If you're craving a rich, hearty, and cheesy dish that combines all the best flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, comforting bowl, this easy cheeseburger soup recipe is the perfect option. Whether you're serving it for a family meal or impressing guests, cheeseburger soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. Read on to discover how to create this delicious soup, along with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas that will elevate your dish to the next level. Let’s get started!

What is Cheeseburger Soup?
Cheeseburger soup is a creamy, savory soup that features all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger—ground beef, cheese, onions, and more—in a rich, velvety broth. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or any time you’re craving a quick meal with all the goodness of a cheeseburger but without the bun. The beauty of this dish is that it’s highly customizable, allowing you to add or substitute ingredients to suit your personal tastes.
Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients. This recipe serves about 6 people, but you can easily adjust it based on your needs.
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean to reduce excess grease)
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (russet potatoes work best)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% is ideal for a creamy texture)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (for added richness)
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of smokiness)
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for a tangy twist)
- Crumbled bacon (optional topping)
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about cheeseburger soup is its versatility. If you don't have certain ingredients or are catering to specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions and variations to consider:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you want a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the meat for plant-based ground "beef" or even mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version.
- Low-Carb Option: Instead of potatoes, use cauliflower to keep the soup lower in carbs while still maintaining a creamy, thick consistency.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as Colby Jack, Pepper Jack (for a spicier kick), or even American cheese for a more traditional cheeseburger flavor.
- Spice It Up: For those who like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup.
- Broth Choices: Chicken broth is most common, but you can also use beef broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making cheeseburger soup is simpler than you might think, and the entire process can be done in about 30 to 40 minutes. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to a separate bowl. Set it aside for later. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic. - Add Flour for Thickening
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the soup later. - Add Broth and Potatoes
Gradually stir in the chicken broth, ensuring that the flour is fully dissolved. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Incorporate the Ground Beef
Once the potatoes are cooked, return the browned ground beef to the pot, stirring well to combine. - Add Milk and Cheese
Slowly stir in the milk and shredded cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency. - Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream for added richness, and season the soup with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. - Optional: Add Sour Cream
For a tangy note, you can stir in sour cream just before serving. Make sure to mix it well for a smooth finish. - Simmer and Serve
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, remove from heat and get ready to serve!
How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
To ensure perfect results every time, here’s a quick summary of the steps:
- Brown the beef and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic with butter.
- Create a roux by adding flour.
- Add chicken broth and cook potatoes.
- Stir in ground beef, milk, and cheese.
- Add heavy cream and season.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is easy, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes to avoid them becoming mushy. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
- Not Draining the Ground Beef: If you skip draining the grease from the beef, your soup could turn out too oily.
- Curdling the Milk: When adding milk to the soup, make sure the heat is at a simmer, not a boil, to prevent curdling.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add the cheese when the soup is too hot, it might separate or become grainy. Make sure the soup is warm but not boiling when you add the cheese.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautifully presented dish can make all the difference. Here are some tips to serve your cheeseburger soup in style:
- Top with Crumbled Bacon: For added flavor and texture, sprinkle crispy crumbled bacon on top of each bowl.
- Garnish with Green Onions or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh green onions or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness to your soup.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for dipping into the cheesy broth.
- Add a Pickle Spear: For a fun, cheeseburger-inspired touch, serve your soup with a pickle spear on the side.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup
Cheeseburger soup is best served piping hot, straight from the pot. It’s a complete meal in itself, but you can serve it with side dishes like a light salad, breadsticks, or cornbread. For a heartier meal, pair it with a sandwich or wrap.
Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup
To make the soup visually appealing, consider serving it in small bread bowls for a fun twist. Alternatively, serve it in individual bowls with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions arranged in small dishes so people can customize their bowl.
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips
- Make it Ahead: Cheeseburger soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove, adding a little milk or broth if it thickens too much.
- Double the Recipe: This soup is great for feeding a crowd, so consider doubling the recipe if you're serving a large group.
- Freeze for Later: Cheeseburger soup can be frozen, though you may need to add some fresh cheese and milk when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Yes, cheeseburger soup freezes well, but note that dairy-based soups may change in texture slightly when thawed. Be sure to stir in additional milk or cream when reheating.
How do I reheat cheeseburger soup?
Reheat cheeseburger soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheese, milk, and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
This easy cheeseburger soup recipe offers all the comfort and flavor of a classic cheeseburger in a creamy, satisfying bowl. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless variations, you can enjoy this delicious soup all year round. So grab your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy a bowl of cheesy goodness today!
PrintEasy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
This easy cheeseburger soup recipe is a delicious comfort dish loaded with ground beef, potatoes, cheddar cheese, and flavorful vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and an excellent way to enjoy the taste of cheeseburgers in a warm, hearty soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Onion
- Celery
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a pot, drain excess fat, and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter.
- Add flour to make a roux, then slowly pour in chicken broth.
- Stir in potatoes and bring to a simmer until tender.
- Add cooked ground beef, milk, and cheese, stirring until melted.
- Simmer on low heat, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, add more flour when making the roux.
- You can substitute heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Add bacon bits or croutons for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
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