Are you seeking warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in a bowl? Look no further than the creamy, hearty delight of a Cream Cheese Beef Soup. This dish not only serves as the ultimate comfort food but also brings together the savory goodness of beef with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all in one pot. Let's dive into making this soul-warming soup.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Cooked pasta or rice (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparation
Start by prepping your ingredients:
- Chop the onions and mince the garlic.
- Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for a while.
- If using pasta or rice, prepare it separately according to package instructions.
Cooking the Base
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned.
- Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the spices bloom in the heat for about a minute.
📝 Note: Blooming the spices enhances their flavor, making your soup more aromatic.
Adding Liquids
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Incorporating Cream Cheese
- Turn the heat to low. Cube the cream cheese and slowly start to incorporate it into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Once the cream cheese has melted into the soup, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
Final Touches
- Add the frozen vegetables, stirring until they are heated through. This adds color and nutrition to your soup.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. If the soup is too thick, adjust with more broth or water.
🔄 Note: If you're using pasta or rice, add it at this point or serve it separately to avoid it becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of this Cream Cheese Beef Soup is its versatility:
- Over pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.
- With a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Accompanied by a fresh salad for a balance of flavors.
- Top with grated cheese or a sprinkle of chives for garnish.
The key to this soup is its creamy texture combined with the hearty beef, making it a perfect dish for cold days or when you're craving something comforting.
In the end, this Cream Cheese Beef Soup brings comfort to the table in more ways than one. From the hearty, savory beef to the smooth, luxurious creaminess, each spoonful is a hug for the soul. It's adaptable, allowing for variations in thickness or ingredients, and its rich flavor profile ensures it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to satisfy and warm you from the inside out.
Can I use other meat besides ground beef?
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Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too runny?
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If your soup seems too thin, you can thicken it by either reducing it on the stove or by adding a slurry made from cornstarch or flour mixed with cold water. Gradually stir this into the simmering soup until you reach the desired consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
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Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the beef and using vegetable broth. Enhance the soup with more vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or lentils for protein.
