Introduction

Think a cheeseburger can’t be a soup? Think again. This Cheeseburger Soup recipe masterfully translates the iconic flavors of America’s favorite sandwich into a hearty, spoonable comfort food that delivers the same satisfaction in every creamy, savory bite.

Packed with ground beef, potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth, this one-pot wonder is the ultimate cozy meal. It’s a family-friendly dinner that comes together faster than firing up the grill, proving that the best parts of a cheeseburger don’t always need a bun.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy Cheeseburger Soup combines savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese with hearty potatoes and vegetables for a comforting bowl that tastes just like your favorite burger.

• 6 slices bacon
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Cheeseburger Soup recipe comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to streamlined preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook one pound of lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. For the best flavor, ensure the beef gets a nice brown crust.

Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to allow for proper browning. Drain any excess grease before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add one diced onion, two minced garlic cloves, and two stalks of diced celery to the pot with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.

Step 3 — Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in four cups of beef broth and add three cups of peeled, diced russet potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4 — Create the Roux

In a separate small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly to create a roux. This will thicken your Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 5 — Temper the Dairy

Gradually whisk in two cups of whole milk into the roux until the mixture is smooth. Slowly bring this to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, to thicken slightly. This tempering prevents the dairy from curdling when added to the hot soup.

Step 6 — Combine and Add Cheese

Pour the milk mixture into the large pot with the soup. Add two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir continuously over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Do not let it boil.

Tip: For the smoothest consistency, shred your own cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning and Serve

Stir in one teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Ladle the hot Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and garnish with cooked, crumbled bacon and extra cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	24g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey — A leaner protein option that still provides a savory, meaty flavor to your Cheeseburger Soup.
• Cauliflower Rice — A low-carb alternative to potatoes that adds bulk without the extra carbs.
• Nutritional Yeast — A dairy-free swap for cheese that offers a cheesy, umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free Flour — Use a 1:1 substitute to thicken the soup without gluten.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt content while maintaining the rich base of the soup.
• Greek Yogurt — A lighter, tangy alternative to sour cream for topping.
• Plant-Based Cheese — Melts smoothly for a vegan-friendly Cheeseburger Soup.
• Zucchini Noodles — Adds veggie volume and reduces carbs if you prefer a noodle-like texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty Cheeseburger Soup with a crisp side salad or some crunchy garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve it in a bread bowl for a fun, interactive dining experience that echoes its burger inspiration.
• This soup is perfect for game day gatherings, cozy family dinners, or any casual weeknight meal.
• Top individual bowls with extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, diced pickles, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded cheeseburger effect.
• Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
• For a kid-friendly twist, serve with mini toast “croutons” or baked french fry sticks on the side for dipping.

This comforting Cheeseburger Soup is incredibly versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser no matter how you choose to serve it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef, which can result in a dry, less flavorful soup. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to infuse the broth with rich, savory fat.
• Mistake: Adding cheese too early or over high heat, causing it to seize or become grainy. Fix: Remove the soup from heat and stir in shredded cheese gradually until fully melted.
• Mistake: Over-thickening with flour, creating a pasty texture instead of a creamy one. Fix: Use a roux in moderation and consider a cornstarch slurry for a smoother finish.
• Mistake: Skipping the sauté step for vegetables, leading to a lack of depth in flavor. Fix: Cook onions, carrots, and celery until softened to build a robust base.
• Mistake: Over-salting before the cheese is added, as cheese contributes saltiness. Fix: Season conservatively at first and adjust after incorporating the cheese.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting. Fix: Always shred cheese from a block for the creamiest Cheeseburger Soup.
• Mistake: Boiling the soup after adding dairy, which can cause curdling. Fix: Maintain a gentle simmer and avoid boiling once milk or cream is in the pot.
• Mistake: Neglecting to garnish, missing an opportunity for texture and freshness. Fix: Top with crispy bacon, fresh parsley, or pickles for a classic burger feel.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Cheeseburger Soup completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm your soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

For best results, avoid repeatedly reheating the entire batch. Instead, only reheat the portion you plan to eat immediately.

Conclusion

This rich and hearty Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, satisfying bowl. We hope you love this easy, family-friendly recipe as much as we do. Give it a try and be sure to leave a comment with your review or subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Cheeseburger Soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.

What type of cheese works best for Cheeseburger Soup?

We recommend using sharp cheddar cheese for its rich flavor and excellent melting properties. Velveeta or American cheese also work well to achieve a creamy texture in your Cheeseburger Soup.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?

Freezing is not recommended for this Cheeseburger Soup, as dairy-based soups can separate and become grainy when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerate for short-term storage.