Healthy Cheeseburger Soup

Is it too cold outside to fire up the grill? Turn that mouthwatering burger into a cozy bowl of cheeseburger soup instead. 

It’s the ultimate fusion of comfort food for chilly weather. 

This one-pot wonder combines all the elements of a classic cheeseburger. This version is packed with protein and delicious healthy ingredients!

(Serves 8)

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (lean for a healthier option)

• 2 medium carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes

• 6 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

• 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)

• 2 tablespoons corn starch, mixed with 3 tablespoons water to form a slurry

• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, shredded cheddar, or toasted whole-grain croutons

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings:

   • Stir in the potatoes, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors combine.

4. Simmer the Soup:

   • Add the chicken or beef broth and return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Thicken the Soup:

   • In a small bowl, mix the corn starch and water to create a slurry. Slowly stir it into the simmering soup, mixing well to thicken slightly. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes.

6. Blend Cottage Cheese:

   • While the soup cooks, blend the cottage cheese until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.

7. Make it Creamy:

   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the blended cottage cheese. Mix well to achieve a creamy consistency. Avoid boiling after adding the cottage cheese to prevent curdling.

8. Taste and Adjust:

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed.

9. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or croutons.

Optional Add-Ins:

• For added texture, sprinkle crispy turkey bacon bits on top.

• For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

This hearty and creamy cheeseburger soup is balanced with vegetables and made healthier by using cottage cheese for creaminess and lean ground beef. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!