Cheeseburger Chowder Recipe

ByJames Level

Turning classic comfort foods into something new and exciting is something I really love to do, and my Cheeseburger Chowder does that! I combine the hearty flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of diced carrots and corn and the creaminess of shredded cheddar cheese, and what I have is a delightful twist on the traditional burger.

Two cups of chicken broth and milk create a rich and satisfying base, while potatoes bulk it up. I infuse it with aromatic garlic and onion, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce and dried basil packs in extra flavor.

For added indulgence, top it with crispy bacon or more cheese!

Ingredients photo for Cheeseburger Chowder Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Cheeseburger Chowder Recipe

Ground beef: a rich source of protein that provides a hearty flavor.

Health-Fostering Fats: Olive Oil is an optimal oil for frying; its smoke point is high, and it is packed with healthful polyphenols.

Onion: Contributes to sweetness; helps with digestion.

Carrots: Full of vitamins and provide a hint of sweetness.

Celery: Low in calories, it gives an appealing crunch.

Sweetens the dish and is high in antioxidants: Bell Pepper.

Garlic: Strengthens the immune system; adds smell and flavor.

Chicken broth: Supplies a savory depth and is rich in minerals.

Cheddar cheese is creamy and a good source of calcium.

Chopped potatoes: Supply starch, thicken chowder.

Corn: It is sweet and a source of fiber, desirable nutrients, particularly when you eat them in the form of frozen corn.

Worcestershire Sauce: Contributes umami, boosts flavor depth.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 cup chopped onion

  • 1 cup diced carrots

  • 1 cup diced celery

  • 1 cup chopped bell pepper

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups milk

  • 2 cups diced potatoes

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup frozen corn

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • Optional toppings: Crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, extra cheese

Instructions

1. In a big pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, place olive oil and ground beef. Cook the beef until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon, then pour out any excess fat.

2. Into the pot, add onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.

3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until you can smell its wonderful aroma permeate the kitchen.

4. Add the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to envelop the meat and vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes to ensure the flour is fully cooked and you don’t end up with a sauce that tastes of raw flour.

5. Whisk the chicken broth and milk into the mixture gradually, so that no lumps form. Bring the mixture slowly up to a simmer.

6. Into the pot, add the potatoes, which have been cut into small cubes. Let them bubble away for about a quarter of an hour—not a minute longer—until they are soft enough to mash.

7. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the chowder until melted and combined.

8. Incorporate the frozen corn, along with the Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, and seasonings of your choice, to include salt and pepper to taste. Let the ensemble hold hands over low to moderate heat for another 5 minutes.

9. Take the pot off the heat and mix in the sour cream until it is entirely amalgamated.

10. Serve the hot chowder with any desired toppings like crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or extra cheese for a delicious meal.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot or Dutch oven
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Whisk

FAQ

  • Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?Certainly! Great alternatives are ground turkey or chicken, which both provide a lighter option.

  • Q: Is it possible to make this chowder gluten-free?Absolutely, a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch may be used in place of all-purpose flour.

  • Q: How can I make the chowder thicker?A: You can achieve your desired chowder consistency by adding flour or more potato (mashed) to it.

  • Q: Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?Q: Is this correct? As in a traditional stew, the first step is to brown the beef and soften the vegetables before placing everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

  • Q: How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, as long as they are in an airtight container.

  • Q: Can I freeze Cheeseburger Chowder?A: Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

  • Q: What can I serve with Cheeseburger Chowder?You can have it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Substitutions and Variations

Minced beef: Minced turkey or plant-based meat substitute
Extra virgin olive oil: Vegetable oil or avocado oil
Broth: Chicken broth; Beef broth or vegetable broth
Cheddar cheese: Monterey Jack cheese or mozzarella cheese.
Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche.