The Ultimate Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of comforting, creamy soups with all the flavor of a classic cheeseburger, then you’re in for a treat. This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is a game-changer — it’s warm, hearty, and loaded with all the best ingredients, including ground beef, potatoes, and plenty of melty cheddar cheese. You’ll love how simple it is to make, and it’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious soup recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, with minimal prep, this soup is perfect for busy evenings.
• Comforting: Creamy and cheesy, this soup brings the ultimate comfort food vibes right to your bowl.
• Family-Friendly: Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, everyone will love this rich and flavorful soup.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste — add extra veggies, go lighter with a healthier option, or add a spicy kick!

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Optional Garnishes

• Cooked bacon bits
• Chopped green onions
• Extra shredded cheese
• Croutons

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s nice and browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Let these cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. This step adds such great flavor to your soup base!

3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, garlic powder, paprika, and broth (either chicken or beef, depending on your preference). Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender. You’ll start to smell all those savory aromas filling your kitchen!

4. Make the Roux:
While the soup is simmering, melt some butter in a separate small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden. Then, gradually add in the milk or half-and-half, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened into a roux.

5. Combine and Add Cheese:
Stir the roux into your soup, mixing well to combine. Then, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s fully melted, creating that wonderfully creamy texture. Add the cooked ground beef back into the soup and give it all a good stir.

6. Taste and Adjust:
Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. You can always add more garlic powder or paprika at this point if you like extra flavor. Once everything is perfectly seasoned, your cheeseburger soup is ready to serve!

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Tips and Tricks for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

• Make It Creamier: For an even richer soup, try using half-and-half or heavy cream instead of whole milk.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to boost the nutrition, feel free to add in extra veggies like corn, peas, or even spinach for a green touch.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the potatoes with cauliflower florets to make this soup keto-friendly without compromising on the comfort factor.
• Spicy Kick: Want a little heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty, spicy twist that takes this soup to the next level.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic, you can mix things up by using other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an exciting flavor variation.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is pretty unlikely since this soup is so good!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, or pop it in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much during storage, just add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to its creamy consistency.

Freezing:
While this soup can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly once thawed due to the dairy. If you plan on freezing, be sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

This easy cheeseburger soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with:

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Salads: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the soup.
• Crackers or Tortilla Chips: For a little crunch alongside the creamy soup.

And of course, don’t forget to top it with your favorite garnishes like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or crunchy croutons for that added texture!

Variations and Customization

One of the best things about this cheeseburger soup is how easily you can make it your own. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• For a Healthier Version: Use lean ground turkey or chicken, and opt for low-fat milk. You’ll still get that creamy goodness without as many calories.
• A Different Cheese: Try experimenting with different types of cheese to find your perfect combo. Gouda adds a smoky richness, while Swiss offers a milder, nutty flavor. If you like things spicy, pepper jack cheese will bring a delightful heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and add in some plant-based crumbles, or use extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty, meatless soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
  Yes! Any cheese that melts well will work in this recipe, such as Gouda, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar.
• What Can I Use Instead of Potatoes?
  Cauliflower florets make a great low-carb substitute, or you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
  Absolutely! Brown the ground beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker except the milk and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the milk and cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy finish.
• Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
  Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together!
• How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
  For a gluten-free version, just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or thicken the soup with cornstarch.

Conclusion

This easy cheeseburger soup is comfort food at its finest. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that brings all the best flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, cozy bowl. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this soup will surely be a hit. Try it out today and experience the joy of this ultimate comfort meal. Happy cooking!