Cheeseburger French Fry Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups frozen french fries, cooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: Chopped bacon, sour cream, green onions

Step-by-Step

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir well to combine.

4. Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. While the soup is simmering, cook the frozen french fries according to package directions.

8. Once the soup has simmered and the fries are cooked, add the cooked french fries to the soup.

9. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

10. Ladle the Cheeseburger French Fry Soup into bowls.

11. Top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as chopped bacon, sour cream, and green onions.

12. Serve immediately and enjoy!

A Comfort Food Mashup: Exploring Cheeseburger French Fry Soup

Cheeseburger French Fry Soup is a delightful collision of classic comfort foods. It takes the essence of a juicy cheeseburger and the satisfying crunch of french fries. Then, it combines them into a warm, inviting soup.

This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. It offers a creative and fun way to enjoy familiar flavors in a new format. This soup is surprisingly easy to make and customizable to your liking.

The Appeal of a Soup-ified Cheeseburger

What makes this soup so appealing? It’s the familiar taste of a cheeseburger, but in a cozy, spoonable form. The beefy broth, tangy mustard, and melted cheese create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.

The addition of french fries adds a textural element. They soften in the soup, yet retain a slight bite. The optional toppings add layers of flavor. This is a recipe that is both easy to love and simple to adapt.

This soup is a great way to use up leftover cooked french fries. It adds another layer of value to a dish already brimming with goodness.

Customizing Your Cheeseburger Soup Experience

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to create your own signature version.

H3: Beef Variations:

You can use ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat as a substitute for ground beef. For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.

H3: Cheese Choices:

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

H3: Topping Ideas:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings. Consider adding diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crispy fried onions, or a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Soup Perfection

Making Cheeseburger French Fry Soup is straightforward. However, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure a perfect bowl every time.

H3: Browning the Beef Properly:

Browning the ground beef is crucial for developing flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will steam the beef rather than brown it. Work in batches if necessary.

H3: Simmering for Flavor Development:

Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes is essential. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.

H3: Adding the Fries at the Right Time:

Add the cooked french fries towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents them from becoming too soggy. If you prefer a crispier fry, consider adding them just before serving.

Making It Ahead and Storing Leftovers

Cheeseburger French Fry Soup is a great make-ahead meal. It also stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

H3: Preparing Ahead:

You can prepare the soup base (everything except the french fries and cheese) up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup, add the french fries and cheese, and enjoy.

H3: Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The french fries may become softer over time.

H3: Reheating Tips:

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little beef broth or water to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

Cheeseburger French Fry Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own. However, there are several ways to enhance the dining experience.

H3: Complementary Sides:

Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing also pairs well.

H3: Drink Pairings:

A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea complements the richness of the soup. For adults, a light beer or a dry cider can also be a good choice.

H3: Creative Presentations:

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of burger sauce for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve in individual bowls or in a large tureen for a family-style meal.

Healthier Variations and Dietary Considerations

While Cheeseburger French Fry Soup is a comfort food classic, there are ways to make it healthier and accommodate different dietary needs.

H3: Lower-Fat Options:

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content. Trim any excess fat from the meat before cooking. Use low-fat cheese and substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream.

H3: Gluten-Free Adjustments:

Use gluten-free french fries. Ensure that the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup are also gluten-free. You can also make a homemade cream sauce using gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

H3: Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptations:

Use plant-based ground meat substitute for ground beef. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Use vegan cheese and vegan sour cream. For the cream of mushroom soup, either find a vegan substitute or make your own using plant-based milk and mushrooms.

FAQ About Cheeseburger French Fry Soup

What kind of french fries work best?

Any kind of french fries will work, but thicker-cut fries tend to hold their shape better in the soup. Crispy fries will add a nice textural contrast.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen french fries?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Cut them into fry-sized pieces and either bake or fry them until golden brown before adding them to the soup.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers would be great additions. Add them along with the onion and garlic.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic as directed. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, except for the french fries and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the french fries and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapenos to the soup.