Low Carb Cheesy Hamburger Soup

How to Make Low Carb Cheesy Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease if necessary, then remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the zucchini, celery, and cauliflower to the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Return the ground beef to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Once the vegetables are tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese (if using). Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the cream cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.

Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper, if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This soup is best enjoyed warm, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of low-carb crackers or a simple green salad.

Tips for Perfect Low Carb Cheesy Hamburger Soup

• Vegetable Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of cauliflower or zucchini, feel free to swap in other low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, try adding some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
• Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese gives this soup a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or even Parmesan for a different twist.
• Add More Protein: If you want to boost the protein content, you can add chicken breast, turkey sausage, or even bacon for added flavor and texture.
• Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a large batch and enjoy it later. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to serve.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Low-Carb Diets

• Low in Carbs: By replacing traditional starchy ingredients like potatoes with cauliflower and zucchini, this soup stays low in carbs while still being hearty and filling.
• High in Healthy Fats: The heavy cream, cheese, and cream cheese provide healthy fats that are perfect for a keto diet, keeping you full and satisfied longer.
• Packed with Protein: The ground beef provides a solid amount of protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you energized throughout the day.
• Nutrient-Rich: The vegetables, especially cauliflower and zucchini, are full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, adding a nutritional boost to the meal.

Final Thoughts

Low Carb Cheesy Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comforting meal that won’t sabotage your low-carb or keto lifestyle. With its rich, cheesy broth, tender ground beef, and flavorful veggies, this soup is perfect for chilly nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s so simple to make, you’ll find yourself cooking it on repeat.

Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food, this soup delivers on all fronts. Warm up with a bowl of Low Carb Cheesy Hamburger Soup, and enjoy a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that keeps you on track with your health goals.