Alright, come on in, grab a seat! Smells good in here, doesn’t it? That’s because I’m whipping up a batch of my family’s all-time favorite: loaded hamburger soup. I swear, the first time I made this, it was pure desperation. Hubby was working late, the kids were hangry, and the fridge was…well, let’s just say inspiration was thin on the ground. But, necessity is the mother of invention, right? I threw some ground beef, veggies, and broth into a pot, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. The result? Pure magic. This loaded hamburger soup has become a staple in our house, a comforting hug in a bowl on busy weeknights.
Now, don’t get me wrong, there were definitely some learning curves. One time, I added way too much cream cheese and it ended up more like a dip than a soup – hilarious, but definitely not dinner! But over the years, I’ve perfected it, tweaked it, and made it my own. And the best part? Even my pickiest eater devours it. It’s become a go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just a cozy night in front of the fire. My goal is always to create recipes that are both delicious and doable, because let’s face it, who has time for complicated meals? This loaded hamburger soup recipe definitely fits the bill. So, ditch the takeout menu, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! I promise, you’ll love how easy and satisfying this recipe is.
What You’ll Need for This loaded hamburger soup
Okay, friend, gather ’round. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece of loaded hamburger soup. I always say, good ingredients make for a good meal, so let’s start there.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: I always use 80/20 ground beef for my loaded hamburger soup. It gives the soup a richer flavor, but you can use leaner beef if you prefer.
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped: Adds a lovely savory base to the soup.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 4 cups Beef Broth: You can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained: Adds some acidity and sweetness.
- 1 (15 ounce) can Creamed Corn: This is my secret ingredient for loaded hamburger soup! It adds a creamy texture without being overly heavy.
- 1 cup Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
- 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: For that classic Italian flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: This is what makes it a creamy hamburger soup.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s loaded hamburger soup without cheese?
- Optional Toppings: Sour cream, bacon bits, chopped green onions
Shopping Tip: When making loaded hamburger soup, you can find the best deal on ground beef by checking your local grocery store’s weekly ad. I often stock up when it’s on sale!
Kitchen Wisdom: Here’s a loaded hamburger soup trick I learned from my grandma: sauté the onions and garlic in a little bit of olive oil before adding the ground beef. It really brings out their flavor.
Ingredient Prep Shortcut: To save time, I often buy pre-chopped onions and garlic when I’m making loaded hamburger soup on a busy weeknight.
Cost-Saving Tip: You can use frozen vegetables in this recipe instead of fresh. They’re just as nutritious and often more affordable.
Storage Tip: Store any leftover loaded hamburger soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
And if you want to check out another soup recipe, try my Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup that is easy and delicious!
Let’s Make This loaded hamburger soup Together
Alright, let’s get cooking! This loaded hamburger soup is so easy, you’ll be amazed. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness in no time. If you love this you should try out this delicious and comforting broccoli cheddar soup!
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. I learned the hard way with loaded hamburger soup that leaving the grease in makes the soup taste greasy, so don’t skip this step!
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Your loaded hamburger soup should smell amazing at this point! This is where I often add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Add the Liquids and Spices: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. While the loaded hamburger soup is simmering, I usually chop the green onions for topping or prep a side salad.
- Stir in the Vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables and creamed corn to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Don’t worry if your loaded hamburger soup seems a little thin at this point; the cream cheese will thicken it up.
- Melt in the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is creamy. This is what transforms it into a creamy hamburger soup. In my kitchen, loaded hamburger soup usually takes about 5-7 minutes for the cream cheese to fully melt. Make sure you stir constantly to avoid any clumps!
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted. Easy peasy!
- Serve and Enjoy! Ladle the loaded hamburger soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green onions.
Personal loaded hamburger soup Cooking Tip: For a thicker soup, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
Timing from my loaded hamburger soup Experience: From start to finish, this recipe usually takes me about 30-40 minutes to make.
Reassuring Note: If your loaded hamburger soup seems too thick, simply add a little more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Family-Tested Shortcut: I often use pre-cooked bacon bits to save time when I’m making this loaded hamburger soup for a quick weeknight dinner.
Sensory Cues: Your loaded hamburger soup should smell like a delicious combination of beef, garlic, and cheese.
And if you’re looking for an easy hamburger soup recipe, but with less cream, give this Tortellini Vegetable Soup a try!
