When it gets chilly outside, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of bacon cheeseburger soup to warm your soul. I fondly remember a time I made this soup for a gathering with friends. The savory aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in, and soon we were all enjoying the rich, creamy flavors of this comforting dish. What makes this soup truly special is its seamless blend of familiar cheeseburger tastes—bacon, ground beef, cheese, and comforting potatoes—all in one hearty bowl. Plus, it’s relatively easy to whip up, making it a great weeknight meal option for families and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This
- Makes weeknight dinners easy and delicious.
- Rich, hearty flavors everyone will enjoy.
- Minimal cleanup thanks to one-pot cooking.
- Freezes well for a make-ahead meal.
- Uses staple ingredients, keeping it budget-friendly.
"An incredible twist on traditional comfort food!"
How This Recipe Comes Together
Creating this delicious soup is a straightforward process. First, you’ll cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then use the drippings to brown your ground beef and sauté some onions and garlic for added flavor. Next, you’ll add broth and tender potatoes, bringing everything to a simmer until the potatoes are just right. Finally, mix in the cheese and milk for that luscious, creamy texture everyone loves. Top it off with crispy bacon and green onions right before serving for the perfect finish.
What You’ll Need for Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced bacon
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Ground Beef: Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese; mozzarella or pepper jack can add a fun flair.
- Potatoes: If you prefer, use sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This comforting bacon cheeseburger soup is easy to prepare in just a few steps. Start by crisping the bacon, then use the drippings to cook the ground beef. Follow with sautéing the onions and garlic, then mix in the rest of the ingredients for a delicious meal that will warm your heart.
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon and chopped green onions.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, let the bacon render its fat a little longer before adding the ground beef; this enhances the overall richness.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Ensure the bacon is thoroughly crisp before removing it. This adds more complex flavors when mixed back in.
- If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes once they’re tender.
- Stir the soup often while simmering to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; consider adding thyme or parsley at the end.
- Make sure to adjust the salt and pepper after adding the cheese and milk, as they can change the flavor profile.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This soup is wonderful on its own, but you can enhance it with some crusty bread or buttery rolls for dipping. A crisp side salad can also complement the meal nicely. Honestly, the toppings are where you can get creative—crunchy bacon, fresh green onions, or even a swirl of sour cream lend extra texture and flavor.
How to Store & Freeze
To store leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container in the fridge; it generally keeps well for 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, ensure it cools completely first, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. The soup is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor, but it can last a little longer.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your soup turns out too thick, add a little more broth or milk to reach the desired creaminess. If it tastes bland, try adjusting the seasoning—sometimes, a bit of extra salt and fresh herbs can brighten dull flavors. Overcooked potatoes might become mushy; always keep an eye on them while simmering.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:
- Veggie Addition: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Cheeseburger Variations: Use different types of cheese or condiment flavors like BBQ sauce or mustard for a unique twist.
- Grain Booster: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice to make it more filling and nutritious.
Common Questions
Can I make bacon cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be prepared a day in advance and tastes even better as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently before serving.
Can I use other meats in this soup?
Yes, ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives work well too. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat used.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef and bacon with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the heat levels. You might also consider spicing the ground beef with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
What type of cheese works best for bacon cheeseburger soup?
Sharp cheddar is traditional for flavor, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled blue cheese for a unique take.
With the right balance of flavors and textures, bacon cheeseburger soup is sure to become a staple in your household, perfect for cozy evenings and satisfying gatherings. Enjoy every creamy, savory spoonful!
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon and chopped green onions.