Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory taste of a classic cheeseburger with the cozy warmth of a creamy soup. Loaded with ground beef, tender potatoes, and ooey-gooey Velveeta, this hearty dish is like a burger in every spoonful.
Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or even casual gatherings, this soup is a versatile crowd-pleaser. Add your favorite toppings like crispy onion rings or crumbled bacon for an extra burst of flavor. Easy to make and hard to resist, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.
Full Recipe:
- 1⁄2 pound ground beef
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3⁄4 cup carrots, diced
- 3⁄4 cup celery, diced
- 3⁄4 cup onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 to 2 cups Velveeta, cubed
- 1 1⁄2 cups whole milk
- 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄4 cup sour cream
- Optional toppings: onion rings, green onions, and crumbled bacon
Directions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until no longer pink. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the carrots, celery, onions, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir and sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the potatoes, cooked ground beef, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- In a separate small pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour and stir continuously for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture bubbles. Stir the roux into the soup and bring it to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Velveeta, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.
- Top with optional toppings like onion rings, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Cheeseburger Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite
Cheeseburger soup is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods—cheeseburgers and soup. It captures the essence of a juicy burger with all the trimmings and transforms it into a warm, hearty bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to cozy up on a chilly night, impress your family with a delicious homemade dinner, or prepare a satisfying dish for a potluck, cheeseburger soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to delight.
The Charm of Cheeseburger Soup
The magic of cheeseburger soup lies in its ability to combine familiar flavors with a comforting format. Picture all the best parts of a cheeseburger—savory beef, gooey melted cheese, a touch of tang from sour cream, and a medley of fresh veggies—all mingling together in a creamy broth. It’s not just a meal; it’s a sensory experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and warms you from the inside out.
This dish appeals to all ages, making it ideal for family dinners. Even picky eaters who might shy away from certain vegetables will be tempted to dive into a bowl of this rich, cheesy goodness. It’s a creative way to sneak in some nutrition while still serving up a dish that feels indulgent.
What Makes Cheeseburger Soup Special?
Unlike many traditional soups, cheeseburger soup doesn’t fall into the category of light or brothy. Instead, it’s a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish that leaves you feeling satisfied. The richness comes from its creamy base, often made with whole milk, butter, and a generous helping of Velveeta or cheddar cheese. This gives the soup its signature velvety texture and deep, cheesy flavor.
The addition of ground beef brings the authentic taste of a cheeseburger, while potatoes add a comforting, starchy element. Meanwhile, classic burger seasonings like dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite reminiscent of a well-seasoned patty.
To top it all off, optional garnishes such as crispy onion rings, crumbled bacon, or chopped green onions add texture and visual appeal. These toppings also allow for personalization, letting each diner tailor their bowl to their tastes.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest advantages of cheeseburger soup is its versatility. While the basic recipe delivers a classic burger-inspired flavor, there’s plenty of room to get creative. Here are some ideas to suit different dietary preferences and taste buds:
- Low-Carb Option: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Use shredded cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
- Protein Alternatives: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a leaner or vegetarian-friendly option.
- Broth Choices: Experiment with beef or vegetable broth for a deeper or lighter base flavor.
- Toppings Galore: From dill pickles and jalapeños to shredded lettuce or even hot sauce, the topping possibilities are endless.
By tweaking the recipe to your liking, you can transform cheeseburger soup into a dish that suits any occasion or dietary need.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
Making cheeseburger soup is straightforward, but a few tips can elevate your results from good to great:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture.
- Prep Ingredients Evenly: Cutting vegetables into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and a balanced bite every time.
- Prevent Curdling: When adding sour cream or milk, reduce the heat to low or remove the pot from the stove to prevent curdling.
- Use Quality Cheese: High-quality cheese enhances the soup’s flavor and meltability. If using cheddar, shred it yourself for the best results.
- Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The right amount of salt and pepper can make all the difference.
A One-Pot Wonder for Busy Days
Life can get hectic, and meal prep often takes a backseat when schedules are packed. Cheeseburger soup comes to the rescue as a one-pot wonder that minimizes both effort and cleanup. With everything cooked in a single pot, this dish simplifies your kitchen routine while delivering maximum flavor. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
If you’re serving a larger crowd, doubling the recipe is easy and economical. And if there are leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge or freezer for future meals, making cheeseburger soup as practical as it is delicious.
Pairing Suggestions
Cheeseburger soup is a star on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level. Here are some suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Pickles: Serve with a side of dill pickles for a true cheeseburger experience.
- French Fries: For a whimsical touch, pair the soup with a small side of crispy fries.
Why Cheeseburger Soup Deserves a Place on Your Table
Cheeseburger soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort food in its finest form. Its rich, hearty nature makes it a perfect choice for fall and winter meals, but its crowd-pleasing flavors ensure it’s welcome year-round. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish offers a delicious way to bring people together.
Its simplicity, adaptability, and universal appeal make it a staple worth adding to your culinary repertoire. Plus, the joy of combining a classic burger with the cozy format of soup is an experience you’ll want to repeat.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger soup is a comforting and versatile dish that transforms the iconic flavors of a cheeseburger into a spoonable, satisfying meal. Its creamy base, hearty ingredients, and customizable toppings make it a hit for any occasion. From weeknight dinners to special gatherings, this recipe is guaranteed to please.
Whether you’re craving something familiar or looking to try a creative twist on classic comfort food, cheeseburger soup is a delicious choice. Make a pot today and savor the warmth and joy it brings to your table.