This is such a hearty soup, esp for winter! We always scrape our bowls clean when this is served!

Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of a warm bowl of soup. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or as a main course for a casual lunch. The origins of this soup can be traced back to American diners and burger joints, where it was originally created as a way to capture the most loved elements of a cheeseburger in a bowl. With its rich and creamy texture, hearty chunks of beef, vegetables, and the addition of melted cheese, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

When serving Creamy Cheeseburger Soup, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or dinner rolls. The bread can be used for dipping into the soup, allowing you to savor every delicious bite. Another excellent option is to serve this soup with a side salad, such as a crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the rich and cheesy soup, creating a well-balanced meal. Additionally, a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries can also be a delightful accompaniment, adding a touch of indulgence to the overall dining experience.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup diced celery
3/4 cup shredded carrots
2 tablespoons butter
3 cups chicken broth
2 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon each of dried parsley flakes and basil
4 cups diced potatoes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
12 ounces pepper jack cubed Velveeta cheese
1.5 cups milk
1/4 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

2. In the same pot, add chopped onions, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, dried parsley flakes, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.

3. Add garlic into pot and cook until fragrant for 1 minute.

4. Pour chicken broth, diced potatoes, and browned beef. Bring everything to a boil.

5. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

6. In a separate skillet, melt remaining butter and stir in flour. Cook for 4 minutes until bubbly. Add this mixture into the soup. Bring the soup to a boil again and cook for 2 minutes.

7. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cubed Velveeta, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and cheese melted.

8. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated.

Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious Cheeseburger Soup!

Note: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even pickles to create your own unique twist on the classic Cheeseburger Soup.