Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheeseburger Soup
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheeseburger Soup is here to warm both your heart and your taste buds. Imagine the rich, savory flavors of a cheeseburger combined with the smoothness of cream, the crunch of crispy bacon, and the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms—all enveloped in a thick, hearty broth. This soup is a perfect meal that brings a touch of indulgence and coziness to your kitchen.
Ingredients Overview
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup truly extraordinary:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): The base of this soup. It’s the hearty protein that gives the soup its rich, savory flavor. Choose high-quality ground beef for the best texture and taste.
- Bacon (6 strips, chopped): Bacon is the soul of any comforting dish, and here, it adds crispy, smoky goodness that complements the beef perfectly. It also provides a little indulgent crunch in every bite.
- Onion (1, diced): Onions bring a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked, which balances the richness of the beef and bacon.
- Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Mushrooms give this soup an earthy, umami quality that deepens the overall flavor. Button mushrooms or cremini work beautifully here.
- Beef Broth (4 cups): The broth is the foundation of this soup. It brings all the flavors together and creates a silky, savory base.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the soup, making it creamy and satisfying.
- Shredded Swiss Cheese (1 cup): Swiss cheese has a mild, nutty flavor that melts beautifully into the soup, creating a smooth, cheesy finish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Green Onions (for garnish): A fresh, crisp garnish to add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor to each bowl.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the bacon to become crisp and golden. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. The rendered bacon fat will add even more flavor to your soup, so don’t discard it just yet!
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In the same pot, add the ground beef to the remaining bacon fat. Cook it over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step will give the beef a nice sear and intensify its flavor. Once browned, add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent, and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
3. Add Beef Broth
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine with the beef and vegetable mixture. Bring the soup to a simmer, letting it cook for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a savory, fragrant base.
4. Stir in the Cream and Swiss Cheese
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through before adding the shredded Swiss cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted completely into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.
5. Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference. Taste the soup and feel free to add more salt if needed, as the broth and cheese can vary in saltiness.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. Serve hot, and enjoy a bowl of comfort like never before!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the creamy texture.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your beef broth doesn’t contain any gluten-based thickeners.
4. How can I make this soup spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the beef broth. This will give it a nice kick.
5. Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef and will still work wonderfully in this soup.
6. How long does the soup last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to enjoy.
8. Can I make this soup without bacon?
While bacon adds a lot of flavor, you can omit it for a slightly lighter version. You could also try using turkey bacon for a healthier twist.
9. How do I get the soup creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, you can add more heavy cream or even blend a portion of the soup in a blender to create a smooth, velvety texture.
10. Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Carrots, celery, or spinach would all make great additions, giving the soup even more flavor and nutrients.
11. Can I make this soup without using cream?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk if you want a lighter version. However, using cream will give it the rich, decadent texture that makes this soup so comforting.
12. Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, this soup is usually a hit with kids, especially with the familiar flavors of cheeseburgers and bacon. If your child doesn’t like mushrooms, you can skip them or use a more mild vegetable like carrots or zucchini.
13. Can I use frozen beef instead of fresh?
Frozen ground beef works fine, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure it browns properly. You may need to drain off some excess moisture that comes from thawing frozen beef.
14. How can I make this soup a complete meal?
Serve this soup alongside a fresh, green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. The soup itself is filling enough with the beef and cream, but adding a side of greens helps balance out the richness.
15. Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can adjust the heat to your liking by adding red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
16. Can I make this recipe without beef?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian alternative. The flavors will change slightly but will still be delicious.
17. Can I add pasta to this soup?
Yes! You can add small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells. Just cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup at the end. Be sure to reduce the liquid slightly if you add pasta, as it will absorb some of the broth.
18. How do I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the vegetables (like the mushrooms and onions) or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry to thicken it up. Another method is to blend part of the soup to create a creamier texture.
19. Can I use a different kind of mushroom?
Absolutely! You can substitute with other mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for a different flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
20. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is perfect for making ahead. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently.
