There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, creamy, and hearty soup to make you feel at home, especially when it’s packed with the flavors of a cheeseburger. This creamy cheeseburger soup recipe combines tender ground beef, velvety cheddar cheese, and perfectly cooked vegetables into one rich and satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or meal prep, this recipe delivers big on taste and comfort.
If you’ve ever craved a cheeseburger but wanted something cozier, this soup is the perfect solution. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Here’s everything you need to create this comforting soup. The ingredients are simple, fresh, and easy to find:
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Soup Base | Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium (150 g) | |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | |
| Potatoes (peeled and diced) | 3 medium (450 g) | |
| Carrots (diced) | 2 medium (120 g) | |
| Chicken or beef broth | 3 cups (720 ml) | |
| Milk | 1 cup (240 ml) | |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half | 1 cup (240 ml) | |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup (30 g) | |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons (30 g) | |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon (to taste) | |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Paprika (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Cheese & Toppings | Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups (200 g) |
| Sour cream (optional) | 1/2 cup (120 ml) | |
| Fresh parsley or chives (garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make this delicious soup step by step. Each stage builds on the next to deliver a rich and flavorful result.
1. Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Build the Soup Base
- Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken to a creamy consistency.
4. Add the Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir to combine with the creamy soup base and vegetables.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with a dollop of sour cream, fresh parsley, or chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Warm, hearty, and packed with familiar flavors, it’s the perfect dish for any cold day.
- Cheeseburger Flavors in Every Bite: The savory beef, creamy cheddar, and tender veggies create a flavor that feels like a cheeseburger in soup form.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or extra cheese to make it your own.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, this soup is a beginner-friendly recipe.
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
Russet potatoes are the best choice for their creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option if you prefer something waxy.
2. Don’t Skip the Flour Mixture
The milk-and-flour mixture is key to thickening the soup. Whisk it thoroughly and stir it into the soup slowly to avoid lumps.
3. Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. Freshly shredded cheese ensures a smoother and creamier soup.
4. Experiment with Add-Ins
For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon, diced pickles, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce as toppings.
5. Adjust Seasonings to Taste
Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | ~800 mg |
Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this soup a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Absolutely. However, for best results, avoid adding the cream and cheese before freezing. Freeze the soup base, then add the cream and cheese when reheating.
3. What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken makes a great alternative for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
4. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Replace the milk, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, and vegan shredded cheese.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version of this soup.
6. What sides go best with cheeseburger soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion: Your Bowl of Comfort Awaits
This creamy cheeseburger soup recipe combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm and satisfying meal. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself.
Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this soup again and again. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy, delicious dish!
Pro Tip: Top your soup with crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of hot sauce for a gourmet twist!