Cheeseburger Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Cheeseburger Soup. On a chilly winter evening, when the first snowflakes start to fall, I often find myself craving this hearty dish. The rich, savory flavors remind me of a classic cheeseburger but in a creamy, delicious soup form. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for bustling weeknights or cozy weekends. Gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories while enjoying a steaming bowl of Cheeseburger Soup, is one of my favorite winter traditions. The aroma wafting through the kitchen as it simmers brings everyone together, eagerly anticipating the first taste.
Recipe Snapshot
45 mins
15 mins
30 mins
Medium
400 kcal
20 g
Gluten-Free
25 g
Calphalon Cookware Set, Staub Cast Iron Skillet, The Recipe Critic Measuring Cups
Why You Need This Cheeseburger Soup
Comfort in a Bowl
What I love most about Cheeseburger Soup is that it brings together the best of both worlds: the classic elements of a cheeseburger and the heartiness of a soup. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a warm meal that’s filling yet comforting. The creamy texture combined with the flavorful ingredients makes it a standout dish.
Kid-Friendly and Fun
If you have little ones, this soup is a fantastic way to introduce them to new flavors. The familiar taste of cheeseburger satisfies picky eaters, and they won’t even realize they’re eating vegetables! It’s a win-win for parents.
Easy to Prepare
Another reason I adore this recipe is its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in no time, making it accessible even for novice cooks. It’s one of those recipes that can easily become a staple in your household.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients in Cheeseburger Soup can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different types of cheese, you can customize it to your liking. The base remains the same, but you can always add your twist!
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best aspects of this soup is that it stores beautifully. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen, maintaining their flavor. This means you can enjoy the comforting taste of Cheeseburger Soup even on those busy days when cooking isn’t feasible.
Holiday Warmth
During the winter holidays, serving Cheeseburger Soup adds a cozy touch to gatherings. It’s a great way to warm your guests and create a memorable experience, making it not just a meal but a cherished memory.
Shopping List for Cheeseburger Soup

When preparing Cheeseburger Soup, the ingredients are straightforward yet delicious. Each component plays a vital role in crafting this comforting dish. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious balance that elevates the entire experience, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ¾ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups Velveeta processed cheese, cubed or 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
Preparation Steps for Cheeseburger Soup

Cooking Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Each step builds on the last, ensuring a rich and flavorful result. Let’s dive into the preparation!
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for flavor. Drain the excess fat and set the meat aside.
- In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, parsley flakes, basil, and diced celery. Sauté them over medium heat until they soften, around five to seven minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables become tender and aromatic.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth, add the diced potatoes, and return the browned ground beef to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about ten to twelve minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
- In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking and stirring for three to five minutes until it becomes bubbly and light golden. This roux will help thicken your soup.
- Pour the roux into the soup, stirring it in until it thickens. Bring it to a gentle boil again, then reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the cheese (Velveeta or cheddar), milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. The combination of cheese and milk adds a delightful richness that makes this soup irresistible.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and blend in the sour cream. This final addition brings a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a lovely touch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Things Worth Knowing
- Thickening Agent: The roux made from butter and flour is key to achieving a creamy texture. Make sure to cook it until bubbly for the best results.
- Cheese Selection: Different types of cheese can change the flavor profile. Experiment with various cheeses to find your favorite blend.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cooking Method: This recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker. Just brown the beef, add everything to the slow cooker, and let it simmer for several hours.
Making Adjustments

When making Cheeseburger Soup, there are plenty of ways to adjust the recipe to suit your taste and preferences. Here are some great tips for customizing this dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Freezing: Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
- Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that enhances the flavors of the soup.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer flavor, add an extra splash of cream or more sour cream.
Pairing Suggestions for Cheeseburger Soup
When it comes to serving Cheeseburger Soup, there are plenty of options to make the meal even more delightful:
- Crusty Bread: The perfect side to soak up the creamy soup is a delicious slice of crusty bread. Think sourdough or a fresh baguette for that satisfying crunch.
- Garden Salad: Pairing with a fresh garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Toss in some vibrant greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.
- Occasions: This soup is great for winter gatherings, cozy family dinners, or casual lunch with friends. It’s a go-to comfort food for any occasion.
- Seasonal Variations: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on the season. Add seasonal vegetables or herbs for a fresh twist during different times of the year.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, consider transforming them into a cheesy casserole by pouring the soup over a bed of pasta and baking it for a delightful twist.
FAQ
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger Soup recipe truly captures the essence of comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a must-try for anyone looking to warm up on a cold day. I encourage you to give it a shot; you won’t be disappointed!

Cheeseburger Soup
Equipment
- Calphalon Cookware Set
- Staub Cast Iron Skillet
- The Recipe Critic Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- ¾ cup Chopped Onion
- ¾ cup Shredded Carrots
- ¾ cup Diced Celery
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Flakes
- 4 tablespoons Butter, divided
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 4 cups Peeled and Diced Potatoes
- ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Velveeta Processed Cheese, cubed or 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 ½ cups Milk
- ¾ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon Pepper
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and set the meat aside.
- In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, parsley flakes, basil, and diced celery. Sauté them over medium heat until they soften, around five to seven minutes.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth, add the diced potatoes, and return the browned ground beef to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about ten to twelve minutes.
- In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking and stirring for three to five minutes until it becomes bubbly and light golden. This roux will help thicken your soup.
- Pour the roux into the soup, stirring it in until it thickens. Bring it to a gentle boil again, then reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the cheese (Velveeta or cheddar), milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and blend in the sour cream. This final addition brings a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a lovely touch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: This soup can be frozen for up to three months.
- Tip 3: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Tip 5: For richer flavor, add more sour cream.


