Easy Cheesy Hamburger Soup Recipe

Introduction

Love With Recipes, your trusted culinary resource, presents an all-encompassing guide to creating the ultimate comfort food: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Soup. This dish embodies the essence of hearty, satisfying meals that are quick to prepare yet rich in flavor and texture. Combining ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a velvety cheese infusion, this soup is designed to warm your soul during cold days or serve as a fulfilling weeknight dinner. Its simplicity, affordability, and adaptability make it a staple for families seeking wholesome, delicious food with minimal fuss. Here, you’ll find detailed instructions, tips, nutritional insights, and customization options to make this recipe perfectly suited to your tastes and dietary needs.

Time

Preparation Time

Approximately 15 minutes

Cooking Time

About 30 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 5-quart stock pot or large heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (for tomatoes and cheese)
• Whisk (for mixing flour and milk)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula (for stirring)
• Liquid measuring cup
• Stove or cooktop
• Optional: immersion blender (for optional pureeing or thickening)

Tags

Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Recipes, Hearty Soups, Cheese Lover, Budget-Friendly, One-Pot Meal, Weekend Cooking, Winter Recipes, Kid-Friendly

Serving Size

Serves 6 generous portions, approximately 1 bowl per serving

Difficulty Level

Easy — suitable for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike, emphasizing quick prep and straightforward steps without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Dairy (Velveeta cheese, milk), Gluten (pasta), Soy (possible in processed cheese)
• Note: Can be modified to accommodate allergies by substituting ingredients (see tips and tricks).

Dietary Preference

Contains dairy and gluten; can be adapted for vegetarian or low-carb diets with replacements (see enhancements section).

Course

Main Course — Soup/Stew

Cuisine

American Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparation of Ingredients

Begin with gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment. Wash, peel, and chop the vegetables according to the specifications. Finely chop the onion and garlic, slice the carrots and celery stalks, and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Measure out the liquids and set everything within reach to streamline the cooking process. This prep stage is crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient cooking experience, especially when working with multiple ingredients.

2. Browning the Ground Beef

Heat your large stock pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it begins to cook. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is uniformly browned with no pink remaining. Proper browning develops flavor through the Maillard reaction, which enhances the overall depth of the soup. Drain excess fat if necessary, especially if using higher-fat ground beef, to prevent the soup from becoming greasy. Leaving a small amount of fat is acceptable as it adds flavor, but too much can dilute the dish.

3. Sautéing the Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step unlocks the aromatic oils and releases flavors that serve as the base for the soup. Be careful not to burn the garlic; reduce heat slightly if necessary.

4. Incorporating Tomatoes, Water, and Broth

Next, stir in the Italian-style diced tomatoes, including their juices, to add acidity and richness. Pour in the water, then add the beef bouillon cubes. Stir well to dissolve the cubes and create a flavorful broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to begin softening, approximately 15 minutes.

5. Adding Vegetables

Introduce the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes into the simmering broth. Cover the pot partially and cook for another 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork. During this stage, the flavors deepen, and the vegetables absorb the savory broth, creating a hearty foundation for the pasta and cheese components.

6. Cooking the Pasta

Once the vegetables are tender, add the uncooked small shell pasta directly into the soup. Stir to distribute evenly. Continue to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente—cooked through but still slightly firm to the bite. This timing prevents overcooking the pasta, which could turn mushy if left for too long, especially once the cheese is added.

7. Melting the Velveeta and Achieving Creaminess

Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes, allowing them to melt gradually into the hot soup. Use a whisk or spoon to mix thoroughly until the cheese is completely incorporated, creating a smooth, cheesy sauce that coats the vegetables, pasta, and beef. For an even creamier texture, consider adding a splash of extra milk or cheese varieties like shredded cheddar or mozzarella based on preference.

8. Thickening the Soup

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of milk with the 3 tablespoons of flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering soup while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust the amount of milk and flour if you prefer a thicker or thinner soup, keeping in mind that the soup will thicken further as it cools.

9. Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the broth may already be salty due to the bouillon cubes and cheese, so season gradually. Ladle the hot, cheesy soup into bowls. For presentation, garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or shredded cheese for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with crusty bread, garlic bread, or crackers for a complete meal.

Preparation Tips

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or peas to increase nutrition and variety.
• Cheese Adjustments: For a richer, creamier soup, add more Velveeta or mix in shredded cheeses like sharp cheddar or mozzarella. Use high-quality cheeses for better flavor.
• Spice It Up: Introduce red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños during sautéing for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon cubes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace small shell pasta with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Nutritional Information

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Tips and Tricks

• Cooking Pasta Separately: For even better control over pasta texture, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before serving. This prevents overcooking and keeps the pasta from absorbing too much broth.
• Flavor Boosters: Incorporate herbs like thyme or basil during simmering for added depth. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance umami flavor.
• Texture Variations: For a creamier, chowder-like consistency, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance; flavors meld beautifully overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk if it thickens too much.

Add-ons and Variations

• Top with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
• Serve with crusty artisan bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
• Mix in cooked beans for added protein and fiber.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.

Side Dishes

• Crusty French bread or sourdough
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Pickles or fermented vegetables for tanginess

Improvements and Customizations

• Reduce sodium by using homemade broth or low-sodium bouillon cubes.
• For a low-carb variation, substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.
• Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Incorporate additional herbs like oregano, parsley, or dill for varied flavor profiles.

Save and Store

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk if necessary to loosen the consistency. Reheating in the microwave is also possible, but do so in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles or additional vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors develop even more overnight. Prepare according to instructions, cool completely, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Replace the small shell pasta with gluten-free pasta or cooked rice. Ensure all other ingredients, such as bouillon cubes and cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly on the stove.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Soup from Love With Recipes exemplifies comfort, flavor, and versatility. Its straightforward preparation invites cooks of all levels to create a nourishing meal that can be customized endlessly. Whether served as a cozy winter dinner or a quick weeknight supper, this soup offers satisfying richness and wholesome ingredients in every bowl. The combination of tender vegetables, savory beef, and melted cheese makes it a perennial favorite. Experiment with add-ons, adjust seasonings, and enjoy the process of bringing this hearty dish to life. Remember, the key to a perfect soup lies in quality ingredients, attentive seasoning, and a bit of personal flair. Happy cooking!

References

• American Heart Association. (2020). Nutritional guidelines for heart-healthy eating.
• Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Food labeling and allergen information.