If you have ever wished for a comforting bowl that tastes just like your favorite classic burger turned into a warm, creamy hug in a bowl, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors that make cheeseburgers so irresistible, but in a cozy, slurpable form that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a hearty meal. Every spoonful delivers perfectly cooked ground beef, tender veggies, and a luscious cheesy broth that feels like home in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a bowl full of amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, from seasoning the beef to adding creaminess and that signature cheesy richness you crave.
- 1 pound ground beef: This forms the meaty, savory base that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth once cooked until translucent.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful aromatic punch.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These provide comforting body and a tender texture that soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Sweetness and a pop of color come from these vibrant veggies.
- 4 cups beef broth: The liquid base that ties everything together with rich, savory goodness.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star that makes this soup irresistibly creamy and cheesy.
- 1 cup milk or cream: Adds smoothness and balances flavors for a luscious finish.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Introduces subtle tanginess and depth.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: A little zing that brightens the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the dish.
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned and fragrant. Browning the beef well builds the savory foundation for the soup and brings out those deep meaty flavors. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook them until they’re tender and translucent, releasing that mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen with promise.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth
Next, stir in the diced potatoes and carrots—these veggies not only add texture but also a welcoming sweetness. Pour in the beef broth to cover everything and bring the pot to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, typically about 15 minutes. This slow cooking melds all the flavors together perfectly and softens the veggies just right.
Step 3: Blend in the Dairy and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the milk or cream, along with the tomato paste and mustard. The tomato paste brings a rich, slightly tangy depth, while the mustard adds an exciting little zing that lifts the dish. Be sure to warm this mixture gently—don’t let it boil—so the dairy doesn’t curdle and the texture stays silky smooth.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese while stirring constantly. This step transforms the soup into a creamy, cheesy dream. The cheese melts into the broth, creating a rich, velvety texture that perfectly mimics the flavor of a classic cheeseburger with every spoonful.
Step 5: Taste and Finish
Finally, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or a touch of mustard for that extra kick. Serve the Cheeseburger Soup Recipe hot and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food that feels just like a warm hug after a long day.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this soup beyond amazing, top it with crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of green onions or chives, and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. These additions add layers of texture and bursts of flavor that make every spoonful even more satisfying.
Side Dishes
While this soup is a meal on its own, pairing it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad offers a perfect balance. The bread is great for dipping and soaking up all that delicious cheesy broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls or rustic mugs that make your meal feel special and homey. You can also swirl in a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to add a personal twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. The flavors actually deepen over time, so leftovers taste just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup to enjoy later by placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes might soften further after freezing, but the cheesy richness remains just as comforting. Freeze for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching and to maintain that perfect creamy consistency. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth and stir to loosen it up before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe because of its bold flavor and meltability, you can experiment with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a unique twist.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rest of the ingredients and cooking method remain the same to keep it deliciously comforting.
Can I use leftover cooked potatoes?
You can, but fresh potatoes work best to achieve the ideal texture in this soup. Leftover cooked potatoes might turn too soft or mushy during simmering, which can alter the soup’s texture.
What if I prefer a thicker soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash a few cooked potatoes against the side of the pot or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water during the heating step. Just cook a few minutes longer until it thickens to your liking.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef and cook onions and garlic first, then transfer everything including veggies, broth, and seasonings to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in milk, cheese, and finish as usual.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe, I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen. It combines all the joy of a cheeseburger with the soul-soothing warmth of a homemade soup, making it irresistible for family dinners or any time you crave something totally comforting and delicious. Grab your ingredients, cozy up, and enjoy every cheesy, savory spoonful!
Print
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy cheeseburger soup loaded with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese. This comforting soup combines savory flavors with a smooth, velvety texture, perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Seasonings and Condiments
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef and aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it is nicely browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Add the vegetables and broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. Pour in the beef broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Blend in the dairy and seasonings: Lower the heat to gently warm the soup. Stir in milk or cream, tomato paste, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper, taking care not to let the soup boil to prevent curdling.
- Melt in the cheese: Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy texture throughout the soup.
- Taste and finish: Adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or mustard for an extra zing. Serve the soup hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold flavor.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a tablespoon of flour with the beef.
- Substitute milk with cream for a richer taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers for added texture.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid curdling.
