Craving the flavors of a cheeseburger but looking for something a little more cozy? This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is the perfect answer. It’s a rich, creamy soup filled with ground beef, tender potatoes, vegetables, and plenty of cheese—just like your favorite burger but in a warm, comforting bowl. This one-pot recipe is simple to make, budget-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights or when you're craving a big bowl of comfort food. Let’s dive into this delicious soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

What Is "Cheeseburger Soup"?

Cheeseburger Soup is a creamy, cheesy soup that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—ground beef, cheese, and all the fixings—into a comforting soup. Potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes celery are added to create a hearty base, while the beef gives the soup a savory richness. The soup is finished with plenty of cheddar cheese, making it creamy and indulgent. It’s like having your favorite burger, but in soup form!

Ingredients List for Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious and creamy Cheeseburger Soup:

Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides the savory, meaty flavor that mimics a cheeseburger.
Potatoes (3 medium, diced) – Adds heartiness to the soup.
Carrots (2 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and color.
Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds depth and flavor to the base.
Celery (2 ribs, diced) – Optional, for extra flavor and texture.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds a rich, savory flavor.
Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The liquid base that cooks the vegetables and beef.
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Provides the signature cheesy flavor.
Milk or Half-and-Half (1½ cups) – Adds creaminess to the soup.
Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used to sauté the vegetables.
All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup) – Helps thicken the soup.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a savory, umami kick.
Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the soup.
Optional Garnishes – Crumbled bacon, green onions, or additional shredded cheese.

Substitutions and Variations for Easy Cheeseburger Soup

This soup is versatile and can be adapted based on what you have on hand or your preferences:

Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap the ground beef for a lighter option like turkey or chicken.
Vegetarian Version – Use plant-based meat crumbles or diced mushrooms and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Cauliflower Instead of Potatoes – Substitute cauliflower florets for potatoes if you want a lower-carb version.
Cheese Variations – Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
Add Bacon – Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for an extra indulgent twist.
Gluten-Free Option – Skip the flour and thicken the soup with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Cheeseburger Soup:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery (if using), and garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring, ensuring the flour fully dissolves into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Add the Beef Back In

Once the potatoes are tender, return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Milk and Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the milk or half-and-half. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or green onions. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cook the Beef – Brown the ground beef and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables – Cook onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Add Broth and Potatoes – Add chicken broth, potatoes, and seasonings; simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the Beef – Return the cooked beef to the pot and heat through.
Add Cheese and Milk – Stir in the milk and melted cheese until the soup is creamy.
Serve – Garnish and serve with your favorite toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly:

Overcooking the Potatoes – Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy. Test them with a fork after 10-12 minutes.
Curdling the Milk – Avoid adding cold milk directly to the hot soup. Warm the milk slightly or add it gradually to prevent curdling.
Skipping the Roux – The flour and butter mixture helps thicken the soup. Don’t skip this step, or the soup may be too thin.
Adding Cheese All at Once – Add the cheese gradually and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.
Not Seasoning Enough – Be sure to season each layer of the soup (the beef, vegetables, broth) for the best flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are a few tips for serving and presenting your Cheeseburger Soup:

Garnish with Toppings – Add garnishes like crumbled bacon, green onions, or extra cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Serve with Bread – Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or rolls for dipping.
Add a Side Salad – Balance the richness of the soup with a light, fresh salad on the side.
Serve in Bread Bowls – For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

This Cheeseburger Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are a few sides and accompaniments that pair perfectly with it:

Crusty Bread or Rolls – Serve the soup with warm bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds extra flavor and crunch.
French Fries – For a fun take on the cheeseburger theme, serve with a side of crispy fries.
Pickles – Add some pickles or a pickle spear on the side for a tangy contrast to the rich soup.
Green Salad – A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

Here are some creative ways to present your Cheeseburger Soup:

Serve in Bread Bowls – Hollow out small sourdough loaves or rolls and serve the soup inside for a fun and edible bowl.
Top with a Cheese Sprinkle – Add a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the soup just before serving.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Serve with Mini Sliders – For a fun twist, serve mini cheeseburger sliders alongside the soup for a double cheeseburger experience.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly every time:

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – For the smoothest melting, shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which can have anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Don’t Boil After Adding Milk – Once you’ve added the milk or half-and-half, lower the heat and avoid boiling the soup to prevent the dairy from curdling.
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Make It Ahead** – This soup reheats beautifully, so you can make it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve. It may thicken in the fridge, so add a little broth when reheating.

Double the Recipe – This soup freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a quick meal on busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cheeseburger Soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth if needed to thin it out.

Q: Can I use Velveeta cheese instead of cheddar?
A: Yes, if you prefer a smoother, creamier texture, you can use Velveeta cheese instead of cheddar.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything except the cheese and milk to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the cheese and milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that will satisfy your cravings for a classic cheeseburger, but in a warm, creamy soup form. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s the perfect recipe to add to your soup rotation. So grab your ingredients and enjoy a bowl of this delicious, comforting soup tonight!