When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of soup. If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers, you’re going to love this easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe. It’s a delicious blend of ground beef, creamy cheese, and savory vegetables, all simmered together to create a dish that tastes just like your favorite burger—but in soup form! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup is a rich and creamy soup that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into one comforting bowl. It’s packed with ground beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots, and finished with a velvety cheese sauce. The result is a hearty, satisfying soup that’s perfect for cold nights or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Save

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheeseburger Soup:

• 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean ground beef for a healthier option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2-3 medium potatoes)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth (chicken broth adds a lighter flavor, while beef broth enhances the meaty taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use 2% or a milk alternative)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds the best flavor)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, diced pickles, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Cheeseburger Soup:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced potatoes and carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or beef broth, and stir in the dried basil, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Combine and Add Cheese: Slowly pour the milk mixture into the soup pot, stirring to combine. Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. For extra creaminess, mix in the sour cream.
6. Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Save

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup. For the creamiest results, shred your own cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Cook the potatoes and carrots just until tender. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour to the roux. For a thinner soup, add more broth or milk.
• Brown the Beef Well: Take the time to brown the ground beef properly. This adds depth of flavor to the soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors develop even more.

Variations

This Cheeseburger Soup recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Cheeseburger Soup: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some celery, bell peppers, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique twist.

Topping Ideas

Just like a cheeseburger, this soup is even better with toppings! Here are some delicious ideas:

• Crumbled Bacon: Add a smoky, salty crunch with crispy bacon bits.
• Diced Pickles: For that classic burger flavor, sprinkle some diced pickles on top.
• Chopped Green Onions: Add a fresh, oniony bite.
• Shredded Cheese: A little extra cheese never hurts!
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Croutons: For a fun twist, top the soup with croutons for added texture.

How to Store

Cheeseburger Soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the warmth of a hearty soup. It’s simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, packing it for lunch, or freezing it for later, this soup is sure to satisfy. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious, cheesy goodness!