Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
When you’re craving comfort food but want to stick to a low-carb diet, this Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup hits the spot. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in.
I love how it satisfies my burger cravings without the carbs. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of hearty ingredients that warms me right up. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just one pot, which saves me time on cleanup.
You’ll appreciate how filling it is, too! Trust me, this soup will quickly become a staple in your low-carb menu.
Ingredients of Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious bowl of Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup, the first step is gathering your ingredients. This hearty soup isn’t only comforting but also easy to make. So, let’s round up everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just trying to impress your family with a new recipe, having your ingredients ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, it’s always fun to see what you’re working with!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 lb bacon
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 2 cups onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup carrot, sliced
- 2 teaspoons basil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli, broken into small pieces
- 2 cups cauliflower, broken into small pieces
- 1 lb cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 cups heavy cream (or half ‘n half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream (consider using lite or non-fat for a healthier twist)
Now, let’s talk about ingredient substitutes and considerations. If you’re not a fan of one of the veggies, feel free to swap it out for something you prefer. Zucchini or spinach could be fun additions!
Also, if you’re trying to cut down on fat, going for the lite versions of cream and sour cream can still give you that creamy texture without the extra calories.
And let’s not forget the cheese! A good quality cheddar really elevates the flavor of this soup, but if you want to get adventurous, a mix of cheeses could bring a whole new dimension to this dish.
Just remember, cooking is all about making it your own, so don’t hesitate to tweak any ingredient to match your personal taste. Happy cooking!
How to Make Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup
Alright, let’s plunge into making this scrumptious Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup. First off, grab your 2 lbs of lean ground beef and start browning it in a Dutch Oven. You know, that big pot that makes you feel like a real chef. Once it’s browned, don’t forget to drain the excess fat—nobody wants a greasy soup—and set your beef aside for now.
Now, it’s time to bring in the bacon. Yes, the 1 lb of bacon. Cook it in the same pot until it’s crispy and golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is going to be heavenly. Just remember to drain that too (the bacon fat can be a bit much), and then toss the cooked bacon back into the pot with your ground beef. It’s basically a meat party in there.
Next, let’s add some veggies to the mix. Throw in 2 cups of chopped celery, 2 cups of chopped onions, and 1/2 cup of sliced carrots. Sauté those together until they’re just tender. The colors and smells are amazing already, and your kitchen is starting to feel warm and inviting.
Now, sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons of basil—feel free to channel your inner Italian chef here—and pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring that mixture to a gentle boil before adding 2 cups of broccoli and 2 cups of cauliflower. Let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, but not mushy. Nobody wants their veggies to disappear in a sea of soup.
Now comes the fun part—cheese and cream. Stir in 1 lb of grated cheddar cheese and 3 cups of heavy cream (or half ‘n half if you want to lighten it up a bit). Watch as the cheese melts into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy goodness that will have you drooling.
Toss in 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, adjusting to taste. And just when you think it can’t get any better, turn off the heat and fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream, giving it that final creamy touch. Stir it all together, take a moment to admire your masterpiece, and then serve it up.
Your family is going to think you’re a culinary genius, and you might just believe it yourself for a second or two. Enjoy!
Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to customize your Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a different protein, try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Want to add more veggies? Spinach or zucchini work great!
If you’re not a fan of cheddar, swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick. For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese alongside the heavy cream.
And if you’re watching fat intake, half ‘n half is a lighter option. You can even experiment with various herbs, like oregano or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile.
Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Low Carb Cheeseburger Soup, keep in mind a few additional tips to enhance your cooking experience.
First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning; taste as you go! If you want a bit more kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
For creaminess, whisk the sour cream before adding it to prevent lumps. If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the veggies.
Finally, this soup stores well, so make a big batch; it tastes even better the next day. Enjoy your delicious creation with some low-carb bread or crackers!