If you’re craving a comforting bowl of warmth that tastes just like your favorite burger on a chilly day, then this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, crisp carrots, and loaded with irresistible sharp cheddar cheese, this soup brings all the juicy, cheesy goodness of a classic cheeseburger into spoonfuls of creamy heaven. It’s simple to make but absolutely satisfying, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in delivering that iconic cheeseburger flavor while creating a rich, creamy texture that will have you coming back for seconds. From the hearty ground beef to the cheesy sharpness of cheddar, each element balances the dish perfectly.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory foundation and meaty richness essential for authentic cheeseburger taste.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a warm, aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Bring a creamy, hearty texture that makes each bite comforting and filling.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Add natural sweetness and a pop of color for visual and flavor contrast.
- 4 cups beef broth: Creates the savory liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show, melting in perfectly for that luscious cheeseburger creaminess.
- 1 cup milk or cream: Balances the soup with smoothness and richness without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Introduces subtle tanginess reminiscent of ketchup’s classic zing.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a little kick and depth, mimicking that familiar cheeseburger bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the delicious flavors.
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the beef and soften aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until beautifully browned to develop deep, savory flavor; this is what makes your soup feel like a real burger in a bowl. Drain the excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic right into the pot. Sauté together until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its irresistible fragrance.
Step 2: Add the potatoes, carrots, and broth
Next, toss in the diced potatoes and carrots, which bring heartiness and natural sweetness respectively. Pour in the beef broth, then bring everything to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes and carrots to soften perfectly, melding their flavors with the savory broth and beef.
Step 3: Stir in dairy, tomato paste, and seasonings
Lower the heat to prevent boiling and carefully stir in the milk or cream, along with the tomato paste and mustard. These ingredients layer in the rich creaminess and that classic cheeseburger tang. Season with salt and pepper at this stage, adjusting to your personal taste. Keep the soup warm and avoid boiling to prevent the dairy from curdling.
Step 4: Melt in the cheddar cheese
Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese in batches, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and becomes silky smooth. This step transforms the soup into an irresistibly creamy masterpiece, packed with that signature cheeseburger cheesy goodness you crave in every spoonful.
Step 5: Final seasoning adjustments and serving
Give your soup a final taste and adjust salt, pepper, or mustard as desired to brighten and balance the flavors perfectly. Now your comforting, cheesy creation is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed immediately!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, freshly chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits takes this soup to the next level and adds delightful texture contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a scattering of crushed crackers can also brighten up every rich, creamy bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty soup with a fresh green salad dressed lightly or some warm crusty bread to mop up every last drop. Classic choices like garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls work beautifully and make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a festive twist. You can also top with fun burger-inspired extras like pickle slices or diced tomatoes to capture that cheeseburger vibe in a unique and playful way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and avoid any fridge odors sneaking in. When chilled, the soup thickens, so a little stirring and thinning with extra broth or milk before reheating helps restore its perfect consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Cheeseburger Soup Recipe, but keep in mind that dairy-based soups sometimes change texture after thawing. Freeze it in portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
To get that creamy smoothness back when reheating, warm the soup slowly over medium-low heat and stir frequently. Adding a splash of milk or broth as it heats helps maintain the ideal creamy texture and prevents curdling. Avoid boiling to keep those delicious cheese flavors silky.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or simply add extra vegetables like mushrooms and beans for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth, and it’ll still taste fantastic.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal because of its bold flavor and excellent melting quality. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack or a mild cheddar blend depending on your preference.
Is it okay to use half-and-half instead of milk or cream?
Absolutely! Half-and-half adds richness without being too heavy, making it a great option to keep the soup creamy yet lighter on the palate.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers can be delicious additions that add pops of color and nutrition while complementing the overall flavor perfectly.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup is best when creamy and slightly thick but still spoonable. If it gets too thick after chilling, simply stir in a bit more milk or broth to loosen it back up before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with all those classic burger flavors you love, made even better because it’s a cozy soup. Give it a try on your next chilly evening—you might just find your new favorite go-to comfort food.
Print
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy cheeseburger soup made with browned ground beef, tender potatoes and carrots, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef and sauté aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until nicely browned. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add dairy and flavorings carefully: Lower the heat and stir in milk or cream, tomato paste, mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Warm gently without boiling to avoid curdling.
- Incorporate the cheese: Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth to achieve a creamy, cheesy consistency throughout the soup.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or mustard for extra zing. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
- To avoid curdling, warm milk or cream gently and do not boil once added.
- You can substitute cream with whole milk for a lighter version.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes while cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
