Cheeseburger soup is a warm and comforting dish packed with all the yummy flavors of a classic cheeseburger! With ground beef, cheese, and veggies swimming in creamy broth, it’s a cozy bowl of goodness.
This soup is a hit on chilly nights! I love topping it with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of green onions—just like my burger! 🍔 Plus, it’s super easy to make, so it’s perfect for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup from being too greasy, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be aware that they may cook differently.
Vegetables: Onions, celery, and carrots are classic for adding flavor and nutrition. If you’re short on time, frozen diced vegetables work well too. You can also swap in bell peppers or peas based on what you have on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts nicely, giving that cheeseburger flavor. If you’re looking for something different, try pepper jack for a bit of spice or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re vegetarian, swap it for vegetable broth for a different but still tasty base.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but you can use skim milk, almond milk, or any other alternative milk you prefer, though the texture might change slightly.
How Do You Make Sure Your Soup is Thick and Creamy?
Getting the right thickness for your cheeseburger soup can be tricky, but it’s easy with a few smart moves. The key is the flour and milk mixture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by whisking together flour and cold milk in a separate bowl until it’s smooth. This prevents lumps when added to the hot soup.
- Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering soup while stirring continuously. This also helps it to blend evenly without clumping.
- Let the soup simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken. If it’s not thick enough to your liking, you can mix more flour with a little cold water, then add it in.
Be patient, as the simmering time really makes a difference! Enjoy your creamy cheeseburger soup!
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
- Croutons for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheeseburger Soup will take about 30-40 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients and another 15-25 minutes simmering it all together. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s extra fat in the pot, carefully drain it off before moving on to the next step.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add in the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté the veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring often until they are tender and the onions become translucent. This adds great flavor to your soup!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that delicious garlic aroma filling your kitchen.
4. Combine Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Create the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. This will help thicken your soup. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps forming.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Now it’s time to add the fun part! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens up nicely. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the soup is hot and ready to go, ladle it into bowls and top with croutons if you like. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Cheeseburger Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as ground poultry typically cooks faster. You can also add a bit of extra seasoning to compensate for the milder flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can replace beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning since different broths can have varying salt levels. If you fancy a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or even some beef bouillon cubes dissolved in water.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can easily prepare this soup in advance. Just follow the recipe and allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cheeseburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when it freezes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
