Cheeseburger Soup Recipe 🧀🍔🍲
All the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, transformed into a hearty, comforting soup! Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. This soup is creamy, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and shredded
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Creamy Base:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
Optional Garnishes:
- Crumbled cooked bacon
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it browns.
- Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, shredded carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with the chicken or beef broth.
- Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Base
- While the soup simmers, in a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. This will be used to thicken the soup.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broth thickens to a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Goodness
- Stir the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring well after each addition to ensure it melts smoothly.
- For an extra creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage (optional).
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnishing
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, parsley, or extra shredded cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup
- Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor, but feel free to mix in Colby, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for variety.
- Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot before adding the milk and cheese.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with diced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra cheeseburger-like flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. (Note: Dairy-based soups may slightly change texture after freezing.)
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cheeseburger Soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or toasted hamburger buns for a fun twist. It’s a complete meal that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing!
Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, cheesy, and hearty soup—it’s like a cheeseburger in a bowl! 🍔🍲