Easy Cheeseburger Soup

A Comforting, Cheesy Delight in a Bowl

If you love the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but crave something warm and comforting, this Easy Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect dish. It combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, and creamy broth with hearty potatoes and vegetables for a rich, satisfying meal. This soup is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a great weeknight dinner.
• Rich and creamy – The combination of cheddar cheese, cream, and beef broth results in a velvety texture.
• Hearty and filling – Loaded with protein, vegetables, and potatoes, this soup is a full meal in a bowl.
• Family-friendly – The flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm and comforting form make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until softened.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, water, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Slowly stir the mixture into the soup, then add the cooked ground beef back into the pot. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. If using, stir in the sour cream for added creaminess.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Low-carb version – Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
• Spicy cheeseburger soup – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Bacon cheeseburger soup – Stir in crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
• Lighter option – Use ground turkey instead of beef and substitute half-and-half for the milk.
• Gluten-free adaptation – Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) or mash some of the potatoes in the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except cheese, milk, and flour to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cheese, milk, and flour mixture 30 minutes before serving.

Can I use Velveeta instead of shredded cheddar?

Absolutely! Velveeta melts smoothly and gives the soup an ultra-creamy texture. Use about 1 ½ cups cubed Velveeta in place of shredded cheese.

What’s the best way to add more flavor?

Try adding Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or a splash of pickle juice for a more authentic cheeseburger taste.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but block cheese melts better because pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure to reduce the heat before adding cheese, and stir continuously to help it melt smoothly.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors that kids love. You can also blend the vegetables for a smoother consistency if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly and reheat gently.

What toppings go well with cheeseburger soup?

Try bacon crumbles, diced pickles, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, or crispy fried onions to mimic the flavors of a real cheeseburger.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes, adding cooked macaroni, shell pasta, or elbow noodles makes it even heartier. Just stir it in before serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, hearty soup form. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a fantastic meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of cheesy, beefy goodness!

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