Creamy Cheeseburger Soup

Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Introduction
        Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that tastes just like a cheeseburger in a bowl.
        Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, and creamy cheese, this soup is perfect for a cozy
        dinner on chilly days. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—a true crowd-pleaser for family or friends.
    
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
 - 3 cups (450g) peeled and diced potatoes
 - 2 medium carrots, diced
 - 2 stalks celery, diced
 - 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
 - 1 cup (240ml) milk
 - 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
 - 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
 - 2 tablespoons butter
 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
 - Salt and pepper to taste
 - Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or mustard powder
 
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
 - Sauté vegetables: Add the butter to the pot, then sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
 - Add potatoes and broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
 - Make the creamy base: In a separate small saucepan, melt the remaining butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
 - Combine and thicken: Pour the creamy mixture into the soup pot. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
 - Season: Add salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
 - Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, crumbled bacon, or green onions if desired.
 
Description
            This soup is thick, creamy, and cheesy with a perfect balance of savory beef and tender vegetables.
            Each spoonful delivers the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger, but in a warm, comforting soup form.
            It’s an ideal dish for lunch, dinner, or even meal prepping for the week.
        
Tips
- Use sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
 - For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese along with the cheddar.
 - Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
 - Add cooked bacon or pickles on top to mimic a true cheeseburger experience.
 - For a lower-fat version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheese.
 
Corrections & Notes
- Ensure potatoes are cut evenly to cook uniformly.
 - Stir frequently after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
 - Taste before serving and adjust salt/pepper, as cheese can add saltiness.
 
Enjoy!
            Serve hot with warm crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad. This soup is perfect for sharing
            and will make anyone feel cozy and satisfied.
        



