If you crave the comforting flavors of a juicy, cheesy burger but want it in a warm, creamy bowl, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and loads of sharp cheddar cheese, this soup captures everything you love about a cheeseburger in every luscious spoonful. It’s like your favorite diner meal transformed into a cozy, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a little comforting indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is straightforward but essential for achieving its iconic taste. Each component adds a crucial layer, from the rich beefy base to the creamy cheddar that makes every bite irresistible.
- Ground beef (1 pound): provides the hearty, meaty foundation packed with flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): delivers an aromatic punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): bring comfort and substance with their fluffy texture when cooked.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced): contribute a slight sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
- Beef broth (4 cups): the savory broth that melds all the flavors together beautifully.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): the star ingredient that adds creamy richness and cheesy goodness.
- Milk or cream (1 cup): for a velvety texture and smooth finish.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): imparts a subtle tang and deepens the flavor profile.
- Mustard (1 tablespoon): gives just the right zing to brighten the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned and full of savory flavor. Drain any excess fat to keep things flavorful but not greasy. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, letting them cook until fragrant and the onions turn translucent, creating a fragrant base that hints at the soup’s deliciousness ahead.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Simmer
Next, stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. These veggies add both heartiness and a touch of natural sweetness. Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Enrich the Soup
Lower the heat carefully and stir in the milk or cream, tomato paste, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to enhance every layer of flavor. Warm the soup gently on low heat, being cautious not to let it boil to prevent any curdling. This step is what transforms the broth into a luscious, creamy soup base.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
The magic moment comes now: slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese while stirring constantly. Keep the heat low and patient, allowing the cheese to melt smoothly and evenly into the soup. This creates that indulgent, velvety texture you want in a perfect cheeseburger soup sensation.
Step 5: Final Seasoning Touches
Give the soup a taste test and adjust the seasoning as you wish. Add more salt or pepper if needed, or a little extra mustard for an added kick. Once it tastes just right, your hearty, cheesy masterpiece is ready to serve hot and enjoyed with a big smile.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your bowl with extra shredded cheddar or a handful of crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor. Fresh chives or green onions also make a great fresh burst of color and mild oniony crunch that brightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich soup with a crisp green salad or some warm, buttery bread rolls. Classic toasted buns or garlic breadsticks work wonderfully to soak up every last bit of that cheesy broth, completing a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in small bread bowls that let guests scoop up soup along with the bread. You can also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a fried egg to elevate the flavors even further. Presentation that’s both cozy and clever makes this soup feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out. It’s perfect for quick weeknight warms up when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Freezing
While you can freeze this soup, be aware the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the soup slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a lighter version of the Cheeseburger Soup Recipe, though the beef does give a richer flavor. Just brown it thoroughly and follow the recipe as usual.
How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot and stir them back in. Alternatively, reduce the broth slightly during simmering before adding the dairy and cheese.
Is this soup spicy?
This classic Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is mild and comforting, but you can spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the final seasoning stage.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Sharp cheddar is best for its bold, tangy flavor and melting quality, but feel free to experiment with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky cheese for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Slow reheating on the stove with occasional stirring is ideal to preserve the creamy texture. Microwaving is possible, but go slow and stir often to avoid breaking the cheese emulsion.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is truly a champion in the world of comfort foods, delivering all the joy of a cheeseburger in a warm bowl that hugs you from the inside out. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this cozy classic in your recipe rotation!
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Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy Cheeseburger Soup featuring browned ground beef, tender potatoes and carrots, and a sharp cheddar cheese finish. Perfect for a comforting meal that combines classic cheeseburger flavors in a warm, hearty soup.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
Flavorings & Dairy
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until nicely browned. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
- Add vegetables and broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Mix dairy and seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in milk or cream, tomato paste, mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Warm gently without boiling to avoid curdling.
- Add cheese: Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth to achieve a creamy, cheesy consistency throughout the soup.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or mustard for extra zing. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
- To avoid curdling, do not boil the soup after adding milk or cream.
- For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes after they are tender.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter option.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
