Cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with the warmth and coziness of a hearty soup. Whether you're craving something savory on a cold day or looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe to bring to a potluck, this cheeseburger soup will hit the spot! Read on to discover how to make this delicious and creamy soup, along with tips on substitutions, variations, and expert presentation ideas to make your dish truly stand out. Let’s dive into the world of cheeseburger soup and make your next meal an unforgettable one.

What is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger soup is exactly what it sounds like – a delicious soup that brings together all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger but in a comforting, warm liquid form. It’s a rich, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves a good cheeseburger. You get the savory flavor of ground beef, the creamy tang of cheddar cheese, and all the additional flavors from veggies and seasonings in every bite. This soup is like having all the best parts of a cheeseburger, but instead of a bun, you get to enjoy it by the spoonful.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

Before we get started, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's everything you’ll need to make the best cheeseburger soup:

Ground beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (80/20 is ideal for a balance of flavor and fat content)
Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
Celery: 2 celery stalks, diced
Potatoes: 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Flour: ¼ cup of all-purpose flour (to create a roux)
Chicken or beef broth: 3 cups of low-sodium broth
Whole milk or half-and-half: 2 cups (for a rich, creamy texture)
Cheddar cheese: 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper: To taste
Paprika: ½ teaspoon for added flavor
Mustard: 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard (for that authentic cheeseburger taste)
Ketchup: 2 tablespoons (optional, for an added hint of sweetness)
Dill pickles: ¼ cup of diced pickles for garnish (optional)
Bacon bits: ¼ cup (optional for topping)
Green onions: ¼ cup, sliced thinly for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about this cheeseburger soup recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have available in your pantry.

Ground beef substitutions: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use a plant-based ground beef substitute for a vegetarian version.
Cheese variations: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Low-carb variation: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets to reduce the carb content while still keeping the soup creamy and filling.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make this soup vegan-friendly.
Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, throw in spinach, kale, or even bell peppers.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients depending on your tastes or dietary needs!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the best cheeseburger soup ever? Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or any occasion.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cook the ground beef: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
Make the roux: Lower the heat to medium, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux.
Add the broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or beef broth while stirring, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Incorporate the milk and cheese: Stir in the milk or half-and-half, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Return the beef to the pot: Add the cooked ground beef back into the soup. Stir well to combine everything. Season the soup with salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, and ketchup (if using). Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
Final touches: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. For added cheeseburger flavor, you can stir in some chopped dill pickles or bacon bits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the roux: The roux is what helps thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency. Skipping this step will result in a thinner, less hearty soup.
Overcooking the vegetables: Be sure to cook the vegetables just until tender. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy texture.
Not shredding your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make the soup grainy. For the smoothest, creamiest soup, shred your own cheese from a block.
Adding the milk too quickly: Always lower the heat before adding the milk or half-and-half. If added too quickly to a boiling soup, the dairy can curdle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take your cheeseburger soup from good to great. Since this soup is already rich and hearty, serving it with the right accompaniments and garnishes can enhance its flavors even more.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

In bread bowls: Hollow out small loaves of crusty bread and ladle the soup inside for a fun, edible serving option.
With toasted baguette slices: Serve toasted slices of French baguette on the side for dipping.
Top with bacon and pickles: Garnish each bowl with crispy bacon bits and diced dill pickles for a cheeseburger-inspired finishing touch.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

Garnish smartly: A sprinkle of green onions, a handful of shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits on top can make your soup look as good as it tastes.
Use vibrant bowls: Choose brightly colored bowls that contrast with the creamy yellow hue of the soup for an eye-catching presentation.
Layer toppings: Serve the soup with a small dollop of sour cream and additional garnishes like fresh parsley or croutons for extra visual appeal.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

For extra thickness, use heavy cream in place of milk or half-and-half.
Freeze for later: This soup freezes well! Just make sure to freeze it without the dairy, as cream-based soups can separate when thawed. Add the dairy when reheating.
Add a spicy kick: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?

Yes! Cheeseburger soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop and add a little extra milk or broth if it’s too thick.

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the dairy. Once you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup, reheat it, and then add the milk and cheese.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can brown the beef and sauté the veggies on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese and milk toward the end.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate cheeseburger soup recipe! With its rich, creamy texture and bold, savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting meal for a cozy night in, this soup hits all the right notes. Don’t forget to try out some of the suggested variations to make this recipe uniquely yours! Happy cooking!