Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Cheddar Bath With Pickle Relish

I always look forward to making a meal that warms us from the inside out, and this hearty dish does just that.

The aroma of savory beef and melting cheese, mingling with a hint of tangy pickle, fills my kitchen when this amazing cheeseburger soup recipe with its rich Cheddar bath and zesty pickle relish comes together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I need a family-friendly dinner that feels like a treat, without hours of effort. My family asks for this satisfying meal regularly, loving its comforting flavors and how easy it is to enjoy. Get ready for a delicious journey!

Ingredient Essentials for Your Cheeseburger Soup

Gathering the right components is key to a truly unforgettable cheeseburger soup. Here’s what you’ll need to create that perfect hearty bowl:

• 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (I often use 85/15 for flavor, ensuring a juicy burger-like base)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup / 160g; for aromatic depth)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup / 120g; adds a touch of sweetness and color)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup / 100g; for earthy notes)
• 2-3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups / 450g; provides creamy body and heartiness, or use Yukon Gold for a slightly richer texture)
• 4 cups (960ml) beef broth (look for a low-sodium option to control seasoning, or use chicken broth if that’s what’s in the pantry)
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (for classic savory notes)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (a must for robust flavor)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly ground is always best)
• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened (cut into cubes for easy melting; essential for that velvety smooth Cheddar bath)
• 2 cups (240g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded melts best for our irresistible Cheddar bath!)
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%, or use half-and-half for extra richness if that’s what’s in the fridge)
• ¼ cup (60g) dill pickle relish (the secret ingredient for authentic tang; I always keep a jar in my fridge for this recipe!)
• Salt to taste

Premium Swaps & Dietary Adjustments

Tailor your cheeseburger soup recipe for lifestyle preferences with these simple adjustments:

• Richer flavor: Select quality organic ground beef for a deeper taste.
• Higher protein: Increase lean ground beef or add ground turkey for a protein-packed dinner.
• Low-carb/Keto: Substitute diced potatoes with cauliflower florets to keep it a low-carb meal.

Freshness & Sourcing Tips

Quality ingredients truly shine in this cheeseburger soup recipe.

• Opt for fresh, crisp vegetables from local markets for optimal flavor and texture.
• Good quality ground beef offers a robust, satisfying flavor profile to your soup.
• Don’t skimp on sharp cheddar for the “Cheddar Bath” – it makes a superior difference in creaminess and taste.

Cooking Steps Made Simple for Your Cheeseburger Soup

Making this hearty cheeseburger soup is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious, family-friendly meal:

1. Step 1: Brown the Beef (10 mins) In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s beautifully browned and no pink remains. The meat should sizzle and develop a rich aroma. Drain any excess fat thoroughly; this is crucial for a less greasy soup. If it seems like too much fat remains, you can carefully blot it with paper towels before moving on.
2. Step 2: Sauté Veggies (8 mins) Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 6-8 minutes. The onion should turn translucent.
3. Step 3: Simmer the Base (20-25 mins) Stir in the beef broth, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The broth will begin to thicken slightly.
4. Step 4: Create the Cheddar Bath (5 mins) Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy base. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it’s completely melted and integrated, making a luscious, velvety texture. Pour in the milk and stir until the soup is rich and creamy.
5. Step 5: Finish with Relish (1 min) Gently fold in the dill pickle relish. The soup should smell wonderfully tangy and savory. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt or pepper to your preference. I sometimes add a splash of pickle juice for an extra zing!

Speed & Flavor Adjustments

Boost convenience or flavor for your cheeseburger soup recipe with these simple tweaks:

• Speed it up: Use pre-chopped mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) for quicker prep.
• Extra tang: Add a splash of pickle juice with the relish for a more pronounced cheeseburger flavor.
• Make it spicy: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a welcome kick.

Best Times to Enjoy & Serving Suggestions

This hearty cheeseburger soup recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect fit for many occasions. I find it’s a true lifesaver for those busy weeknight dinners when you need something satisfying and easy.

• Situations: Ideal for cozy family meals, lively game day gatherings, or as a robust meal prep component to enjoy throughout the week.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve this creamy soup with a side of crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or a sprinkle of homemade croutons. Top with extra shredded cheddar or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
• Storage: Once cooled, store your cheeseburger soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Perks of This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Embrace easy healthy meals with this delightful cheeseburger soup recipe. It offers a wonderful balance of satisfying flavor and nourishing ingredients, making it a smart choice for your family’s table.

