Name: Creamy Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Potatoes; Onion; Garlic; Chicken or vegetable broth; Heavy cream; Butter; Salt; Pepper; Fresh parsley (optional)

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Cheeseburger soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm and creamy soup form. If you're a fan of cheeseburgers and love soup, this is a must-try recipe. With rich, cheesy goodness, ground beef, and vegetables, this soup is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make the best cheeseburger soup with step-by-step instructions, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for the perfect presentation. Keep reading to master this comfort food classic!

What Is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger soup is a thick and creamy soup that’s packed with all the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger. It typically contains ground beef, cheddar cheese, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and seasonings, all simmered in a creamy broth. It’s like having a cheeseburger in every spoonful, but with the added warmth and comfort of a soup. Some versions include bacon or pickles, just like you’d find on a cheeseburger.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

To make the best cheeseburger soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – Ground beef is the base of the soup, giving it that classic cheeseburger flavor.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps cook the vegetables.
1 small onion, diced – Onions add sweetness and depth to the soup.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor profile with a savory kick.
2 medium carrots, diced – Carrots add a subtle sweetness and color to the soup.
2 stalks celery, diced – Celery adds crunch and balances the richness.
3 cups potatoes, diced – Potatoes make the soup hearty and filling.
3 cups chicken or beef broth – The base liquid that brings all the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – This adds a tangy umami flavor that’s often found in burger recipes.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – A key ingredient for that cheesy goodness.
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half – Adds creaminess to the soup.
2 tablespoons flour – Used to thicken the soup.
Optional toppings: bacon bits, pickles, or croutons – Adds a nice crunch or tang to the final dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about cheeseburger soup is how flexible it can be. You can easily substitute ingredients or add variations to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a leaner version.
Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken or beef broth if you want a vegetarian option (just use plant-based ground meat).
Low-fat cheese or reduced-fat milk can make the soup lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.
Add bacon for extra smokiness or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup.
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking cheeseburger soup is straightforward and takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to do it:

Cook the ground beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
Add the potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Thicken the soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and a bit of broth from the pot to form a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture back into the soup to thicken it.
Make it creamy: Add the milk (or half-and-half) and Worcestershire sauce to the soup. Stir well to combine, then let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Add the cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts and blends smoothly into the soup.
Reintroduce the beef: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, stirring to incorporate all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
Taste and season: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If desired, adjust the flavor by adding more Worcestershire sauce or cheese.
Serve: Ladle the hot cheeseburger soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, or croutons.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

To recap, here’s a quick, simplified version of how to cook cheeseburger soup:

Brown ground beef, drain, and set aside.
Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter.
Add potatoes and broth, simmer until potatoes are tender.
Thicken soup with flour slurry.
Stir in milk and Worcestershire sauce, then add cheese.
Return beef to the soup and simmer.
Adjust seasoning and serve with desired toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though cheeseburger soup is relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overcooking the potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy. Check them frequently and remove the soup from heat once they are tender.
Curdling the cheese or milk: Make sure to add the cheese and milk gradually over low heat to avoid curdling. Adding dairy over high heat can cause the soup to become grainy.
Not draining the beef: Failing to drain the excess fat from the beef can result in a greasy soup. Drain the fat after browning the meat to keep the soup’s texture creamy and smooth.
Undercooking the vegetables: Sauté the vegetables until they’re soft but not mushy. This ensures they add texture and flavor to the soup.
Not seasoning enough: Cheese can be salty, but don’t forget to taste the soup before serving to ensure it's seasoned well with salt and pepper.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key, especially if you're serving cheeseburger soup to guests. Here are a few tips to make it look as good as it tastes:

Garnish with a drizzle of melted cheese for that extra cheesy look.
Add bacon bits or a few slices of pickles on top for a fun visual.
Serve the soup in bread bowls to add a rustic touch.
Pair the soup with toasted garlic bread or burger buns for dipping.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is best served hot, right after it’s made. You can ladle it into bowls and top with crispy bacon, pickles, or croutons for added texture. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives also adds a pop of color and freshness. For an extra indulgent touch, serve the soup with a side of fries or toasted buns to mimic the full cheeseburger experience!

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

Here are some creative presentation ideas for your cheeseburger soup:

Serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and unique presentation.
Use mason jars for a trendy and casual serving style, perfect for parties.
Top the soup with a small slider bun for an added burger vibe.
Garnish with mini burger skewers made of pickles and cherry tomatoes for a playful touch.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

Prep all your ingredients ahead of time to make cooking easier and more efficient.
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother, creamier consistency.
If you’re short on time, use frozen diced potatoes to cut down on prep time.
For a thicker soup, increase the amount of flour or add extra cheese.
Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?

Yes, you can freeze cheeseburger soup. However, soups with dairy can sometimes separate when frozen. To prevent this, consider leaving out the milk and cheese before freezing, then add them in when reheating.

Can I make cheeseburger soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese and milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What should I serve with cheeseburger soup?

Cheeseburger soup pairs well with garlic bread, crackers, or a side salad. You could also serve it with French fries or burger buns for a fun, burger-inspired meal.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger soup is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. Whether you're craving the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy soup form or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Follow the step-by-step instructions, experiment with variations, and don’t forget to top it with your favorite burger toppings for that perfect finishing touch. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy a bowl of the best cheeseburger soup today!