Helpful Tips
1. Brown your beef properly: For maximum flavor, ensure the ground beef gets nicely browned in step 2. This adds a deep savory flavor to your soup.
2. Don’t skip the bacon fat: The bacon fat infuses the soup with a rich, smoky flavor that really enhances the overall taste.
3. Stir in the cheese slowly: Stir the Swiss cheese into the soup gently to ensure it melts evenly without clumping.
4. Use fresh green onions: Fresh green onions bring a crisp, refreshing bite to each spoonful, making them the perfect garnish.
5. Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste your soup before adding salt and pepper, as the broth and cheese will provide some saltiness already.
6. Add a splash of white wine: For a more refined flavor profile, add a splash of dry white wine to the soup when you add the broth. This will give the soup an extra layer of richness and complexity.
7. Make it smoky with smoked paprika: If you love that smoky bacon flavor, sprinkle in a little smoked paprika when sautéing the onions and mushrooms. It enhances the soup’s depth.
8. Blend for a smoother texture: For a silky smooth soup, blend a portion of it in a blender (or use an immersion blender). This makes the texture even creamier and helps thicken the broth without adding extra flour or starch.
9. Spice it up with jalapeños: If you enjoy a little heat, finely chop a fresh jalapeño and cook it along with the onions and mushrooms for a spicy kick that balances the richness of the soup.
10. Add a dash of Dijon mustard: A small amount of Dijon mustard stirred into the soup after adding the cream can add a tangy contrast that elevates the flavor.
11. Use leftover roast beef: For a twist on the recipe, you can use leftover roast beef instead of ground beef. It’ll add even more flavor and tenderness to the soup.
12. Use a high-fat cream: For an ultra-rich soup, use double or whipping cream instead of regular heavy cream. This will give the soup an even more velvety, luxurious texture.
13. Let the soup rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 15-20 minutes after it’s done cooking will let the flavors meld together even more and enhance the overall taste.
14. Add fresh herbs: Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of color and flavor that contrasts the richness of the soup.
15. Serve with a side of toasted bread: A crunchy, toasted baguette or sourdough is the perfect accompaniment to this soup. The texture of the bread enhances the experience with every bite.
16. Try different broths: While beef broth is traditional, you can experiment with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter version of the soup.
17. Use a slow cooker: If you’re short on time, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef, onions, and bacon first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
18. Keep it low-carb: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, simply omit the potatoes or serve the soup over cauliflower rice instead of bread.
19. Make it extra cheesy: For a super cheesy soup, add extra Swiss cheese or even sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving for a bit of added richness.
20. For a thicker soup, add cornstarch slurry: If you find the soup to be too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup and simmer until it thickens to your liking.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- When freezing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Label the container with the date it was made for easy reference.
- Reheat in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Avoid reheating the soup multiple times to preserve its texture and flavor.
- You can freeze this soup in individual portions for quick, easy meals.
- Let the soup thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
- If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a little extra broth when reheating.
- Freeze the bacon separately if you plan to reheat the soup for a crispier bacon topping.
- Store the garnishes (bacon and green onions) separately and add them fresh when serving.
Recipe Secrets
1. Caramelize the onions: For extra sweetness and depth, cook the onions a little longer to caramelize them before adding the mushrooms. This adds a wonderful layer of flavor to the soup.
2. Use a good quality beef broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup, so using a high-quality or homemade beef broth will elevate the entire dish.
3. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce: For an extra punch of umami flavor, a dash of Worcestershire sauce goes a long way in enhancing the savory notes of the soup.
4. Don’t rush the cheese melting: Take your time to melt the cheese slowly into the soup to achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
5. Garnish generously: Don’t be shy with the crispy bacon and green onions. They add texture, flavor, and color to the soup, making it irresistible!
1. Searing the Beef: One of the best secrets to achieving a rich, deep flavor in this soup is properly searing the ground beef before adding any other ingredients. This caramelization adds complexity and depth to the soup’s base. Don’t rush this step—let the beef brown well on all sides before you move on to the next step.
2. Use Fresh Swiss Cheese: For the creamiest, smoothest texture, use fresh Swiss cheese that you shred yourself rather than pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the meltability and smoothness of the cheese in the soup.
3. Don’t Overcook the Bacon: Bacon is a key ingredient that gives the soup its signature flavor. While it’s important for the bacon to be crispy, don’t overcook it to the point where it becomes too brittle. Leave it slightly chewy so that it retains its texture and doesn’t get lost in the soup.
4. Deglaze with Broth: After browning the ground beef and bacon, deglaze the pan with the beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—those crispy bits are packed with flavor and will make your soup even more delicious.
5. Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re concerned about salt, choose a low-sodium beef broth. This allows you to control the seasoning better and ensures that the richness of the soup comes from the bacon, cheese, and cream rather than being too salty.
6. Simmer the Soup Slowly: When you add the broth and let the soup simmer, resist the urge to turn the heat up high. Simmering it gently allows the flavors to meld together more effectively and prevents the soup from becoming too watery or losing its richness.
7. Make Your Own Beef Broth: If you want to take your soup to the next level, try making your own beef broth. It adds an incredible depth of flavor and is a great way to control the ingredients. Just roast beef bones, vegetables, and seasonings, then simmer for several hours. The result is worth the time and effort.
8. Add a Touch of Worcestershire Sauce: For an extra layer of umami flavor, stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce when you add the broth. It adds a savory, slightly tangy note that complements the richness of the bacon and cheese perfectly.
9. Add a Dash of Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg can enhance the creaminess of the soup. It pairs beautifully with dairy-based soups, adding warmth and complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
10. Allow the Soup to Rest: After cooking, let the soup sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and gives the soup time to thicken slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and hearty dish.
11. Add Fresh Lemon Juice Before Serving: A tiny splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving will brighten the entire dish and balance out the richness of the cheese and bacon. It’s a subtle but highly effective way to elevate the flavor profile.
12. Serve with Crispy Fried Onions: For an added layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top of the soup just before serving. The crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup and adds a savory bite that’s irresistible.
13. Add a Bay Leaf: A bay leaf added to the pot while simmering can subtly enhance the soup’s flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving—it’s not meant to be eaten, but it imparts a lovely herbal note.
14. Finish with Freshly Ground Black Pepper: While you’ll season the soup with salt and pepper during cooking, always finish the dish with freshly ground black pepper just before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and a bit of spice that makes every spoonful more satisfying.
15. Use a Cast-Iron Pot: Cooking this soup in a cast-iron pot helps evenly distribute heat, ensuring that the ingredients cook gently without burning. Cast iron also enhances the flavors by retaining heat and slowly building depth throughout the cooking process.
16. Stir the Cheese in Gradually: When adding the Swiss cheese, do so gradually and stir constantly. This prevents clumping and ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the soup, creating that perfect creamy texture.
17. Make it a Casserole: For a fun twist, transform this soup into a casserole. Pour the soup into a baking dish, top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
18. Add a Touch of Garlic: A minced garlic clove added to the onions and mushrooms while sautéing will infuse the soup with aromatic depth. Garlic complements both the beef and the creamy base, taking the flavor to the next level.
19. Let the Soup Cool and Store for Later: This soup tastes even better the next day! Allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop and become more intense, making leftovers something to look forward to.
20. Adjust the Thickness: If you find the soup too thin after adding the cream, you can thicken it slightly by mixing a small amount of cornstarch with water and stirring it into the soup. This will give the soup the ideal creamy consistency without changing the flavor
This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and happiness to the table. With these tips and secrets, you’re ready to create the perfect bowl every time. Enjoy this indulgent soup with your loved ones, and savor the moments together!
