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This Keto Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon is pure chilly night comfort. Creamy and boldly flavored just like a real cheeseburger but without the carbs it always gets rave reviews at my house for being rich and hearty but still easy enough for a busy weeknight
I still remember making this for the first time when my kids were begging for cheeseburgers but I wanted something cozy for dinner. Their smiles after that first bite made it an instant favorite
Ingredients
- Thick cut bacon: adds a smoky savory crunch on top choose a good quality bacon for best flavor
- Eighty percent lean ground beef: provides classic cheeseburger taste and keeps soup rich and filling select fresh beef for best results
- Onion powder and garlic powder: bring that familiar cheeseburger flavor easily without chopping
- Italian seasoning: offers a subtle herby background
- Paprika: gives a gentle warmth and depth
- Salt and pepper: let you fine tune the seasonings to your liking fresh cracked pepper really pops
- Chopped cauliflower florets: mimic potatoes and add body while keeping carbs low look for firm white heads
- Beef broth: deepens the meaty base choose a low sodium broth for more control over seasoning
- Heavy whipping cream: makes the soup luxuriously creamy and balances the spices use the freshest cream you can find
- Sharp cheddar cheese: creates that classic cheeseburger melt opt for hand shredded from a block for best texture
- Fresh parsley: brightens each bowl and adds a hint of freshness use flat leaf parsley for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Chop thick cut bacon and cook it in a large skillet over medium heat for about six to seven minutes until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and blot to remove extra grease. Pour off and discard the bacon grease from the skillet
- Brown the Beef and Spices:
- Add ground beef to the same skillet. Sprinkle over onion powder garlic powder Italian seasoning paprika salt and pepper. Cook while breaking apart the meat for about five minutes until browned and cooked through
- Simmer with Cauliflower and Broth:
- Stir in chopped cauliflower florets and beef broth. Mix well then cover and reduce the heat to medium low. Let everything simmer for about seven to eight minutes until the cauliflower is fork tender but still holds its shape
- Temper the Cream:
- Take the skillet off the heat. To prevent curdling stir one or two tablespoons of hot soup into the heavy cream then gradually pour the tempered cream into the soup and stir
- Finish with Cheese:
- Add finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup and stir until completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt pepper or seasoning if you like
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the creamy soup into bowls. Top with plenty of crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for the perfect finish
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My favorite part is the way the cheddar cheese melts and stretches with every bite and I love that my family always lingers a little longer at the table when this soup is on
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating do so gently over low heat to keep the cream and cheese smooth. If freezing be sure to cool the soup completely first then store in a freezer safe container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
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Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter twist. If you do not have cauliflower try chopped broccoli florets. Monterey jack or Colby cheese works as a swap for cheddar. You could also use turkey bacon if you prefer
Serving Suggestions
For extra crunch serve this soup with a side of crisp dill pickles. A simple green salad makes a great fresh contrast. My kids love this with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top too
Cultural Context
Cheeseburger soup is a clever American mashup born from the Midwest tradition of turning anything into a comforting soup. Keto cooks have adopted it by swapping potatoes for cauliflower. Now it is a popular low carb favorite for anyone who loves diner and comfort food classics
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well in this soup. Just be sure to add extra seasoning for richer flavor.
- → How do I make the soup creamier?
To achieve an even creamier texture, increase the amount of heavy cream or add a bit more cheddar cheese.
- → Is there a substitute for cauliflower?
Broccoli florets can be used in place of cauliflower for a different taste and texture.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the soup up to the point of adding cheese and cream, then finish just before serving to preserve freshness.
- → How do I thicken the soup without flour?
Allow it to simmer uncovered a bit longer or mash a portion of the cooked cauliflower for a thicker consistency.