There’s something magical about soup season, isn’t there? It’s when the weather cools down, the sweaters come out, and the cravings for cozy, hearty meals kick in. Enter Creamy Cheeseburger Soup. This delicious bowl combines everything we love about cheeseburgers: savory beef, melty cheese, soft potatoes, and that comforting richness, all in soup form.
It’s the recipe that warms you from the inside out and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, this dish has you covered.
Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded or diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika or dry mustard for extra flavor (Optional)
- Crumbled bacon, diced pickles, green onions, extra cheese (garnishes)
What Is Creamy Cheeseburger Soup?
Think of it as your favorite fast-food burger reinvented. Creamy cheeseburger soup is a rich, cheesy, and savory soup made with ground beef, onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, cheddar cheese, and cream. It’s typically thickened with a roux and finished off with milk or half-and-half to give it acreamy finish.
Unlike traditional cheeseburgers, this soup skips the bun and brings all the comforting flavors into a spoon-friendly format. It’s a family-friendly crowd-pleaser and an ideal meal for chilly days, potlucks, or just when you need a little culinary hug.
How to Make Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Let’s walk through the process of making this creamy cheeseburger soup from start to finish. It’s beginner-friendly and comes together in under an hour!
Step 1. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to a separate plate.
Step 2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, melt the butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
- Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4. Make the Roux
- In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter (or use a fresh 3 tablespoons if needed). Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half to make a smooth sauce. Continue cooking until thickened, then slowly pour it into the soup, stirring to combine.
Step 5. Add the Cheese
- Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed—salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika go a long way.
Step 6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings—bacon bits, chopped pickles, or more cheese. Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete, soul-warming meal.
How to Make It Even Better
Even the best recipes benefit from a few insider tips. Here’s how to make your creamy cheeseburger soup even more amazing:
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: You want them tender, not mushy.
- Make it lighter: Substitute ground turkey and use milk instead of half-and-half to cut some calories.
- Thicken to your liking: Add a cornstarch slurry if it’s too thin. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.
- Add pickles at the end: For that true cheeseburger tang, stir in chopped pickles just before serving—or offer them as a garnish.
What to Serve with Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
This rich, cheesy soup is incredibly satisfying. It shines even brighter with the right side dishes or toppings.
Toppings to Try
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Diced dill pickles
- Crushed potato chips
- More shredded cheese
Sides That Pair Well
- Crusty French bread or garlic toast
- Classic Caesar salad or coleslaw
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Buttery biscuits or pretzel rolls
How to Store Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly.
- Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Just know that creamy soups may separate slightly when thawed. To freeze, cool the soup fully, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Conclusion: A Comfort Food Favorite
There you have it the ultimate guide to making creamy cheeseburger soup. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a guaranteed hit.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
Nutrition
Total Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 685mg | Total Carbohydrate: 28g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Total Sugars: 5g | Protein: 21g | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 335mg | Iron: 2mg | Potassium: 798mg
FAQ
How do I make my soup more creamy?
- Stir in Coconut Milk. You can easily add coconut milk to your broth.
- Add Cornstarch.
- Make a Roux.
- Simmer with Rice.
- Puree Potatoes.
Can I add whipping cream to soup?
As long as it’s cooling and won’t be brought back up to heat, a less rich cream can be stirred in to finish the dish.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Sure! Macaroni or small shells can be stirred in after cooking. Just be mindful that it will soak up some of the broth.
What type of ground meat works best?
Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey or chicken works well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux or thicken the soup with cornstarch instead.