The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Looking for a soul-warming, hearty dish that brings together all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a bowl? Cheeseburger Soup is a fan favorite, combining savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and crisp bacon with the comforting elements of a traditional soup. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Read on to learn how to create the best Cheeseburger Soup, packed with wholesome ingredients and served with a rich, creamy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, creamy soup that mimics the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. It includes common burger ingredients like ground beef, cheese, and bacon, paired with vegetables and a creamy broth. The result is a bowl of soup that tastes like your favorite burger joint, only in a comforting, warming format. Whether you're cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this soup is the perfect option for lunch or dinner, especially during the cooler months.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

1. 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed – Potatoes are the main vegetable base of the soup, adding body and richness.
2. 2 carrots, peeled and grated – Adds sweetness and color to balance the richness of the meat and cheese.
3. 1 small onion, chopped – Provides flavor depth and a slightly sweet, sharp bite to the soup.
4. 1 clove garlic, minced – Enhances the savory taste of the beef and soup as a whole.
5. 1 ½ cups water – Acts as the base liquid to cook the vegetables and form the broth.
6. 1 tablespoon beef bouillon granules (about 4 cubes) – Adds an intense beef flavor, making the soup taste rich and hearty.
7. ½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
8. 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained – Provides the classic cheeseburger flavor and heartiness to the soup.
9. 2 ½ cups milk (divided use) – Used for making the creamy base and for thickening the soup with the roux.
10. 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Used to thicken the soup into a velvety, rich consistency.
11. 8 ounces Velveeta, cubed – The ultimate creamy cheese for melting and creating a smooth, cheesy soup.
12. ½ pound bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled – Adds a crunchy, salty topping that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Beef Substitution: For a leaner version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Substitution: If Velveeta isn’t available, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar cheese, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts smoothly.
• Milk Alternatives: To make the soup dairy-free, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk for a slightly tropical twist.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or peas for additional flavor and texture.
• Bacon: Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used as a substitute to keep the soup leaner while still maintaining that smoky crunch.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the potatoes or substitute them with cauliflower for a low-carb, keto-friendly version of Cheeseburger Soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients in place, it’s time to walk through the step-by-step cooking process for the best Cheeseburger Soup.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes and grating the carrots. Chop the onions and mince the garlic. Having all your vegetables prepared beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the cubed potatoes, grated carrots, chopped onion, minced garlic, and water. Add the beef bouillon granules and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the vegetables cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: While the vegetables are simmering, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
4. Make the Roux: In a separate small saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of milk and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk them together over medium heat until the mixture thickens. Be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Once thickened, remove from heat.
5. Add Ground Beef and Milk Mixture: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the browned ground beef and the thickened milk mixture into the pot. Stir well to combine everything.
6. Add Cheese: Now it’s time for the cheesy goodness. Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Crisp the Bacon: While the cheese is melting, cook your bacon in a separate skillet until crispy. Once cooked, drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
8. Final Touch: Stir the remaining 1 cup of milk into the soup to adjust the consistency. Simmer the soup on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve: Ladle the creamy, rich soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon crumbles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Roux: The flour and milk roux is essential for thickening the soup. Without it, the soup may be too thin and lack the creamy texture that makes Cheeseburger Soup so comforting.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Be mindful not to overcook the potatoes and carrots. If they get too soft, they can turn mushy and change the texture of the soup.
• Using High Heat for the Cheese: When adding the cheese, make sure to use low heat. High heat can cause the cheese to become grainy or separate, resulting in a less creamy soup.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving Cheeseburger Soup is an opportunity to get creative. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner party, presentation adds an extra layer of enjoyment to any meal.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

• Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with crusty bread or garlic toast. The bread will help to soak up the creamy broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Top with Garnishes: Top each bowl of soup with additional shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or even a drizzle of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It adds an extra layer of indulgence to your meal.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

• Rustic Bowls: Serve your soup in rustic, earthy-colored bowls for a cozy, inviting feel.
• Garnish with Extra Bacon: A little extra bacon sprinkled on top always adds a nice touch. You can also add a sprig of fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color.
• Cheese Drizzle: After ladling the soup into bowls, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly before serving.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This soup can be made a day in advance, and the flavors will only deepen as it sits. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
• Freeze for Later: If you want to freeze the soup, be sure to do so before adding the milk and cheese. Add these ingredients after thawing and reheating to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup ends up too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! You can cook the vegetables and beef in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Add the roux and cheese at the end and cook for another 30 minutes until everything is creamy and combined.

Q: Can I substitute cheddar for Velveeta?
A: Absolutely. Cheddar works well, but Velveeta provides a smoother, creamier texture. If you opt for cheddar, be sure to melt it slowly over low heat.

Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Cheeseburger Soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm and creamy soup. It’s the perfect recipe for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own variations, this Cheeseburger Soup is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Serve it with crusty bread, top it with crispy bacon, and enjoy the comforting goodness in every bite!

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