The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe – Creamy, Comforting & Loaded with Flavor

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Introduction

If you’ve ever wished your favorite juicy cheeseburger could magically transform into a warm, cozy bowl of comfort… well, welcome to the delicious world of Cheeseburger Soup! This creamy, cheesy, fully loaded soup captures everything you love about a classic cheeseburger and wraps it in a spoon-worthy, comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out.

I still remember the first time I tasted Cheeseburger Soup. It was on a cold fall evening, the kind where you want something hearty but don’t feel like firing up the grill. A friend handed me a bowl and said, “Trust me.” One bite in, I knew this dish was going to be a regular in my kitchen forever. It had everything—savory beef, melty cheese, tender potatoes, and that nostalgic cheeseburger flavor that just makes you smile.

It’s no wonder this recipe has become so popular. It’s affordable, family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy enough for weeknights yet cozy enough for special gatherings. And the best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a craving for comfort.

Let’s jump into this unbelievably comforting Cheeseburger Soup recipe!

Ingredients

(Serves 6)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional but adds richness)

Ingredient Substitutions

Healthier Options

  • Replace regular ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.
  • Use reduced-fat cheddar or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
  • Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets for a low-carb version.

Vegan Options

To make vegan Cheeseburger Soup:

  • Use plant-based ground “beef”.
  • Replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
  • Use vegan cheddar shreds.
  • Replace butter with vegan butter.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Gluten-Free Options

  • Use a gluten-free flour blend in the roux.
  • Always check your broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat—this helps keep the soup smooth and prevents it from feeling greasy.

Tip: If you want deeper flavor, leave 1–2 tablespoons of fat in the pot for sautéing the veggies.

2. Add Aromatics and Veggies

Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. At this stage, your kitchen should already smell amazing!

3. Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the cubed potatoes, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Make the Roux (The Secret to Creaminess)

While the soup simmers, melt the butter in a separate small saucepan. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy base.

5. Combine the Roux with the Soup

Pour the milk mixture into your main soup pot and stir to combine. You’ll see the soup transform instantly into a thick, velvety base.

6. Add the Cheese

Turn the heat to low and begin adding shredded cheddar a handful at a time. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Tip:
Remove the pot from direct heat while adding cheese to prevent curdling. Cheese likes gentle warmth—not boiling temperatures.

7. Stir in Sour Cream

For extra creaminess and a slight tang, add the sour cream. This step is optional but highly recommended for that true cheeseburger flavor.

8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Give the soup a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or paprika as needed. Ladle into bowls and get ready for comfort in every bite.

Extra Tips

Serving Suggestions

  • Top with crispy bacon bits for extra burger vibes.
  • Garnish with chopped scallions, pickles, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  • Serve alongside toasted buns, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
  • Make it fun for kids by adding a little ketchup drizzle on top—yes, really!

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Cheeseburger Soup freezes well because it doesn’t contain high amounts of pasta or rice. Freeze up to 2–3 months in freezer-safe containers.
  • Reheating: Warm on low heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

  • Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Stir in cooked bacon pieces.
  • Deluxe Version: Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.
  • BBQ Twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce for smoky sweetness.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: ~22 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~28 g
  • Fat: ~28 g
  • Fiber: ~2 g
  • Sugars: ~6 g

(Values may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)

FAQ

How long does it take to make Cheeseburger Soup?

From start to finish, the recipe takes about 35–40 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknights!

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, bison, or plant-based meat substitutes. Each brings its own flavor and texture, but all work beautifully.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! Cheeseburger Soup freezes very well. Just let it cool, store it in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly to maintain creaminess.

Conclusion

If you’re craving warmth, comfort, and nostalgia in one bowl, Cheeseburger Soup is your new best friend. It’s rich, hearty, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply treating yourself to a cozy evening meal, this soup has you covered.

I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your kitchen just like it did in mine. If you try this Cheeseburger Soup, don’t forget to share your results! Leave a comment, snap a photo, and tag the dish—your version might inspire someone else’s next cozy meal.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting spoonful! 🍲🧀🍔