Few dishes bring the same level of satisfaction as a hearty, creamy soup on a chilly day. Enter Bacon Cheeseburger Soup—a rich, indulgent blend of ground beef, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s like your favorite cheeseburger transformed into a warm, comforting bowl of soup.
Perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings by the fire, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you pair it with crusty bread or serve it as a stand-alone meal, this soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Deserves a Spot on Your Table
1. Unbeatable Flavor Combination
This soup combines the smoky, savory goodness of bacon with the creamy richness of cheese and potatoes. The ground beef adds hearty protein, making it a complete, satisfying meal.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best
Warm, creamy, and full of familiar flavors, Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket.
3. Family-Friendly
Even the pickiest eaters will love this soup. Its cheeseburger-inspired flavors make it an instant hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Easy to Customize
Whether you’re adding extra veggies, swapping ground beef for turkey, or experimenting with different cheeses, this recipe is endlessly adaptable.
Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes This Soup Special
Ground Beef
Ground beef is the foundation of this dish, providing a savory base that mimics the flavor of a classic cheeseburger. Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
Swap Tip: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version.
Bacon
Crispy, smoky, and oh-so-delicious, bacon adds depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch. Cook the bacon first to use the drippings for added flavor.
Potatoes
Diced potatoes make the soup hearty and filling. They absorb the flavors of the broth and cream, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Chef’s Tip: Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but russet or red potatoes are great alternatives.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese gives the soup its signature cheeseburger taste. Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor or mild cheddar for a creamier result.
Milk and Heavy Cream
The combination of milk and heavy cream ensures a smooth, velvety base. The heavy cream adds richness, while the milk keeps it from being overly thick.
Smoked Paprika and Garlic Powder
These spices enhance the savory profile of the soup, adding subtle smoky and garlicky notes that complement the bacon and beef.
Chicken or Beef Broth
Broth acts as the liquid base, infusing the soup with even more depth of flavor. Use beef broth for a more robust taste or chicken broth for a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Guide to Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Set the beef aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic powder and smoked paprika for an aromatic boost.
Chef’s Tip: If you cooked the bacon earlier, use the drippings instead of butter for added flavor.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, whisk together flour and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the pot, followed by the remaining milk and heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the soup begins to thicken.
Pro Tip: For an extra smooth soup, blend a portion of the potatoes and broth before adding the milk mixture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Meat and Cheese
Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
1. Crusty Bread
A warm slice of crusty bread or a buttery dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
2. Green Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.
3. Pickles
Serve a side of pickles for a playful nod to classic cheeseburger toppings.
4. Tater Tots or Fries
For an indulgent touch, pair this soup with crispy tater tots or fries.
Customization Ideas
1. Add Veggies
Enhance the nutritional value by adding carrots, celery, or spinach to the soup.
2. Spice It Up
For a kick of heat, stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Try Different Cheeses
Experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.
4. Go Low-Carb
Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Rush the Potatoes: Letting the potatoes cook fully ensures a creamy, tender texture.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s consistency.
- Keep It Balanced: Taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish with salt or spices.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain the creamy consistency.
Why This Recipe Works
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, spoonable format. The combination of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and creamy cheddar creates a dish that’s indulgent yet approachable. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect recipe to satisfy cravings for comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it a great make-ahead option. Just reheat gently to avoid curdling the dairy.
2. Can I Use a Different Protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in place of ground beef.
3. How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Clumping?
Ensure the soup isn’t boiling when you add the cheese. Stir continuously over low heat until melted.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cheeseburger Soup recipe brings together everything you love about a cheeseburger—savory beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese—in a rich, hearty soup. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing comfort food, this dish delivers every time.
Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and prepare to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself!
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Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: A Hearty Bowl of Comfort
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups chicken or beef broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onions until softened. Stir in garlic powder and smoked paprika.
3. Add diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk flour with 1/2 cup milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot along with the remaining milk and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Add the cooked ground beef, cheddar cheese, and half the crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese is melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with remaining bacon and fresh parsley.