Introduction
Keto cheeseburger soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, comforting bowl—without the bun or the carbs. Loaded with ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this soup is a perfect low-carb meal for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and a family favorite for chilly days.
The History of
The concept of cheeseburger soup evolved from traditional cheeseburgers as cooks sought creative ways to enjoy the beloved burger flavor in new formats. Originally popularized in American diners, cheeseburger soup combines ground beef, cheese, and burger toppings into a spoonable dish that satisfies the same cravings. As keto and low-carb lifestyles grew in popularity, this dish was adapted by replacing high-carb ingredients like potatoes and flour-based thickeners with keto-friendly alternatives like cauliflower, cream, and cheese, making it both indulgent and suitable for carb-conscious diets.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Ground Beef: Provides the hearty base and authentic cheeseburger flavor.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
- Celery: Offers a mild crunch and balance to the richness.
- Cauliflower: A low-carb substitute for potatoes, adding texture and bulk.
- Cheddar Cheese: The primary cheese, contributing to the rich, cheesy flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: Enhances the creaminess and adds fat content essential for keto diets.
- Beef Broth: Forms the savory, flavorful base of the soup.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- Garlic: Infuses aromatic flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce: Provide tangy and umami notes reminiscent of a cheeseburger.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add butter to the pot, then sauté the onions, celery, and minced garlic until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Cauliflower: Stir in the beef broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Incorporate the Dairy and Flavorings: Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it melts and fully combines. Add the heavy cream, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Return the Beef and Add Cheese: Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, bacon bits, or chopped pickles if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Cheeseburger Soup
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese to avoid additives that can affect the soup’s texture.
- Cook the cauliflower until just tender to maintain a pleasant texture without becoming mushy.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to get the perfect balance of flavors.
- For a thicker soup, add a touch of xanthan gum or blend a portion of the cauliflower before adding it back in.
Variations and Customizations
- Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add crispy bacon pieces for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Dill Pickle Garnish: Top the soup with chopped dill pickles for a tangy, authentic cheeseburger touch.
- Vegetable Additions: Include mushrooms or spinach for added nutrients.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Keto cheeseburger soup is a high-fat, low-carb dish perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. It provides a good balance of protein and fats while keeping carbohydrates minimal by using cauliflower instead of potatoes. The beef offers protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, while cheese and cream contribute calcium and fat content. However, those monitoring their saturated fat intake should enjoy this soup in moderation or adapt it using leaner beef and lighter dairy alternatives.
FAQ
- Can I freeze keto cheeseburger soup? Yes, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, try using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for different flavor profiles.
- How do I thicken the soup without adding carbs? Use xanthan gum or blend a portion of the soup’s cauliflower base.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Keto Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a Dutch oven, skillet, or soup pot. If your ground beef is too lean, add a tablespoon or two of avocado oil for additional fat.
- Add the diced onions, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and parsley, cooking for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Remove any excess fat from the pot, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 15 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add the cream cheese, breaking it into smaller pieces to help it melt into the hot broth. Stir thoroughly. If the cream cheese does not melt completely, briefly turn the heat back on.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Add the heavy cream and heat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it just starts to simmer. Turn off the heat.
- Finally, whisk in the sour cream. Serve the soup topped with your favorite cheeseburger-inspired garnishes, and enjoy this delicious low-carb meal!