How I Love to Serve This loaded hamburger soup
Okay, so you’ve got a pot of delicious loaded hamburger soup simmering on the stove. Now what? Well, let me tell you how my family loves to enjoy this comforting meal.
My family loves this loaded hamburger soup when I serve it with some crusty bread for dipping. There’s something so satisfying about soaking up all that cheesy, beefy goodness. This easy hamburger soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a casual get-together with friends. It’s also a hit at potlucks and game day parties. This loaded hamburger soup is the perfect meal for any occasion.
Go-To Side Dishes: I often serve this loaded hamburger soup with a simple side salad. The crisp lettuce and refreshing vinaigrette provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy soup. I have also been known to serve grilled cheese sandwiches with this, yum!
Occasions: This loaded hamburger soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time. It’s also great for feeding a crowd, like during a football game or a birthday party. My friends always ask for this loaded hamburger soup recipe whenever I make it for a potluck. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Presentation Tips: I like to garnish my loaded hamburger soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of bacon bits, and a few chopped green onions. It just makes it look extra inviting.
Leftover Ideas: If you have extra loaded hamburger soup, you can use it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for quesadillas.
Seasonal Variations: In the fall, I sometimes add a can of pumpkin puree to my loaded hamburger soup for a cozy, seasonal twist.
Your loaded hamburger soup Questions Answered
Alright, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about this loaded hamburger soup recipe. I’ve been making this for years, so I’ve definitely learned a few things along the way!
Q: Can I make this loaded hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the ground beef as instructed, then transfer it to your slow cooker along with all the other ingredients (except for the cream cheese and cheddar cheese). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I freeze this loaded hamburger soup?
A: Yes, you can! However, the texture of the cream cheese may change slightly after freezing. To minimize this, I recommend freezing the soup before adding the cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Then, when you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup completely and stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese as instructed.
Q: What if I don’t have creamed corn? Can I substitute something else in my loaded hamburger soup?
A: If you don’t have creamed corn, you can use regular corn kernels and a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup. You know what I do when my loaded hamburger soup needs a little extra something? I add a pinch of sugar!
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this creamy hamburger soup?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
Q: My loaded hamburger soup is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: Simply add a little more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. This is one of the most common feedback about my recipe.
Q: Can I make this loaded hamburger soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground beef alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper in the vegetarian loaded hamburger soup for a spicy touch.
Q: Is there a way to make this a one-pot hamburger soup?
A: Absolutely! The One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe is an excellent alternative for an easy clean up!
Q: My kids are picky eaters. Any tips for getting them to eat this loaded hamburger soup?
A: I feel your pain! One thing that works well for my kids is to let them choose their own toppings. They love adding things like goldfish crackers, croutons, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese. Make it fun!
My Final Thoughts on This loaded hamburger soup
Well, there you have it! My go-to recipe for loaded hamburger soup. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and comforting. Plus, it’s a surefire way to get my family to eat their vegetables!
My loaded hamburger soup Pro Tips:
- Don’t skip browning the ground beef. It adds so much flavor to the soup.
- Use softened cream cheese. It will melt much more easily into the soup.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so make sure the soup is seasoned to your liking.
And speaking of variations, here are a few loaded hamburger soup twists I’ve tried with my family:
- Spicy loaded hamburger soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a little kick.
- Taco loaded hamburger soup: Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips and salsa.
- Bacon loaded hamburger soup: Add crumbled bacon to the soup and use bacon bits as a topping. This is one of the many ways to customize the loaded hamburger soup!
My son loves the taco version, while my daughter prefers the classic recipe with extra cheese. This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe also adds potatoes to the soup, if you want to try it!
Ultimately, the best part about this loaded hamburger soup recipe is that it’s so versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to check out some groups like this Facebook group about Instant pot cheeseburger soup recipe using leftovers to get more ideas!
I truly hope you and your family enjoy this loaded hamburger soup as much as we do. It’s a simple, hearty, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead and give it a try! I know you’ll love it!
loaded hamburger soup
This Loaded Hamburger Soup is a hearty and comforting meal packed with ground beef, vegetables, and cheesy goodness. It’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, satisfying soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, bacon bits
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans, corn, and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and garnish with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped green onions, and bacon bits.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the soup while it’s simmering. You can also substitute ground turkey for the ground beef.