil and parsley. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Finish the Soup: Stir in the refrigerated roux mixture into the slow cooker. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Cover again and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is thick and smooth.
5. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with grated cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors.

Bonus Tip

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of sour cream to the soup just before serving. This will enhance the savory taste and add a bit of tanginess to the rich, cheesy broth.

Conclusion

This Hearty Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, warming soup. The combination of tender ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables makes it a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this delicious cheeseburger-inspired soup!