Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe captures all the nostalgic, comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a creamy, hearty bowl of soup. With savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a melty cheese finish, it’s pure magic when you want all the taste of your favorite burger joint, minus the bun and the mess. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, one spoonful of this soup will have your family coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of kitchen staples can create something so satisfying. Each ingredient in the Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is an essential player, bringing its own flavor, body, or creamy goodness to the table. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground Beef: Gives the soup its rich, meaty cheeseburger base and irresistible flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness to both the sauteed vegetables and the creamy roux for that silky texture.
• Carrots: Brings a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
• Celery: Enhances the soup’s aromatic foundation and provides a gentle crunch.
• Onion: The start of every great soup—total flavor booster!
• Dried Basil & Parsley: Delivers wonderful herbaceous notes that balance the soup’s richness.
• Potatoes: Their tender bite mimics the best loaded fries and makes the soup hearty.
• Chicken Broth: Layers in depth and a savory backdrop for every other flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the broth so it turns delightfully creamy (not watery!).
• Velveeta Cheese: The star ingredient that melts smoothly for unbeatable cheesiness.
• Whole Milk: Brings everything together and delivers a luxe, velvety finish.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the flavors of every ingredient.
• Sour Cream: Swirled in at the end, it gives a little tang that instantly elevates the soup.
• Onion Rings, Green Onions, Bacon (optional toppings): For crunch, color, and a truly diner-style presentation!

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by cooking your ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Let it sizzle, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink—about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is what gives our soup that signature cheeseburger flavor, so don’t rush it! Drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside. You’ll add it back in for that classic burger bite.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then toss in your carrots, celery, onions, dried basil, and parsley. Sauté everything together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and smelling fantastic. This aromatic base infuses every spoonful of the Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe with a burst of flavor and color.

Step 3: Simmer with Potatoes and Broth

Add in your diced potatoes, browned beef, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a lively boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 to 12 minutes, just until the potatoes are fork-tender. Now, it’s starting to look (and taste!) like real comfort food.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Meanwhile, in a separate small pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 3 to 5 minutes; you want it to bubble but not brown. This roux is your secret weapon for a perfectly creamy, not watery, soup. Once thickened, whisk it into the simmering pot of soup. Turn the heat up until everything boils and let it cook for another 2 minutes as it thickens up beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese, Milk, and Finish with Sour Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in your Velveeta cubes, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is smooth and fully melted—this transforms the broth into a gorgeously cheesy base. Remove the pot from the heat, add in the sour cream, and give it a good stir for a final hit of tang. The Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is now ready to ladle up and serve!

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Your soup will be delicious on its own, but garnishes really let you have fun and play up the burger vibe! Sprinkle on crunchy onion rings, fresh green onions, or crispy crumbled bacon. Try a handful of shredded cheddar or even a few pickles for a next-level, cheeseburger-inspired finish.

Side Dishes

This soup is super satisfying on its own, but it pairs perfectly with classic sides. Think crusty garlic bread for dunking, a crisp green salad, or even a batch of sweet potato fries if you’re feeling extra traditional. It’s also great with soft dinner rolls—just like you’d get at your favorite burger spot.

Creative Ways to Present

For a little fun, serve your Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in bread bowls, top with sesame seeds to mimic a burger bun, or set up a DIY topping bar so family and friends can build their ultimate bowl with everything from jalapenos to diced tomatoes. It’s a great twist for parties or casual gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your cooled Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight and it reheats beautifully for effortless lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—just keep in mind that dairy-based soups can separate slightly, so a good stir is key.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the soup seems extra thick, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling the dairy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?

Absolutely! While Velveeta melts smoothly, you can use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more pronounced flavor. Just shred your own for the creamiest results, since pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Is the Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe gluten-free?

If you need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend or use cornstarch to thicken. Always double-check that your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Certainly! Omit the ground beef and use a meatless crumble or lentils instead. Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth, and you’ll have a decadent, veggie-packed creamy soup that vegetarians can enjoy.

How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?

If your soup is too thick, simply stir in extra milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. To thicken a thin soup, let it simmer uncovered a little longer or stir in a spoonful of instant mashed potato flakes.

Can I add extra vegetables?

For sure! This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is endlessly adaptable—think sweet corn, diced bell pepper, or a handful of spinach at the end for extra nutrition and color. Try what you love and make it yours!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe a try the next time you’re craving comfort food with a fun, flavorful twist. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, fast enough for busy nights and special enough to serve to loved ones. If you make it, be sure to experiment with the toppings and truly make it your own!

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