If you’re craving a warm, hearty dish that wraps up all the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy bowl, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. It’s a creamy, cheesy, juicy blend that feels like a hug from your favorite diner meal but easier to whip up at home on any night. Every spoonful bursts with rich ground beef, tender potatoes, melty cheese, and those subtle savory hints from green chilies and Italian seasoning. Trust me, this soup is the kind of comfort food that makes weeknights feel special and chilly days downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this soup. Each one plays a vital role in balancing hearty flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors that make this recipe shine. Simple staples from the pantry and fridge come together effortlessly to create a dish everyone will love.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that’s essential for that famous cheeseburger flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- 4 cups beef broth: Forms the soup’s savory, flavorful liquid foundation.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Injects bright, tangy notes and a pop of color.
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained: Offers a mild heat and smoky complexity that surprises and delights.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances every ingredient’s taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and bite.
- 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes: These tender morsels soak up the creamy broth, creating a satisfying bite.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Brings subtle sweetness and a gentle crunch.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The secret ingredient that makes the soup incredibly creamy and luscious.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens and smooths out the richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show, melting into the broth and delivering that unmistakable cheeseburger charm.
- Optional toppings: cooked bacon crumbles, sour cream, green onions: Adds texture and extra layers of flavor to elevate your serving.
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure it cooks evenly. Sauté until browned all over, which will deepen the flavor, then drain any excess grease so your soup isn’t too oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion. Cook it gently until it turns soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. These steps build a flavorful foundation for the soup that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 3: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Chilies
Pour in the beef broth, along with the canned diced tomatoes and diced green chilies — both with their juices. This combination adds a wonderfully rich and zesty dimension that perfectly complements the beef and cheese.
Step 4: Season and Add Veggies
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Then stir in the cubed potatoes and shredded carrots. These veggies are not just nutritious; they add texture and body that turn the soup into a full meal.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This slow cooking melds all the flavors in every bite.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Base
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese. Use a whisk or an immersion blender to combine it completely into the soup, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
Step 7: Add Milk and Cheese
Pour in the milk and stir well, then gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts fully and the soup turns rich and cheesy. This step transforms your creation into that classic cheeseburger soup everyone raves about.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into warm bowls, then add extra shredded cheddar on top. Sprinkle with bacon crumbles, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped green onions if you like. Now you’re ready to dive into that unforgettable taste and comfort.
How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish options like crispy bacon crumbles, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions brighten up the bowl and add delightful contrasts of texture and flavors. They’re an easy way to personalize each serving and make it even more special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette, warm garlic bread, or buttery dinner rolls. These sides help soak up every last drop of that cheesy goodness while complementing the rich flavors harmoniously.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun twist or topping it with pickles or crispy fried onions to mimic the full burger experience. Adding a splash of hot sauce can also kick the cozy comfort to a new level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick reheats during the busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up and preserve that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for that cheeseburger flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for a unique twist.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a hearty blend of mushrooms and lentils, and swap beef broth for vegetable broth to keep it comforting and meat-free.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cheese and cream cheese near the end for best results.
Why is cream cheese used in this recipe?
Cream cheese brings creaminess and body to the soup without overwhelming it with heaviness, helping achieve that smooth, luscious texture that makes this soup stand out.
What can I add if I want extra veggies?
Feel free to throw in diced bell peppers, celery, or corn. Just add them along with the potatoes and carrots so they have enough time to soften in the simmer.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that blends simplicity with all the flavors we love from a classic burger. It’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or any moment when you want something cozy and satisfying. So, grab your ingredients and give this delicious soup a whirl—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and creamy cheeseburger soup that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, comforting bowl. This easy-to-make soup features ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a satisfying meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
Optional Toppings
- Cooked bacon crumbles
- Sour cream
- Green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, which enhances the soup’s aroma and flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and undrained diced green chilies. Stir in dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to season the soup base.
- Add Vegetables: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes along with the shredded carrots to the pot, distributing them evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Cream Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Add the softened cream cheese and use a whisk or immersion blender to blend until the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Milk: Pour in the milk and stir thoroughly until well combined, creating a rich and smooth texture.
- Melt Cheddar Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the soup is uniformly cheesy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with extra shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon crumbles, sour cream, and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Drain excess grease after browning the beef for a leaner soup.
- Potatoes can be substituted with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Use low-fat or whole milk depending on your preference for creaminess and calorie content.
- For a spicier kick, add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To make the soup gluten-free, ensure the beef broth and seasonings used are certified gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cheese.