• High in Protein: With its lean ground beef foundation, this soup provides substantial protein, supporting muscle health and promoting a feeling of fullness. It’s a fantastic option for protein-packed dinners.
• Customizable Veggies: Easily incorporate more nutrients by adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, a clever way to boost healthy eating for the entire family.
• Satisfying & Comforting: Enjoy a warm, hearty bowl that delivers comfort without feeling overly heavy, perfect for those craving delicious family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: An excellent choice for make-ahead family meals, and easily adaptable for diabetic-friendly options by swapping potatoes for cauliflower.

Why This Recipe Makes Life Easier

This cheeseburger soup recipe is designed with your busy life in mind, offering a convenient and delicious solution for family meals. It’s truly a game-changer for stress-free cooking.

• Budget-Friendly: Crafted from common, affordable ingredients, this recipe provides a satisfying meal that won’t strain your grocery budget.
• Flexible & Adaptable: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or specific dietary needs, making it a truly versatile dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, ensuring joyful mealtimes and eliminating dinner dilemmas.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Ideal for busy lifestyles, this hearty soup is perfect for meal prepping for the entire week, simplifying your cooking routine.

Kitchen Secrets, Adjustments & Safe Swaps

Unlock even more flavor and perfect texture for your cheeseburger soup recipe with these tried-and-true kitchen secrets.

• For extra creamy texture: Always keep the heat gentle after adding the cheese; don’t boil the soup, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate. I always reduce the burner to low before stirring in my cheddar.
• Flavor boosters: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of mustard powder can deepen the ‘burger’ flavor.
• Creative add-ins: For variety, consider stirring in cooked small pasta, sweet corn, or diced fire-roasted tomatoes.
• Allergy-aware: Use dairy-free cheese and milk if needed. For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients, especially your broth, are certified gluten-free.

Reader Questions About Cheeseburger Soup

Q: Can this cheeseburger soup recipe be prepped ahead for the week?

Absolutely! For a quick meal prep recipe, you can cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables in advance. Then, when ready to serve, simply add the liquids and cheese. Or, make the entire cheeseburger soup, cool it, and portion it for easy reheating later in the week.

Q: Where can I buy Cheddar for the “Cheddar bath” online?

You can find high-quality cheddar cheese for your creamy “Cheddar bath” at most major online grocers. Services like Instacart, Amazon Fresh, or your local supermarket’s online delivery platform offer a wide selection. Look for sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for the best flavor in your cheeseburger soup.

Q: Is this cheeseburger soup a healthy option for weight loss diets?

Yes, with mindful adjustments! To make this a lighter cheeseburger soup recipe, opt for extra-lean ground beef, swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets, and use skim milk. These small changes keep it satisfying while fitting into a low-carb meals or healthy eating plan.

Q: What kind of pickles work best for the relish?

Dill pickles are definitely the way to go for that authentic cheeseburger flavor in this recipe. You can use a good quality store-bought dill pickle relish for convenience, or for a fresher taste, finely chop your own dill pickles. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid.

Q: Can I make cheeseburger soup in an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?

Yes! For Instant Pot: brown beef, sauté veggies, then add other ingredients (no cheese/milk yet) and pressure cook. For slow cooker: brown beef/veg, add to cooker with liquids, then stir in cheese at the end. I find this approach makes this cheeseburger soup recipe so convenient for busy family dinners.

Q: How do I prevent the cheeseburger soup from becoming greasy?

Draining all excess fat from the ground beef after browning it is the most crucial step. I always give it a good rinse too, for even less grease. Using lean ground beef (90/10 or higher) also significantly helps reduce the overall fat content in your delicious soup.

This cheeseburger soup recipe is truly a family favorite, delivering big on flavor, comfort, and convenience. Dive into its creamy Cheddar bath with that unique pickle relish twist for an effortless, family-friendly meal.

Don’t wait — add this hearty soup to your weekly meal plan now, and save this easy recipe on Pinterest for quick access!

cheeseburger soup recipe Cheddar Bath With Pickle Relish

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• Author: Alyssa Bennett
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This cheeseburger soup is a hearty, family-friendly dish featuring savory ground beef, a rich Cheddar cheese bath, and a tangy dill pickle relish, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tbsp olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 recommended)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (cubed)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%, or half-and-half)
• 0.25 cup dill pickle relish
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Brown The Beef: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften (6-8 minutes).
3. Simmer The Base: Stir in beef broth, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Create The Cheddar Bath: Reduce heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until completely melted. Pour in milk and stir until the soup is rich and creamy.
5. Finish With Relish: Gently fold in dill pickle relish. Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper) as needed.

Notes

For dietary adjustments, use cauliflower for low-carb or ground turkey for higher protein. Ensure high-quality ingredients like fresh vegetables and sharp cheddar for best flavor. Speed up prep with pre-chopped mirepoix, or add pickle juice/red pepper flakes for extra tang/spice.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx 360 ml)
• Calories: 550 calories
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg