This easy cheeseburger soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tasty beef and veggies. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those busy weeknights!
I love how quick it comes together—just cook, stir, and enjoy! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a cozy dinner ready in no time. Who doesn’t love a soup that feels like a burger? 🍔😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is the star here. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to skip meat, try using mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic bring great flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder work in a pinch. But honestly, the fresh stuff really makes a difference in taste!
Potatoes: I prefer using russet potatoes for their creaminess. You can swap in Yukon Golds or even use frozen hash browns for quicker prep. Just remember, diced potatoes will take longer to cook if they’re not pre-cooked.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, but feel free to use mild for a softer flavor. For a twist, try mixing in some pepper jack or gouda to spice things up!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Not Lumpy?
Getting a smooth and creamy soup can be tricky! The secret lies in how you add the flour and broth. Here’s how:
- After browning the beef and veggies, sprinkle the flour and stir it in. Cook for just a minute to get rid of that raw taste. This step helps thicken your soup.
- When adding broth, do it slowly and stir continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Finally, adding the cheese at the end will melt it smoothly into your soup, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.
Take your time with these steps, and your soup will come out perfectly creamy every time!
Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for creamier soup)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy cheeseburger soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal that can be on your table in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat. This keeps your soup from being too greasy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add a lovely flavor to your soup.
3. Thicken the Soup:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the beef and veggies. Stir well to combine everything and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. This helps to eliminate the raw flour taste and thickens the soup later.
4. Add the Broth:
Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This gives your soup a nice base. Once it’s mixed well, you can move on to the veggies!
5. Bring to a Boil:
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery into the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. This simmering step is key to developing the flavors!
6. Add Creaminess:
After the vegetables are tender, stir in the milk for creaminess. Then, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and smooth. This is where your soup gets that delicious cheeseburger flavor!
7. Final Seasoning:
Give the soup a taste and season it with salt and black pepper as needed. Adjust according to your preference.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, and for a lovely touch, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of your cheeseburger soup!
This hearty soup is perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious and filling without a lot of fuss. Enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to skip meat altogether, consider using lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
How Can I Make This Soup Creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. You can also add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream at the end to enhance the richness!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it gets too thick.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheeseburger Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.