Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

There's something irresistibly cozy about a steaming bowl of Cheeseburger Soup. This creamy, hearty dish combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, one-pot meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. From the savory ground beef to the melted cheddar cheese, every spoonful is a warm hug for your taste buds.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to use up some leftover ground beef and cheddar cheese. What began as an experiment quickly became a family favorite, requested on repeat during the colder months. Ready to learn how to make this easy Cheeseburger Soup? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup

Get ready to add this Cheeseburger Soup to your dinner rotation – it’s about to become a household favorite. Here's why this recipe is a standout:

• Quick and Simple: You can have this soup on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required!
• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe minimizes cleanup by using just one pot for everything, from browning the beef to simmering the soup.
• Kid-Approved: If you’ve got picky eaters at home, this soup is a lifesaver. The flavors are familiar, comforting, and so easy to love.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, this meal is a satisfying and wallet-friendly way to feed the whole family.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to fit your dietary preferences. Swap the beef for turkey or add extra veggies for a healthier twist.

So grab your ladle and let’s get started – this Cheeseburger Soup is calling your name!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cheeseburger Soup lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one brings a unique element to the dish, creating layers of flavor and creamy texture.

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty but not overly greasy. If you’re using fattier ground beef, be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best here, as they hold their shape well while cooking and have a creamy texture. Peel and dice them into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and gives the soup its rich, cheesy flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains additives that can prevent smooth melting.
• Vegetables: Diced onions, celery, and carrots add a subtle sweetness and balance to the savory beef and cheese. These veggies form the flavor base of the soup.
• Broth and Milk: A combination of chicken or beef broth and whole milk creates a creamy, flavorful soup base. You can substitute half-and-half for an even richer result.
• Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of paprika enhances the burger-inspired flavors.

No special equipment is required – just a large soup pot or Dutch oven to cook everything in one place.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Making this Cheeseburger Soup is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the diced potatoes, broth, and seasonings to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Make It Creamy: Stir in the cooked ground beef, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the soup simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
5. Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with the back of a spoon or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

This soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute dinner ideas or lazy weekend lunches.

Storage Options

This Cheeseburger Soup is great for leftovers, and storing it properly will ensure it tastes just as delicious the next day.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating.
• Freezer: While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes and cheese may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: If the soup thickens too much after storage, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cheeseburger Soup is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in some frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach for an extra dose of nutrients.
• Kick Up the Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy version of this soup.
• Make It Low-Carb: Replace the potatoes with diced cauliflower for a keto-friendly option that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.

No matter how you tweak it, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Get ready to curl up with a bowl of this Cheeseburger Soup and enjoy all the comforting flavors of your favorite burger – no bun required. It's a meal the whole family will love, and it might just become your new go-to recipe for busy weeknights!

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