Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Hearty

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly evening. Now, imagine all the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger transformed into a rich, spoonable delight. That’s exactly what cheeseburger soup offers—a cozy, indulgent dish that feels like a big, warm hug in every bite.

This easy cheeseburger soup is packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a velvety cheese base that makes it irresistibly rich and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen hero because, despite its creamy, flavorful depth, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. In less than an hour, you can have a hearty meal on the table that the whole family will love.

I first came across cheeseburger soup during a family gathering. My aunt, known for her love of comfort food, brought over a steaming pot of what she called “liquid gold.” One spoonful, and I was hooked. The blend of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and soft potatoes created a perfect balance of flavors—savory, cheesy, and just the right amount of hearty. Ever since that day, this soup has become a go-to meal in my home, especially during the colder months.

Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, cheeseburger soup is a guaranteed hit. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and why you need to add it to your menu rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with cheeseburger soup. It’s rich, satisfying, and comes together easily with everyday ingredients. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your comfort food collection.

It’s Packed with Classic Cheeseburger Flavors

This soup captures everything you love about a good cheeseburger—savory ground beef, melted cheese, and a creamy texture that makes every spoonful feel indulgent. The combination of seasonings, broth, and cheese creates a bold, comforting taste that instantly reminds you of your favorite diner-style burger.

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

With simple steps and minimal prep time, this cheeseburger soup is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll only need one pot, a handful of ingredients, and about 45 minutes from start to finish. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can confidently pull off this recipe without any stress.

It’s Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love this soup. The familiar cheeseburger flavors make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and the creamy texture makes it feel extra special. It’s a great way to get picky eaters excited about dinner.

It’s Customizable

Want to add a little spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños. Looking for extra crunch? Sprinkle crispy bacon or croutons on top. You can even lighten it up by swapping the potatoes for cauliflower or using ground turkey instead of beef. The possibilities are endless!

It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm bowl of cheesy, beefy soup. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cold days, cozy nights, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.

Now that you know why this soup is a must-try, let’s explore its health benefits.

Health Benefits

While cheeseburger soup is undoubtedly a rich and indulgent dish, it also has some surprising nutritional benefits. Here’s why you can enjoy it without guilt.

High in Protein

Thanks to the ground beef and cheese, this soup is packed with protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied for longer. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy levels.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

The combination of vegetables and dairy in this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots and potatoes add fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, while cheese and milk contribute calcium for strong bones.

Balanced Carbs for Energy

Potatoes provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, which give you steady energy without causing a crash. If you want a lower-carb version, you can swap the potatoes for cauliflower.

Customizable for Dietary Needs

This soup can be easily adjusted to fit different dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour. To make it lower in fat, choose lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.

Now that we’ve covered why this soup is both delicious and nutritious, let’s look at how much time you’ll need to prepare it.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Total Preparation Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g

This soup is a great option for meal prep since it reheats beautifully. Now, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make it.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

• ½ lb ground beef (lean or regular)
• 4 tbsp butter (divided)
• ¾ cup diced carrots
• ¾ cup diced celery
• ¾ cup diced onion
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 3 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for deeper flavor)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1-2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed (or shredded cheddar)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¾ tsp salt
• ¼-½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)

Optional Toppings:

• Onion rings
• Crumbled turkey or beef bacon
• Chopped green onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Crackers or croutons (from burger buns)
• Chopped pickles (for a true cheeseburger taste)

Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
• Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, melt another tablespoon of butter.
• Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, basil, and parsley.
• Sauté for 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

3. Add Potatoes & Broth

• Stir in the diced potatoes, cooked ground beef, and chicken broth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Make a Roux

• In a separate small pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.
• Stir in the flour, cooking and whisking continuously for 3-5 minutes until it starts to bubble and turn light golden.
• Slowly whisk this roux into the soup to help thicken it.

5. Incorporate Dairy & Cheese

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Velveeta cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
• Remove from heat and stir in sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
• Serve with toasted burger buns or crackers on the side for the full cheeseburger experience.

