Name: Irresistible Cheeseburger Soup: Comfort Food Bliss in a Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Try plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots work well as a substitute.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best, but garlic powder can be a quick fix.); 4 cups Beef Broth (Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian.); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (Fire-roasted enhances the smoky flavor.); 1 can Diced Green Chilies (Leave them out for a gentle taste.); 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning (A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme can be used instead.); to taste Salt (Adjust to your liking.); to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to your liking.); 2 cups Cubed Potatoes (Sweet potatoes can add a unique sweetness.); 1 cup Shredded Carrots (Can be swapped with diced celery for crunch.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Sour cream or Greek yogurt can also be used for a tangy flavor.); 1 cup Milk (Any milk variety will work.); 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Sharp cheddar or a cheese blend are fantastic options.); 1/2 cup Cooked Bacon Crumbles (Fantastic for those who love smoky flavors.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Feel free to omit for a lighter version.); 1/4 cup Green Onions (Customize with any preferred toppings!)

As I stirred the bubbling pot, the savory aroma of my Easy Cheeseburger Soup filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy diner on a rainy day. This recipe melds the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a creamy, comforting bowl that’s not only easy to make but also fully customizable. The best part? You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheddar, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you prefer a vegan twist or love to load up on toppings, this dish can adapt to your cravings effortlessly. Ready to dive into a bowl of nostalgia?

Why is Cheeseburger Soup So Beloved?

Comforting, creamy goodness: This Easy Cheeseburger Soup wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavors—just like your favorite diner meal, but in soup form!

Easily customizable: With options to swap ingredients or add toppings, it caters to everyone’s taste, whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian.

Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal without the fuss.

Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering; your friends and family will rave about this deliciously nostalgic dish. For more delightful variations, check out my Italian Meatball Soup or Black Bean Soup for some inspiration!

Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients

• For those cozy bowls.

For the Base

Ground Beef – Provides hearty protein; try plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots work well as a substitute.
Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be a quick fix.
Beef Broth – Forms a rich base for your cheeseburger soup; vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian.
Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture; fire-roasted enhances the smoky flavor.
Diced Green Chilies – Offers a mild kick; leave them out for a gentle taste.
Dried Italian Seasoning – Brings herbal notes; a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme can be used instead.
Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust to your liking.

For the Hearty Touch

Cubed Potatoes – Contributes texture and heartiness; sweet potatoes can add a unique sweetness.
Shredded Carrots – Adds color and a hint of sweetness; can be swapped with diced celery for crunch.

For Creaminess

Cream Cheese – Creates that luscious, smooth texture; sour cream or Greek yogurt can also be used for a tangy flavor.
Milk – Thin the soup as needed; any milk variety will work.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the soup for creamy goodness; sharp cheddar or a cheese blend are fantastic options.

For Topping Options

Cooked Bacon Crumbles – Adds a salty crunch; fantastic for those who love smoky flavors.
Sour Cream – A cooling contrast to the heat of the soup; feel free to omit for a lighter version.
Green Onions – Brings freshness and color; customize with any preferred toppings!

Dive into this cheeseburger soup adventure—it’s the cozy comfort food you crave!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, leaving the savory flavors behind as the base for your Easy Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped yellow onion to the pot, stirring it into the beef. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. This step allows the onions to release their sweetness, enhancing the flavor of your soup. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, followed by the green chilies if using. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful base for your Easy Cheeseburger Soup. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which helps meld the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the pot, stirring until well incorporated. This step is vital for enhancing the overall taste of the soup, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Allow the soup to simmer for a few minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 5: Add Hearty Veggies
Incorporate the cubed potatoes and shredded carrots into the pot, stirring gently to combine. These veggies will add heartiness and texture to your Easy Cheeseburger Soup. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Cream It Up
Remove the pot from heat and whisk in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture that makes this soup extra comforting. Take care to break up any lumps of cream cheese for a perfectly velvety soup.

Step 7: Finish with Milk and Cheese
Pour in the milk and stir until well combined, adjusting the consistency to your preference. Next, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. This final touch brings that quintessential cheeseburger flavor to your soup, making it irresistibly delicious.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, and feel free to top with cooked bacon crumbles, extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and green onions for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Your Easy Cheeseburger Soup is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful!

