Name: The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ground beef; Potatoes; Onion; Carrots; Celery; Garlic; Cheddar cheese; Chicken broth; Heavy cream; Butter; Flour; Salt; Pepper

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If you're craving a rich, creamy, and savory dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, comforting soup, then you’re in the right place. This cheeseburger soup recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress anyone you serve it to. Read through this entire article to discover the perfect recipe, substitutions, tips, and techniques for making the best cheeseburger soup.

Let’s dive in!

What Is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger soup is a delicious and hearty dish that incorporates the essential elements of a cheeseburger — ground beef, cheese, onions, and pickles — but in soup form. The flavors are mixed with creamy broth, potatoes, and vegetables, delivering all the satisfaction of a burger without the bun. It’s a great dish for cold weather, a family gathering, or a cozy night in. Not only does it offer comforting warmth, but it's also incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

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

Core Ingredients

1 pound ground beef: The main protein of the soup. You can choose between 80% or 90% lean beef depending on your preference.
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): The cheese in cheeseburger soup is crucial, and cheddar is the best choice for its sharp flavor.
4 cups potatoes (peeled and diced): Potatoes add a hearty texture to the soup, giving it body and substance.
1 cup carrots (diced): Carrots add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef.
1 medium onion (diced): Onions are an essential aromatic, providing a mild yet essential flavor.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic enhances the overall taste and gives the soup an additional layer of complexity.
3 cups chicken or beef broth: The base liquid for the soup. Chicken broth will make it lighter, while beef broth makes it richer.
1 cup whole milk: This adds creaminess to the soup. You can substitute with heavy cream for a richer taste.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup.
2 tablespoons butter: Butter gives the soup richness and is used for sautéing the vegetables.
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is essential to bring out all the flavors in the soup.

Optional Ingredients

½ cup pickles (diced): For those who like a tangy bite reminiscent of a cheeseburger, diced pickles make an excellent addition.
2 tablespoons mustard: Adding mustard will give the soup that classic cheeseburger taste.
2 tablespoons ketchup: A small amount of ketchup adds a hint of sweetness and extra burger flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about cheeseburger soup is its versatility. You can make a variety of substitutions to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ground beef substitution: For a leaner or healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground meat alternatives.
Dairy-free version: If you need to avoid dairy, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Nutritional yeast can replace cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheesy flavor.
Gluten-free version: To make this soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Low-carb option: Instead of using potatoes, you can use cauliflower for a lower-carb version. It will still give the soup body and texture without the added carbs.
Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your cheeseburger soup. It’s an easy and straightforward recipe that will be ready in under an hour.

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it cooks evenly. Once browned, remove it from the pot, drain any excess grease, and set it aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften.
Add Flour: Stir in the flour to the sautéed vegetables, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step will help thicken the soup later.
Add Broth and Potatoes: Slowly pour in the broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the diced potatoes, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Combine the Beef and Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, add the cooked ground beef back into the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you're using mustard, ketchup, or pickles, now is the time to stir them in.
Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. If the soup seems too thick, you can add more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

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

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

This step-by-step guide will ensure you get the perfect consistency and flavor in your cheeseburger soup. From browning the beef to adding the final touches of cheese and seasoning, every step is crucial in creating the best version of this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with an easy recipe like cheeseburger soup, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:

Not draining the beef: Failing to drain excess grease from the cooked beef can make the soup too oily and heavy.
Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long can cause them to become mushy, which will affect the soup’s texture.
Not thickening the soup properly: Adding the flour too quickly or skipping this step may result in a watery soup instead of the creamy texture you’re aiming for.
Using low-quality cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting. It’s best to shred your own cheese for optimal results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present cheeseburger soup can make all the difference in creating an inviting and delicious meal.

Use shallow bowls: Serving the soup in wide, shallow bowls allows the toppings to stand out.
Add garnish: Top with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced pickles to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Serve with bread: A slice of toasted garlic bread or a side of soft dinner rolls pairs beautifully with this creamy soup.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. You can ladle it into bowls and add toppings like:

Extra cheese: Melt more cheddar on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Croutons: Add some crunch by topping the soup with homemade or store-bought croutons.
Bacon bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon on top for a smoky, salty contrast to the creamy soup.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
Mini burgers on the side: For a fun and playful presentation, serve mini sliders on the side.
Serve in bread bowls: For an indulgent treat, hollow out small round loaves of bread and use them as edible bowls.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

Make it ahead: Cheeseburger soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld beautifully, and you’ll only need to reheat it before serving.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and use airtight containers. Reheat it slowly on the stove for best results.
Double the recipe: If you’re serving a crowd or want leftovers, doubling the recipe is easy. Just be sure to use a large enough pot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is the traditional choice, you can experiment with American cheese, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda for a unique flavor.

2. How can I make the soup thinner or thicker?

To thin the soup, add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. To thicken it, let the soup simmer longer, or mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add celery, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer them to a slow cooker, add the broth and potatoes, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese and milk near the end.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger soup is the perfect comfort food, combining the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger with the warming, hearty nature of soup. With this easy-to-follow recipe, substitutions, and expert tips, you can make a dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, this cheeseburger soup will surely be a hit.

Try this recipe today and let your taste buds experience the ultimate in comfort food. Happy cooking!