The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Are you a fan of cheeseburgers but looking for a warm, comforting twist? Then this Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect dish for you! Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and loads of melted cheddar cheese, this soup delivers all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a creamy, hearty bowl. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a great option for any meal—whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping, or hosting a cozy gathering. Stay with us for the full recipe and tips to make the best cheeseburger soup!

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What is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger Soup is a rich and creamy soup that captures the essence of a cheeseburger—savory beef, creamy cheese, and all the classic burger fixings like potatoes, onions, and pickles—in a warm, comforting bowl. Imagine biting into a delicious cheeseburger, but instead of a bun, you get to enjoy it as a thick, creamy, spoonable soup. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something indulgent. Whether served with a side of crusty bread or topped with crispy bacon, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot.

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Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

To make this delicious Cheeseburger Soup, gather the following ingredients:

1. Ground Beef – 1 pound of lean ground beef (80% lean or higher).
2. Potatoes – 3 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed.
3. Carrots – 2 large carrots, diced.
4. Celery – 2 stalks of celery, diced.
5. Onion – 1 medium onion, diced.
6. Garlic – 3 cloves garlic, minced.
7. Butter – 3 tablespoons for sautéing and making the roux.
8. All-purpose Flour – ¼ cup for thickening the soup.
9. Chicken or Beef Broth – 4 cups of low-sodium broth.
10. Whole Milk – 2 cups for creaminess.
11. Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
12. Cream Cheese – 4 oz, for extra creaminess.
13. Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon for added depth of flavor.
14. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
15. Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
16. Bacon (optional) – 4 slices, cooked and crumbled, for topping.
17. Dill Pickles (optional) – Chopped, for a tangy garnish.
18. Chives or Green Onions – For garnish.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Cheeseburger Soup recipe is adaptable and can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences or taste. Here are some substitutions and variations you might enjoy:

• For a lower-carb version: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce the carbs while keeping the texture intact.
• Make it lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version of the soup. You can also swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
• Vegetarian option: Use vegetarian ground beef and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Extra cheesy: Feel free to mix in other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda for an extra cheesy flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: You can add more vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to increase the nutritional value of the soup.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheeseburger Soup

Follow these easy instructions to make this flavorful Cheeseburger Soup:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and shred the cheese if you haven't already. Set everything aside so it's ready when you need it.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables have softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the cubed potatoes, chicken or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine Everything: Slowly stir the roux into the soup, mixing well to thicken the broth. Add the browned ground beef back into the pot, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup is creamy.
7. Simmer: Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow all the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, extra cheddar cheese, chopped dill pickles, and a sprinkle of chives or green onions.

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

1. Prep and dice your vegetables.
2. Brown the ground beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables until soft.
4. Add potatoes, broth, and seasonings, and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
5. Make the roux and add it to the soup to thicken.
6. Stir in the cheeses and ground beef.
7. Simmer until everything is creamy and well-blended.
8. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheeseburger Soup

1. Not draining the beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the ground beef to prevent your soup from becoming greasy.
2. Skipping the roux: The roux (flour and butter mixture) is crucial for thickening the soup. Don’t skip this step, or your soup may end up too watery.
3. Overcooking the vegetables: Keep an eye on the potatoes and carrots while they simmer. Overcooking them can cause them to become mushy, affecting the texture of the soup.
4. Not stirring in the cheese gradually: When adding the cheese, do it gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumps from forming and to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup.
5. Not tasting as you go: Always taste your soup before serving to ensure the seasoning is just right. You can always add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips for Cheeseburger Soup

Presentation is key to making this indulgent Cheeseburger Soup even more enticing. Here are a few tips for serving:

• Top with Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy soup.
• Add Dill Pickles: For an authentic cheeseburger flavor, chop up some dill pickles and sprinkle them on top for a tangy bite.
• Cheese Galore: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving to make the soup even more decadent.
• Serve with Bread: A slice of garlic bread, toast, or a bread bowl is a great side for dipping into the creamy soup.

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How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Serve Cheeseburger Soup piping hot with all your favorite toppings like bacon, extra cheese, and pickles. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. If you’re serving a crowd, set up a topping bar with different garnishes like jalapeños, crispy onions, and sour cream, so everyone can customize their bowl.

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Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

1. Rustic Bread Bowls: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.
2. Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar on top right before serving, allowing it to melt into the soup.
3. Herb Garnish: Add a touch of green with fresh chives, green onions, or parsley for a bright contrast to the creamy soup.
4. Crispy Topping: Crumble bacon or fried onions on top for a crunchy texture.

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Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thickening Tip: If your soup is too thin, you can make another roux (flour and butter mixture) or add instant mashed potato flakes to thicken it up quickly.
• Cheese Melting Tip: When adding cheese, make sure to turn off the heat or keep it on low to prevent the cheese from separating and curdling.
• Customize the Seasoning: Worcestershire sauce and paprika add depth to the flavor, but feel free to experiment with other spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat.

2. What type of cheese is best for this soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese works best for this soup because it melts well and provides a strong, rich flavor. You can also mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.

3. How do I make this soup thicker?
If your soup isn’t thick enough, you can add an additional roux (butter and flour mixture), or stir in instant mashed potato flakes to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply brown the ground beef, then add it along with the vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the roux and cheese at the end, allowing it to melt into the soup before serving.

5. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes! If you're in a pinch, pre-cooked bacon works well. Just crumble it on top of the soup before serving for that crispy, smoky flavor.

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Conclusion

This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe brings all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger into a creamy, satisfying bowl of soup. Packed with savory beef, tender vegetables, and lots of cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this soup is sure to please everyone. Customize it to your liking, top it with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy the delicious taste of a cheeseburger in soup form! Happy cooking!

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