Cheeseburger soup brings together the best parts of a classic cheeseburger – savory beef, creamy cheese, and hearty vegetables – in one comforting bowl. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly night or a family dinner. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this soup is sure to become your new favorite comfort food.
Why We Love This Cheeseburger Soup
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of cheeseburger soup. It’s a dish that brings the familiar and satisfying taste of a cheeseburger into the realm of soup – blending savory beef, cheesy goodness, and an assortment of hearty vegetables. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food
When you need something hearty and comforting, cheeseburger soup is the answer. The smooth, velvety texture of the soup combined with the richness of melted cheddar cheese will warm you from the inside out, making it the perfect dish for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving something indulgent.
Quick and Easy to Make
Cheeseburger soup doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. In fact, you can prepare this recipe in under an hour. With just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques, you can create a filling meal that everyone will love.
Family-Friendly
This soup is a hit with kids and adults alike. The familiar taste of a cheeseburger is comforting and approachable, while the creamy texture makes it easy to eat. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone noticing.
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Soup
Ground Beef – Adds the savory flavor to the soup. Use lean for a lighter dish or fattier for more richness.
Onion – Gives a mild sweetness and depth to the soup.
Potatoes – Makes the soup hearty and thick. Russet potatoes work best.
Carrots – Add a bit of sweetness and color.
Garlic – Gives a savory punch to the soup.
Beef Broth – The base liquid that brings everything together. You can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth.
Cheddar Cheese – Provides a creamy, cheesy flavor. Shred it fresh for best results.
Milk – Adds creaminess. Use whole milk for a richer texture.
Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies.
Flour – Thickens the soup to the perfect creamy consistency.
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the simple steps to create your cheeseburger soup.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the diced onions, carrots, and garlic over medium heat. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the vegetables and infuses the soup with a savory aroma.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Beef Broth
Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Make the Roux
In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup. Slowly add the milk to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture is smooth, pour it into the simmering soup.
Step 5: Add Ground Beef and Cheese
Stir the cooked ground beef back into the soup. Then, slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated. This will give the soup its signature creamy, cheesy texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is thick and creamy, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like bacon bits, green onions, and chopped dill pickles. Enjoy your delicious, homemade cheeseburger soup!
Expert Tips for Making the Best Cheeseburger Soup
Use Full-Fat Dairy for Extra Creaminess
For a richer, creamier soup, opt for half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. These ingredients create a velvety texture that enhances the cheeseburger flavor.
Lean Ground Beef vs. Fatty Ground Beef
If you’re watching your calorie intake, lean ground beef is the way to go. However, for a juicier and more flavorful soup, consider using a fattier ground beef cut. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning.
Make It Ahead of Time
This soup gets even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Prepare it ahead of time for a convenient meal that’s ready to serve whenever you need it.
Variations of Cheeseburger Soup
Vegetarian Version
Want to make a vegetarian-friendly version? Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or beans. These options provide a similar texture and allow you to enjoy the same rich flavors without the meat.
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
For those who like a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. This variation adds a zesty kick that complements the cheesy base beautifully.
Cheese Variations
While cheddar is the classic cheese for this soup, you can easily experiment with other cheeses. Try using mozzarella for a milder, stretchier texture or gouda for a smokier flavor.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup
Pair It with Sides
Cheeseburger soup is filling on its own, but pairing it with a simple side dish can complete the meal. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra cheesy experience.
Add Toppings
Don’t forget to top your cheeseburger soup with extra flavor! Bacon bits, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and even dill pickles make excellent toppings that mimic the traditional cheeseburger.
More soup recipes you will love!
homemade cream of chicken soup
FAQs About Cheeseburger Soup
What is cheeseburger soup made of?
Cheeseburger soup is made from ground beef, vegetables like potatoes and carrots, beef broth, and a creamy base of milk and cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying soup that tastes just like a cheeseburger in a bowl!
Can I make cheeseburger soup in advance?
Absolutely! Cheeseburger soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
How do I make cheeseburger soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry. Both methods will give the soup a thicker, creamier consistency.
Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Pan
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean or fatty to your preference
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- as needed olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic in olive oil in the same pot for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add diced potatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux. Add milk slowly, stirring constantly, until smooth.
- Pour the roux mixture into the simmering soup, stirring to combine. Add the browned beef and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings such as bacon bits, green onions, and dill pickles.