Storage Tips for Cheeseburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup is completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm your cheeseburger soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

Thickening Note: Remember that the soup may thicken when chilled or frozen, so adjust the consistency with a little more broth or milk when reheating.

Cheeseburger Soup Variations

Feel free to explore and make this cheeseburger soup your own; simple swaps and enhancements can elevate every bowl!

Vegetarian: Use plant-based crumbles or lentils in place of ground beef for a delicious vegetarian option.
Extra Veggies: Add diced mushrooms or corn for a pop of freshness and different textures, making each spoonful a surprise.
Spice it Up: Incorporate jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love an extra kick in their soup.
Bread Bowl Surprise: Serve this creamy concoction in scooped-out bread bowls for a fun and hearty presentation.
Creaminess Contrast: Substitute cream cheese with sour cream for a tangier finish, adding a delightful twist to the overall flavor.
Chili Cheese Fusion: Top with crushed nacho cheese chips or shredded cheese for a comforting layer of flavor and crunch.
Pickle Perfection: Garnish with diced pickles on top for that quintessential cheeseburger zing that amplifies nostalgia.
Ranch Flavor Boost: Stir in ranch dressing right before serving for a creamy, herby flavor explosion that takes your soup up a notch.

For more hearty soups that love to embrace variations, check out my recipe for Cheese Mushroom Soup or the irresistible Wild Rice Soup. Enjoy crafting the perfect bowl of cheeseburger soup!

What to Serve with Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Imagine cozying up with a warm bowl of cheesy goodness, perfectly paired with delicious sides that elevate every bite!

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy exterior and soft interior of a fresh loaf soak up the creamy soup beautifully.
Garlic Bread: The comforting flavors of garlic butter on toasted bread complement the richness of the soup and add a delightful crunch with every bite.
Simple Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with fresh greens and vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty cheeseburger soup. Enjoy this colorful, healthy option!
Savory Cornbread: This delightful, slightly sweet bread serves as a perfect companion, capturing the essence of comfort food alongside your warm soup.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes cradle your soup’s flavors, enhancing heartiness that transforms the meal into pure comfort.
Pickles on the Side: Adding a zesty crunch, pickles offer a flavor pop that mirrors the cheeseburger vibe, enhancing the relatability of the bowl.
Brewed Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweet or unsweetened iced tea cuts through the richness nicely, providing a refreshing sip with each spoonful.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Complete the experience with a soft, chewy cookie for dessert, bringing smiles and nostalgia that perfectly matches your cheeseburger soup.

Pairing these delightful options will elevate your cheeseburger soup experience, making for a dining occasion full of warmth and satisfaction!

Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Soup

Creamy Consistency: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps, resulting in a velvety texture in your cheeseburger soup.
Blend It Smooth: For an ultra-smooth finish, consider using an immersion blender after adding the cream cheese.
Check Potatoes: Test potato tenderness before whisking in the cream cheese to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.
Toppings Galore: Feel free to personalize your cheeseburger soup with your favorite toppings, but avoid overloading to keep flavors balanced.
Adjusting Flavors: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; this ensures your soup meets your flavor preferences perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

You can easily make your Easy Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time, saving precious minutes on busy weeknights! To prep in advance, chop your vegetables (onion, potatoes, and carrots) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also brown the ground beef and refrigerate it, keeping everything fresh and ready to go. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped veggies and ground beef with the broth, and follow the remaining steps for a deliciously comforting meal that tastes just as delightful as if it were freshly made!

Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for cheeseburger soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use ground beef that is around 80% lean. This will provide enough fat to add richness to the soup without making it overly greasy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work wonderfully!

How long can I store leftover cheeseburger soup?
Very! Store your cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cheeseburger soup, allow it to cool completely and then transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Leave a little space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or milk to restore creaminess.

What if my cheeseburger soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than desired, simply add a splash of beef broth or milk while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. Tasting as you go is key, so feel free to adjust flavors if needed!

Are there any dietary modifications for cheeseburger soup?
Sure thing! To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. For dairy-free options, use cream cheese alternatives and non-dairy milk. Always check for allergies, and you can also omit any toppings that may not suit dietary preferences, like bacon.

Do the ingredients need to be fresh for the best cheeseburger soup?
Yes! Using fresh ingredients like garlic, onions, and herbs will greatly enhance the flavor of your cheeseburger soup. For vegetables like potatoes and carrots, ensure they are firm and free of blemishes for optimal taste and texture.