Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Easy Cheeseburger Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Bowl of Joy �🍔🧀

1. Introduction

There’s something magical about transforming classic comfort foods into new forms, and this Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe does exactly that with your favorite burger flavors. Imagine all the delicious components of a juicy cheeseburger – the savory beef, melted cheese, and those special burger seasonings – transformed into a warm, creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The best part? It comes together in just about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it one of those go-to recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

For those who love exploring different soup variations, you might enjoy checking out this classic cheeseburger soup recipe from AllRecipes as well, which offers a slightly different take on this comforting dish.

2. Ingredients

One of the best things about this Easy Cheeseburger Soup is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best for flavor and juiciness)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (yellow or white onions work well)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available)
• 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended to control saltiness)
• 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet potatoes hold up well)
• 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup diced celery (about 2 stalks)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds that signature burger flavor)
• 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil if available)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended for best flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk (2% works too, but whole milk makes it creamier)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening the soup)
• Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp each and adjust)
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, diced pickles, extra cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream

For more delicious meal ideas that the whole family will love, check out these family-friendly recipes that pair perfectly with our cheeseburger soup.

3. Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains (about 5-7 minutes). As the beef cooks, you’ll notice delicious brown bits forming on the bottom of the pot – these are packed with flavor! Add the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). If there’s excess grease (more than about 1 tablespoon), carefully drain it off, leaving just enough to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

Now it’s time to build the soup base. Add the diced potatoes, shredded carrots, and celery to the pot. These vegetables not only add nutrition but also create wonderful texture contrasts in the finished soup. Pour in the beef broth – you’ll notice how the liquid helps lift those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the Worcestershire sauce (that secret ingredient that gives the soup its distinctive “burger” flavor), dried basil, and paprika. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a lively boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

While the soup simmers, prepare the thickening mixture that will give your cheeseburger soup its luxurious, creamy texture. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until completely smooth – this is important to prevent lumps in your finished soup. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly as you add it. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, as the soup begins to thicken slightly. You’ll notice the broth transforming from thin to velvety – this is exactly what you want! If the soup seems too thick at this point, you can always add a splash more broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

Now for the pièce de résistance – the cheese! Reduce the heat to low to prevent the dairy from separating or becoming grainy. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until each addition melts completely before adding more. This gradual approach ensures a smooth, creamy texture rather than clumpy cheese. Once all the cheese is incorporated, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the cheese adds saltiness, so you might need less additional salt than you think. For serving, ladle the hot soup into bowls and let everyone customize their toppings – just like building their perfect burger! Classic options include crumbled bacon, diced pickles, extra shredded cheese, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that authentic burger feel.

4. Cooking Tips

To ensure your Easy Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these professional tips in mind:

• Cheese selection matters: While mild cheddar works, sharp or extra-sharp cheddar will give your soup a more pronounced cheese flavor that really stands out against the beef.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy a kick, add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when you add the other seasonings. The heat pairs wonderfully with the rich cheese.
• Lighter option: You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you’re looking for a leaner version. Just add an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavor.
• Resting time: Let the soup rest for about 5 minutes after adding the cheese. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to fully incorporate into the broth for maximum creaminess.
• Fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or chives at the end for a bright flavor contrast.

5. Storage and Reheating

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup stores beautifully for quick meals later in the week. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers – it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. The soup may thicken as it sits, so have some extra milk or broth on hand to adjust the consistency if needed. Unfortunately, this soup doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy content (the cheese can become grainy when thawed), so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

6. Serving Suggestions

While this soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete meal experience. For a casual family dinner, serve it with warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic toast – perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. If you’re aiming for a more balanced meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the soup. For the ultimate burger experience, set out small bowls of traditional burger toppings like pickle spears, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and even small bottles of ketchup and mustard for guests to add as they please. This soup also makes an excellent starter for a casual dinner party or game day gathering when served in smaller portions.

7. Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 25g (excellent source)
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g (mostly natural from vegetables)
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 850mg

For a lighter version, you can reduce the fat content by using lean ground beef (90/10), reduced-fat cheese, and low-fat milk. The soup will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.

8. Variations

One of the great things about this Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe is how adaptable it is to different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground “beef” crumbles and use vegetable broth. For the cheese, use your favorite vegan cheddar-style shreds and substitute the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk (soy or oat milk work best for creaminess).
• Gluten-free: Simply replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cornstarch or your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free too (many brands contain malt vinegar derived from barley).
• Extra Cheesy: For cheese lovers, stir in 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese along with the cheddar for an ultra-creamy, decadent version. You can also use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a bit of Parmesan for complex flavor.
• Loaded Burger Style: Go all out with toppings! Serve the soup with small bowls of diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, minced red onion, pickle relish, and even a drizzle of special sauce (mix mayo, ketchup, and pickle juice) for the full burger experience.
• Buffalo Style: Add 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce when you add the broth and use a blue cheese and cheddar blend for a spicy, tangy twist.

9. Conclusion

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, satisfying bowl. With its creamy texture, hearty beef, melty cheese, and familiar burger seasonings, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite that everyone will request again and again. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility – it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for casual entertaining, and it adapts easily to various dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the creative variations, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful. So next time you’re craving those familiar cheeseburger flavors but want something a little different, give this easy recipe a try – it might just become your new go-to comfort food!

Easy Cheeseburger Soup

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes—in a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup diced celery
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, diced pickles, extra cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in diced potatoes, shredded carrots, and diced celery. Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. In a separate small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
6. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens, approximately 2-3 minutes.
7. Slowly stir the milk mixture into the soup. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
8. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with optional toppings before serving.

Notes

• For added flavor, top the soup with crumbled bacon or diced pickles.
• To make the soup spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: cheeseburger soup, easy cheeseburger soup, ground beef soup, creamy soup recipe, comfort food