Cheeseburger Soup is a cozy dish that captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl! It’s packed with ground beef, cheese, and veggies, making it super tasty.
This soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something comforting. I love serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping—talk about a perfect combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds heartiness and texture. You could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Potatoes: I like using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their creaminess. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen hash browns instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup ultra-creamy. If you want to cut calories, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but the texture will be a bit less rich.
Worcestershire Sauce: This is optional, but it adds depth. You can use soy sauce in a pinch, or skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken My Cheeseburger Soup?
Thickening the soup is key for that creamy consistency. The roux method, which combines flour and butter, is a classic technique. Follow these simple steps for success:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flavor.
- Gradually pour in the milk and cream while whisking to keep it smooth.
- Once thickened, slowly add this mixture to the soup pot, stirring constantly.
- This ensures your soup is creamy without lumps!
By following these tips, you’ll have a delightful Cheeseburger Soup that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty cheeseburger soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, with a total time of around 45 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into small, crumby pieces. If there’s any excess fat, make sure to drain it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic directly to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and turns translucent.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors mingle.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the beef broth. Pour it in, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook until all the veggies are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
5. Make the Roux:
While the soup is cooking, take a separate small saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickens up a bit.
6. Combine the Mixtures:
Slowly pour your creamy roux into the pot with the soup, stirring continuously to ensure everything combines evenly and becomes nice and creamy.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it fully melts and the soup becomes rich and cheesy.
8. Season to Taste:
Season your soup with salt, pepper, and the Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it). Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.
9. Final Simmer:
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything well mixed.
10. Serve It Up!
When ready, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheese and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious cheeseburger soup hot, with some crusty bread or crackers on the side!
This cheesy, comforting soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your tummy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor, so season it well.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. The soup may not be as rich, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.