If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food, Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a recipe you don’t want to miss. Packed with tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, it brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, comforting bowl. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick family dinner or looking for a dish to serve on a chilly evening, this cheeseburger soup is sure to hit the spot.

Why Make Cheeseburger Soup?

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about cheeseburgers, but sometimes you want those same bold flavors in a dish that’s more comforting and hearty. This is where Cheeseburger Soup shines. Here’s why you should try this recipe:

  • Hearty Comfort Food: This soup has everything you love about cheeseburgers—savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and comforting potatoes—served up in a thick, satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this is an excellent recipe for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Cheeseburger flavors are universally loved, making this soup a hit with kids and adults alike. You can also customize the toppings to please every palate.
  • Versatile: This soup is adaptable. You can easily modify it to suit dietary preferences (like making it gluten-free) or tweak the ingredients based on what you have available.

Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Ingredients List

Before you get started, gather these ingredients for your cheeseburger soup:

  • 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a slightly fattier version if you want extra flavor.
  • ½ cup onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the soup.
  • ¾ cup celery, diced – For some crunch and a fresh flavor balance.
  • 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced – Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
  • 3 cups chicken broth – This is the base of the soup and adds a savory richness.
  • ¼ cup flour – Helps to thicken the soup.
  • 3 cups milk – Creates the creamy consistency we all crave.
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – The star ingredient! Go for sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor.
  • ½ cup sour cream – Adds extra creaminess and tanginess.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – To bring out the flavors.
  • Optional toppings: crispy bacon, chopped parsley, or additional cheese – Add as much or as little as you like!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect cheeseburger soup:

  1. Brown the ground beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Break up the beef as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
  2. Cook the onions and celery: Add the diced onions and celery to the pot with the beef. Cook them for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. This adds extra flavor to the base of the soup.
  3. Add broth and potatoes: Stir in the chicken broth and diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Make the flour-milk mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the soup thickens.
  5. Add the cheese: Once the soup has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Stir in sour cream: Just before serving, stir in the sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess. Be sure to add this at the end to avoid curdling.
  7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings. Crispy bacon, chopped parsley, and extra cheese are always great options!

Tips and Substitutions

To make sure your Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips and possible ingredient substitutions:

  • Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a bit more flour to the milk mixture. Alternatively, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the soup.
  • Substitute the Beef: If you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Simply whisk the cornstarch with cold milk before adding it to the soup.
  • Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Gouda for a different flavor profile.
  • Lactose-Free Option: For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free milk and cheese. You can also skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Recipe Variations

This cheeseburger soup recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to switch it up depending on your preferences:

  • Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add crispy bacon either on top as a garnish or stir it directly into the soup for a richer, smokier flavor.
  • Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Take this dish to the next level by loading it with classic burger toppings like pickles, tomatoes, and even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard on top.
  • Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: For a kick of heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also use pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar.
  • Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich and hearty.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of some key ingredients in Cheeseburger Soup:

  • Ground Beef: A great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and overall health.
  • Potatoes: Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, potatoes are a nutritious, filling base for this soup.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and vitamin D, all of which are important for bone health.
  • Celery and Onion: Both are low-calorie vegetables packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber to support digestion and immunity.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Serving Suggestions:

  • With Bread: This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll to soak up all the creamy goodness.
  • Garnish Ideas: Aside from crispy bacon and extra cheese, try topping the soup with croutons or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added texture and flavor.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally.
  • Freeze: You can freeze cheeseburger soup for up to 3 months. However, since it contains dairy, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To prevent this, stir in the cheese and sour cream only after reheating the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Cheeseburger soup can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for a different twist.

3. How do I avoid a grainy texture when adding cheese?
Make sure to add the cheese off the heat or on low heat to prevent it from curdling or becoming grainy. Stir the cheese in gradually for the smoothest result.

4. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use beef broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitute.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Cheeseburger Soup, here are a few more hearty, comforting recipes to try:

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy, and hearty soup that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Its rich texture, combined with savory meat, tangy cheese, and tender vegetables, makes it a satisfying option that the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or just looking to indulge in something comforting on a chilly day, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal tastes by adding your favorite toppings, such as crispy bacon, fresh diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own!

We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite. If you loved it, don’t forget to explore more of our comforting soup recipes and meal ideas on our website. We’d love to hear about your experience—whether you followed the recipe as is or added your own twist—so be sure to leave a comment and share your thoughts or variations. Your feedback helps us continue creating recipes that bring comfort and joy to your table.

So go ahead, indulge in a bowl of Cheeseburger Soup, and bring a little extra warmth and flavor to your day!