This Cheeseburger Soup is all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, cozy bowl! With ground beef, cheese, potatoes, and veggies, it’s hearty and satisfying.
It’s like your favorite burger but in soup form! I love to sprinkle some crispy bacon on top for extra flavor. Perfect for chilly days or when I just want comfort food! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient that gives the soup its heartiness. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Onion & Garlic: Together, they add a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. Shallots or leeks can replace onions if you prefer those flavors.
Potatoes: diced potatoes give the soup its comforting texture. I love using Yukon Gold for their creaminess, but Russets or even sweet potatoes make great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed since sweet potatoes soften faster.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice, bold flavor. You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different taste. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, try reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the fat.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to ace it! The key is in the ratio of flour to butter to cream. This mixture, called a roux, helps to thicken your sauce without clumping.
- Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk well for 1-2 minutes until it’s golden. This helps to cook the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Keep the heat moderate.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and add in the shredded cheese. Stir until it’s fully melted and smooth.
For extra creaminess, make sure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce!
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheeseburger Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, so in total, you’ll need about 50 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal and so comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Make sure to stir occasionally to break it up. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat to keep your soup nice and light.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, stirring them into the beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Veggies:
Next, stir in the beef broth along with the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
While the soup is simmering, let’s prepare the cheese sauce! In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for around 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden. This helps to thicken the cheese sauce.
5. Add Cream to the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. This usually takes a couple of minutes.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and forms a smooth cheese sauce.
7. Combine Everything:
Slowly pour the cheese sauce into the soup pot with the beef and veggies. Stir well until everything is fully combined and creamy.
8. Season and Heat:
Season your soup with salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it). Gently heat the soup again without bringing it to a boil.
9. Serve it Up:
Once your soup is hot and flavorful, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a lovely crunch and color.
10. Enjoy:
Serve warm and dig into this rich and creamy Cheeseburger Soup that perfectly captures the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger in a comforting bowl!
This Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful meal, packed with savory flavors, and is perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a cozy night in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well, as it can be milder in flavor compared to beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Cheeseburger Soup! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for about 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, adding a little broth or cream if needed.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For added flavor, consider stirring in some chopped pickles or a dash of hot sauce at the end. You can also mix in some crumbled bacon or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a delicious twist!