How to Serve

Cheeseburger soup is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pot. The creamy texture, combined with the rich, cheesy goodness, makes it a satisfying meal on its own. However, if you want to elevate the experience, here are some delicious ways to serve it.

Classic Burger-Style Presentation

For the full cheeseburger experience, serve this soup with toasted burger buns or garlic bread on the side. You can lightly butter the buns and toast them on a skillet until golden brown, giving them a slight crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.

Toppings to Add More Flavor and Texture

Just like a classic cheeseburger, this soup can be customized with a variety of toppings. Here are some tasty additions:

• Crispy beef or turkey bacon crumbles – Adds a smoky crunch that enhances the cheeseburger feel.
• Diced pickles – If you love pickles on your burger, try adding a few chopped pieces to the soup for a tangy contrast.
• Sour cream – A small dollop on top makes the soup extra creamy and adds a slight tanginess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – More cheese is always a good idea! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top adds an extra cheesy punch.
• Green onions or chives – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
• Croutons or toasted burger bun cubes – For a bit of crunch, chop up a toasted bun into small cubes and sprinkle them over the soup.

Pairing Suggestions

Best Side Dishes for Cheeseburger Soup

A hearty soup like this pairs well with sides that either complement its richness or provide a contrasting texture. Here are some great options:

• Oven-Baked Fries or Potato Wedges – Keep the burger theme going by serving this soup with crispy potato wedges or classic fries.
• Simple Green Salad – A fresh salad with romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing balances the richness of the soup.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans add nutrition and texture.
• Coleslaw – A tangy, slightly sweet coleslaw can cut through the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing contrast.

Beverage Pairings

Choosing the right drink can enhance the flavors of the soup. Here are a few ideas:

• Iced Tea or Lemonade – A refreshing, slightly tart drink balances the soup’s creamy texture.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus – A fizzy, lemon- or lime-infused water provides a crisp contrast.
• Milk or a Creamy Shake – For an indulgent diner-style experience, serve the soup with a vanilla or chocolate milkshake.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Cheeseburger soup stores well, making it an excellent meal prep option. Follow these guidelines to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Refrigeration

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Freezing

Cheeseburger soup contains dairy, which can sometimes separate when frozen. However, if you want to freeze it, here’s how to do it properly:

• Let the soup cool completely.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating from Frozen

• Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
• Add a little milk or broth to help bring back the creamy texture.

Avoid These Mistakes When Storing and Reheating

• Do not microwave straight from frozen – It can cause uneven heating and texture changes.
• Reheat slowly – High heat can cause the dairy to separate.
• Add liquid if needed – A little broth or milk helps revive the soup’s creamy consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though cheeseburger soup is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Overcooking the Potatoes

Potatoes cook quickly, and if they’re overcooked, they can become too soft and make the soup mushy. To avoid this, keep an eye on them and test with a fork after 10-12 minutes of simmering.

2. Using Too Much Flour

Adding too much flour can make the soup too thick or create a pasty texture. Stick to the recommended ¼ cup and always mix it well with melted butter before adding it to the soup.

3. Not Draining the Ground Beef

If you don’t drain the excess fat from the beef, the soup can become greasy. Always drain the meat after browning it.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

Want to take your cheeseburger soup to the next level? Follow these pro tips.

• Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. Grate your own for a smoother texture.
• For a smoky twist, use smoked cheddar – This adds depth and a gourmet touch.
• If you like spice, add diced jalapeños – A little heat pairs well with the creamy cheese.
• For extra richness, use a mix of Velveeta and sharp cheddar – This gives the perfect balance of smoothness and bold flavor.
• Garnish just before serving – This ensures toppings stay fresh and crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

2. What’s the best cheese to use?

Velveeta makes it ultra creamy, but a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack also works well.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything except dairy to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, then stir in cheese and milk at the end.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe.

5. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

Mash some of the potatoes or add a small cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with all the delicious flavors of a classic burger. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Try it today, and let me know how it turns out! If you make it, share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media with your creation. Happy cooking!

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