Description
This Healthy Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic cheeseburger, combining lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese base. It’s perfect for a cozy meal that satisfies cravings while being mindful of health, featuring low-sodium broth and lean meat.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 rib celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 pound potatoes, cut into ½” cubes (about 3 medium)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Liquids and Thickener
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables: In a large stovetop pot or Dutch oven, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic, then sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in the salt, dried parsley, ground mustard, and pepper. Pour in the 3 cups of low-sodium chicken or beef broth, then add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes and vegetables are tender.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch together with the half-and-half until smooth, making a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering soup to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens.
- Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use milk instead of half-and-half.
- You can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the cheeseburger flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
