Cheeseburger Soup

### **How to Make Cheeseburger Soup**

#### **Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base**
1. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the soup. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and create a roux.
2. Slowly add the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. Once combined, add the diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

#### **Step 3: Add the Dairy and Cheese**
1. Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to low and add the milk and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
2. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more milk or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

#### **Step 4: Serve and Garnish**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or crispy bacon crumbles for a bit of extra flavor and crunch.
2. Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

This Cheeseburger Soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to take it up a notch:
– **Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread**: A thick slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dunking into the creamy soup.
– **Side Salad**: Pair the soup with a fresh, crisp salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
– **Pickles or Pickled Jalapeños**: If you like a bit of tang or spice, serve the soup with some pickles or pickled jalapeños on the side.
– **Chips**: Serve with potato chips or tortilla chips for a crunchy side that complements the soup’s creamy texture.

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### **Tips for Success**

– **Ground Beef Options**: You can use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content, or go for regular ground beef for more flavor. Ground turkey or chicken is also a great substitute for a leaner option.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef.
– **Cheese Variety**: While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
– **Vegetable Additions**: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery to the soup for more texture and flavor. Just dice them small so they cook quickly along with the potatoes.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

Cheeseburger Soup is a wonderful, comforting dish that combines the best elements of a cheeseburger with the warmth and heartiness of a soup. The rich, creamy base, combined with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese, makes each spoonful satisfying and flavorful. The simplicity of the ingredients, along with the ease of preparation, makes this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

This soup is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also keeps well for leftovers. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it’s just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it with your family or serving it at a potluck, **Cheeseburger Soup** is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!