Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

Keto-friendly and delicious, Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup is an irresistible comfort dish that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, hearty bowl. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make. With turkey bacon and lean ground beef, it delivers rich flavor without compromising healthy eating goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in just 40 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a deliciously rich taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress guests!
• Low Carb Delight: With minimal carbs, this soup fits perfectly into keto diets while still being filling.
• Kid-Friendly Option: The cheesy goodness appeals to both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided skillet: This allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without spilling over.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meats.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning for the best flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

Meat and Dairy

• 4 slices of thick-cut Turkey Bacon, cut into half-inch pieces
• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• ⅓ cup of heavy cream
• 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon of onion powder
• ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons of Italian herb seasoning
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ a head of cauliflower, cut into medium pieces

Broth

• 3 cups of organic beef bone broth

How to Make Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Heat a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the Turkey Bacon and fry for 6 to 7 minutes until crispy. Transfer the crispy Turkey Bacon pieces to a side plate lined with a paper towel. Cover with another paper towel to blot off excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

Drain most of the Turkey Bacon grease from the skillet (save it in a container for later use). Return the skillet to heat and add the ground beef. Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning onto the beef. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine. Fry the beef for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Add chopped cauliflower and beef broth to the skillet. Stir until combined. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low, simmering for 6 to 8 minutes until cauliflower is tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Combine Cream and Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat. Take a few spoonfuls of hot soup mixture and stir it into the heavy cream (to prevent curdling). Pour this cream mixture back into the soup. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted through. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into six serving bowls, topping each with crumbled cooked Turkey Bacon and fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

Serving Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup is simple and fun! This hearty, creamy soup can be customized with your favorite toppings and sides to suit any occasion.

Toppings

• Crispy Turkey Bacon: Sprinkle additional crispy Turkey Bacon on top for extra flavor and crunch.
• Shredded Cheese: Add an extra layer of sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy finish that melts beautifully.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the soup and adds a pop of color.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. It soaks up the delicious broth perfectly.
• Salad: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad works well.
• Pickles or Jalapeños: Add some pickled vegetables or jalapeños for a tangy kick that complements the flavors.

How to Perfect Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ground beef and cheese for the best taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure the cauliflower is tender but not mushy by keeping an eye on cooking times.
• Cream Tempering: Always temper your heavy cream before adding it to prevent curdling; this ensures a smooth texture.
• Store Leftovers Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently when serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread add crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup with its crisp greens and tangy dressing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy, colorful addition to your meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory soup flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make a filling side that balances the soup’s richness.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm cheesy breadsticks are great for dunking into the soup, making each bite satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Using insufficient seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste your soup as you cook and adjust the herbs and spices accordingly.

• Overcooking the cauliflower: Cauliflower can become mushy if overcooked. Aim for tender cauliflower that still retains some bite by keeping an eye on cooking time.

• Not incorporating the cream properly: If you add heavy cream directly to hot soup, it may curdle. Always temper it by mixing in a bit of hot soup before adding it back.

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of this soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality organic beef bone broth for the best taste.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or crispy Turkey Bacon toppings removes a layer of flavor and presentation. Always finish with these garnishes for an appealing dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container – Keeps the soup fresh longer.
• Can be stored for up to 3 days – Enjoy leftovers without worry!

Freezing Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers – Prevents freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months – Perfect for meal prep!

Reheating Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring regularly, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup.

What can I substitute for Turkey Bacon?

You can use chicken bacon or simply omit it altogether if you prefer a lighter version of this soup.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

Yes! This Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup is low in carbs and perfect for keto diets, making it a satisfying option without compromising dietary goals.

Can I add vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon & Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences. Give this comforting recipe a try today!