The Best Homemade Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Introduction

This cheeseburger soup recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, transforming all the delicious flavors of your favorite burger into a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying soup. Packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and an abundance of melty cheese, it’s a hearty meal the whole family will adore. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting dish quickly. Get ready to dive into the ultimate cheesy, satisfying experience with this simple, step-by-step guide.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

You are going to absolutely adore this homemade cheeseburger soup recipe! It effortlessly brings together everything wonderful about a classic burger in a delicious, spoon-ready format. This soup provides a complete, incredibly satisfying meal, and it’s destined to become a consistent family favorite for good reason.

• Irresistibly Creamy & Cheesy: Indulge in a rich, velvety broth bursting with delicious, comforting cheese flavor in every bite.
• Hearty and Wholesome: It’s loaded with flavorful ground beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, and nutritious vegetables, providing a truly fulfilling and balanced meal.
• Simple to Make: Even kitchen novices can confidently master this recipe with minimal fuss and straightforward steps.
• Kid-Approved: The familiar and comforting flavors make it an instant hit with even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s absolutely perfect for warming you up on a chilly evening, offering deep, cozy satisfaction.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Gather these simple, fresh ingredients to create your cozy bowl of the best homemade cheeseburger soup recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean is ideal for flavor)
• ¾ cup onion, chopped (yellow or white onion works well)
• ¾ cup carrots, shredded (adds sweetness and color)
• ¾ cup celery, diced (essential aromatic for depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best)
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided (unsalted preferred)
• 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium beef broth also works)
• 4 cups peeled potatoes, diced (about 1¾ pounds, Russet or Yukon Gold)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces pepper jack Velveeta, cut into cubes (for ultimate creaminess)
• 1½ cups milk (whole or 2% for richness)
• ¾ teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always better)
• ¼ cup sour cream (full-fat for the best texture)

Notes & Substitutions

For achieving juicy, flavorful results in many recipes, an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio in ground beef is often recommended.

• Ground Beef: You can easily swap ground turkey or even mild Italian sausage if you prefer a different flavor profile, or want to lighten it up.
• Cheese: While Velveeta creates that signature creamy texture, feel free to use sharp cheddar, American cheese, or a combination. Adding a little cream cheese (2-4 oz) truly enhances the overall richness and luxurious mouthfeel.
• Vegetables: Enhance your soup by adding frozen corn, diced bell peppers (red or green), or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Broth: Beef broth adds a deeper, more traditional flavor often associated with burgers, but chicken broth works perfectly too and keeps the flavor a bit lighter.
• Dairy-Free: To make this soup dairy-free, substitute with your favorite plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Ensure you also use a dairy-free sour cream substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch (mixed with a little cold water) for thickening the soup effectively.

Equipment

You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools to make this incredibly delicious cheeseburger soup recipe with ease.

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Essential for browning the beef and simmering the entire soup in one versatile vessel.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For safely and efficiently preparing all your fresh vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts, guaranteeing perfect results every time.
• Whisk and wooden spoon: Crucial for stirring, browning, and creating a smooth, lump-free roux.

How to Make This Delicious Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Making this hearty cheeseburger soup recipe is straightforward and fun! Follow these step-by-step directions for a perfect result every time.

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Dice potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, shred the carrots, and dice the celery. Mince your garlic cloves and ensure all other ingredients are measured and ready for smooth cooking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large 3-quart saucepan or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat thoroughly and set the cooked beef aside. For an in‑depth look at how proper browning boosts flavor, this overview of the Maillard reaction in cooked meat explains why searing ground beef until deeply golden makes soups and stews taste richer.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, and dried parsley flakes. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until they become tender.
4. Add Garlic: Press the minced garlic directly into the pot with the tender vegetables. Cook and stir for just about 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
5. Simmer the Soup Base: Pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth. Add the diced potatoes and the browned ground beef back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. This step is crucial for the flavor foundation of your cheeseburger soup recipe.
6. Prepare the Roux: While the soup simmers, prepare your roux in a separate small skillet. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and forms a thick paste, creating your soup’s thickening agent.
7. Thicken the Soup: Slowly add the hot roux into the simmering soup, whisking constantly and vigorously to prevent any lumps. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil, then cook and stir for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the cheeseburger soup begin to thicken beautifully.
8. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed pepper jack Velveeta, 1½ cups of milk, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to the soup. Stir continuously until the cheese completely melts and incorporates into the creamy broth. Avoid bringing the soup to a hard boil after adding the cheese to prevent it from separating.
9. Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the soup from the heat. Stir in the ¼ cup of sour cream until it’s fully blended and creates an extra layer of creaminess and a delightful slight tang.
10. Serve Warm: Ladle the hot cheeseburger soup into bowls immediately. Garnish generously with your favorite toppings and enjoy this incredibly comforting meal!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Master your cheeseburger soup recipe with these expert tips and common fixes to ensure a perfect batch every time.

• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Sauté vegetables until just tender. They will continue cooking in the broth, ensuring they aren’t mushy.
• Lump-Free Roux: Whisk vigorously when making your roux and when adding it to the soup to ensure a perfectly smooth consistency.
• Gentle Cheese Melt: Never bring your soup to a rolling boil after adding the cheese and milk. High heat can cause the cheese to separate and become gritty.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
• Adjusting Thickness: For a thicker soup, make a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water) and stir it in slowly. To thin, simply add more broth or milk.
• Batch Cooking: This soup freezes really well! Prepare a double batch for easy future meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations

This hearty cheeseburger soup is delicious on its own, but incorporating fun toppings makes it even more special!

Serving Suggestions

• Crunchy Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon is always a delicious and highly recommended topping.
• Pickle Perfection: Diced dill pickles add a surprising tangy crunch that complements the burger flavors perfectly.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped green onions or fresh parsley brighten every single bite.
• Extra Cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese never hurts!

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you plan to batch-cook and freeze this recipe, this guide on how to freeze soup, including cream-based soups, shares best practices for cooling, packaging, and reheating to keep the texture smooth.

Reheating

Gently reheat soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk or broth if it becomes too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a zesty twist.
• Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and use plant-based ground crumbles along with vegetable broth.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace the diced potatoes with cauliflower florets to significantly reduce the carb count.
• Smoky Flavor: A teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke will add wonderful depth.

Nutrition Information

This homemade cheeseburger soup recipe provides a satisfying meal, rich in flavor and essential nutrients. It delivers a good source of protein and wholesome fats, making it very filling and great for fueling your day. Remember, nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and any substitutions you make. You can easily adjust elements like using leaner ground beef or different cheese choices to fit your specific dietary needs and preferences.

Per Serving (approximate)

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this cheeseburger soup recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Velveeta provides ultimate creaminess, you can easily use sharp cheddar, American, or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses. Experiment for unique flavors.

Q: How can I adjust the thickness of my soup?
A: To thicken, create a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water) and stir it into the simmering soup. To thin, simply add a splash more milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can cheeseburger soup be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best results.

Q: Is it possible to freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 2-3 months.

Q: What are the best toppings for this soup?
A: Crumbled bacon, diced dill pickles, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese are all popular choices. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Conclusion

This homemade cheeseburger soup recipe truly delivers on comfort and incredible flavor. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that brings warmth and happiness to any dinner table, perfect for busy parents and beginner cooks alike. We sincerely hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of this creamy, hearty goodness soon in your own kitchen. Try it out, share your experience in the comments below, and let us know what you think!

This hearty, creamy cheeseburger soup transforms all your favorite burger flavors into a comforting bowl of goodness. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and melty cheese, it’s an easy family favorite perfect for chilly nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 3/4 cup onion, chopped
• 3/4 cup carrots, shredded
• 3/4 cup celery, diced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cups chicken broth (or low-sodium beef broth)
• 4 cups peeled potatoes, diced (about 1¾ lbs)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 12 oz pepper jack Velveeta, cubed
• 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 3/4 tsp salt (kosher or sea salt)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)

Equipment

• Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot
• cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk For making smooth roux
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Dice potatoes, chop onion, shred carrots, dice celery, and mince garlic. Measure all ingredients and set aside.
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain fat and set beef aside.
3. In the same pot, melt 1 Tbsp of butter. Add onion, carrots, celery, basil, and parsley. Sauté for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
5. Pour in chicken broth. Add potatoes and browned beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining 3 Tbsp butter. Whisk in flour to make a roux. Stir continuously for 3–5 minutes until thick and bubbly.
7. Slowly add roux to the simmering soup, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring soup to a gentle boil and stir for 2 minutes to thicken.
8. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cubed Velveeta, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until cheese is melted and soup is creamy. Do not boil.
9. Remove soup from heat. Stir in sour cream until fully blended for added richness.
10. Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with bacon, pickles, green onions, or extra cheese as desired.

Notes

Swap ground beef with turkey or Italian sausage for a flavor twist. Velveeta melts smoothly, but sharp cheddar or American cheese work great too. To make gluten-free, use a GF flour blend or cornstarch slurry. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and milk. Garnish with bacon, pickles, or shredded cheese for burger-inspired toppings.

Emily Thompson

Emily Thompson is a home cook and food enthusiast who believes that great meals bring families together. She loves exploring creative twists on classic American comfort food, always testing new ideas in her kitchen. Emily is passionate about sharing simple, practical recipes and time-saving tips to help busy people enjoy cooking at home. Her approachable style makes every dish accessible, delicious, and perfect for those seeking inspiration for everyday meals and special occasions. Find Emily’s latest creations and kitchen wisdom on yumeasymeals.com.