Description
This comforting, elevated soup captures the essence of a juicy tavern-style cheeseburger in a velvety, spoonable form. By incorporating a malty, non-alcoholic lager, the broth gains a sophisticated depth that perfectly complements savory ground beef and sharp cheddar cheese. It is a soul-warming, one-pot wonder that balances rich dairy with nuanced, earthy undertones, making it the perfect meal for a cozy weeknight or a relaxed gathering. Simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful, this dish proves that hearty comfort food can be both intentional and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 cup non-alcoholic malty lager
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the non-alcoholic beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-bagged to ensure a smoother, creamier melt. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of extra beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped pickles, crispy onions, or fresh chives to complete the cheeseburger experience.