Easy Cheeseburger Soup

A Comforting and Hearty Soup for Any Occasion

Cheeseburger soup is the perfect blend of comfort food and convenience. This rich and creamy soup takes all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—ground beef, cheese, onions, and potatoes—and turns them into a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and sure to be a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses common pantry staples and affordable proteins.
• Rich and Creamy – The perfect balance of cheese, broth, and seasonings.
• Customizable – Add extra veggies, use different cheeses, or swap proteins for a personalized touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A hit with both kids and adults, especially for those who love cheeseburgers!

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for added tang)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the diced onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Add the diced potatoes, shredded carrots, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Roux

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly, until golden. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the roux mixture, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Mix well and let the soup simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

For extra creaminess, stir in heavy cream or sour cream before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional shredded cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

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Recipe Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger Soup – Add crumbled cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
• Low-Carb Version – Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
• Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
• Turkey or Chicken Version – Replace ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken.

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Servings and Timing

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

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup thicker?

To make the soup thicker, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux or let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and milk) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in cheese and milk at the end.

What can I serve with cheeseburger soup?

Serve with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I use Velveeta instead of cheddar?

Yes! Velveeta melts smoothly and creates an ultra-creamy texture. Use about 1½ cups cubed Velveeta in place of shredded cheddar.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Shred cheese fresh from a block and add it gradually while stirring to prevent clumping. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free milk alternative (like almond or coconut milk) and a dairy-free cheese substitute. Replace butter with olive oil.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

What is the best way to reheat this soup without it separating?

Reheat slowly over low heat while stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the dairy to separate.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Simply double all ingredients, but use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume.

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Conclusion

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, hearty soup. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, serve it with a side of bread, and enjoy a bowl of warm, cheesy goodness!

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