Beef and Bacon Cheeseburger Soup with Garlic Croutons Recipe

The lure of a creamy, savory soup that melds the iconic flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup is simply irresistible. Crafted with love and attention to detail, this Beef and Bacon Cheeseburger Soup with Garlic Croutons promises to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The blend of robust beef, smoky turkey bacon, and gooey melted cheese, topped with homemade garlic croutons, will inspire both your creativity and your taste buds. As the cold months approach, this hearty dish becomes more than just a meal—it transforms into an experience of warmth and togetherness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups cubed bread (for croutons)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for croutons)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside with the beef.
3. Add the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the beef broth, mixing well to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the milk, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cooked beef and bacon back into the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the cubed bread with melted butter and minced garlic, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Reduce the soup’s heat to low, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Ladle the soup into bowls, top each with crispy garlic croutons, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Helpful Tips

• For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative.
• To save time, use store-bought croutons, though homemade ones add a delightful crunch.
• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to reach the desired consistency.

Pairings

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For drinks, consider a cold, crisp beer or a glass of light red wine like Pinot Noir to complement the rich, savory flavors.

We can’t wait to see your creations and hear your thoughts! Snap a picture of your Beef and Bacon Cheeseburger Soup with Garlic Croutons and share it with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Your feedback is always appreciated, so please leave your comments on our website, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Follow Zynahz on social media for more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration.