There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a savory soup on a chilly evening, especially when it captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger! Picture this: creamy, hearty cheeseburger soup that comes together in just 35 minutes. This dish combines the comforting elements of ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese into a single pot, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
After a long day, it’s easy to fall into the fast food trap, but I’ve discovered that this recipe not only excites your taste buds but also nourishes your soul. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this soup is both budget-friendly and delicious—perfect for satisfying cravings without the guilt. Ready to dive in? Let’s create a bowl of nostalgia that feels as good as it tastes!
Why is Cheeseburger Soup so comforting?
Warmth and Nostalgia: This cheeseburger soup evokes the familiar flavors of your favorite burger, all in a cozy bowl that wraps you in warmth.
Quick and Effortless: With just 35 minutes to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when time is tight.
One-Pot Wonder: Save on dishes while enjoying a hearty meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the deliciousness packed into every spoonful!
Customizable Delight: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences by swapping proteins or adding extra veggies.
Budget-Savvy Meal: Enjoy this rich and fulfilling soup without breaking the bank, offering great value for your meal planning.
Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Bacon – Adds a crispy texture and smoky flavor; can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Ground Beef – Provides the savory base of the soup; extra-lean beef is recommended for less grease.
• Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with olive oil or vegetable oil for a healthier twist.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; any type of onion can be used, but yellow onions are preferable for flavor.
• Celery – Brings crunch and freshness; green bell pepper may serve as a substitute if needed.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; can use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances flavor complexity; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be a substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free thickening alternative.
• Chicken Broth – Serves as the base liquid; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess; sour cream or milk can substitute for a lighter version of cheeseburger soup.
• Yellow Mustard – Adds tanginess and depth; Dijon mustard can also be used for a punchier flavor.
• Russet Potatoes – Contributes heartiness; Yukon gold potatoes are a flavorful alternative.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts for creaminess and robust flavor; use freshly grated cheese for better melting, or substitute with mozzarella if desired.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Balances flavors with a hint of acidity; lime juice may work as a substitution as well.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; use sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.
For Serving
• Crispy Bacon – A delightful topping that adds crunch and complements the creamy soup beautifully.
• Fresh Herbs (optional) – Chopped parsley or chives can brighten up the dish and add freshness.
Grab these ingredients and get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of cheeseburger soup that’s sure to delight!
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup
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Cook Bacon: In a large pot over medium-high heat, crisp the chopped bacon for about 10 minutes. Once crispy, remove it and drain on paper towels to achieve that perfect texture.
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Brown Beef: In the same pot, add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, around 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.
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Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in the pot. Then, toss in chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes, and add minced garlic for an additional 30 seconds to boost the soup’s flavor.
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Add Flour: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to combine. This helps thicken your soup for that creamy consistency we love!
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Combine Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by heavy cream, mustard, potatoes, and the cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer partially covered until the potatoes are tender, around 10-15 minutes.
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Finish Soup: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh lemon juice. Adjust the consistency as needed with more broth or cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Ladle into bowls, topping each serving with crispy bacon and additional cracked black pepper for an extra flair. Enjoy the warmth of your cheeseburger soup!
Optional: Add some chopped fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheeseburger Soup ingredients can be prepped in advance to save you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, celery, and carrots up to 24 hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and ground beef up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them separately to keep flavors intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the cooked ingredients, sauté the prepped vegetables until tender, then follow the cooking steps from combining liquids onwards. This will ensure your soup is just as delicious as if made fresh, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor!
Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Soup
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Crispy Bacon Matters: Ensure the bacon is perfectly crisp to provide a delightful texture contrast against the creamy soup, enhancing your eating experience.
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Freshly Grated Cheese: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for optimal melting and richness. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well and may contain anti-clumping agents.
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Blend for Smoothness: For an even creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the cheese, creating a velvety finish that many love.
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Watch Your Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while browning the beef to avoid burning. Low and steady is the secret to a rich, flavorful base in your cheeseburger soup.
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Season Incrementally: Remember to adjust your seasoning as you go! Taste throughout the cooking process, adding salt and pepper gradually to achieve the perfect flavor.
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Experiment with Veggies: Don’t be afraid to customize! Add extra veggies like bell peppers or even spinach to enhance the nutritional value while maintaining that comforting cheeseburger flavor.
Cheeseburger Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon for a healthier twist that still delivers a satisfying crunch.
- Ground Turkey: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter, leaner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a hearty vegetarian delight.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and give a colorful upgrade to your soup.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat in their bowl.
- Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb version, use riced cauliflower instead of potatoes for a light yet filling soup.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free soup that still satisfies.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
What to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup?
Looking to create a memorable meal that pairs beautifully with your comforting bowl of soup?
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up all that delicious flavor.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad featuring mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic bring an irresistible, savory touch to your meal.
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Pickle Chips: Tangy pickles add a delightful crunch and acidity, enhancing the cheeseburger flavor experience.
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French Fries: Golden, crispy fries complement the soup wonderfully, offering a familiar flavor that pairs perfectly with its heartiness.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the soup, balancing each bite.
These pairings create a heartwarming meal that brings joy to the table, making every spoonful of cheeseburger soup that much more delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Soup
Fridge: Store leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze cooled cheeseburger soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the soup’s consistency.
Reheating: Always reheat soups slowly to prevent curdling of the cream and cheese. Stir occasionally for an even heat distribution.
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for cheeseburger soup?
I recommend using extra-lean ground beef for this cheeseburger soup to keep it flavorful without being greasy. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles can work beautifully, adapting this comfort food to your dietary preference!
How do I choose ripe vegetables for my soup?
When selecting your vegetables, look for fresh, vibrant colors. For your potatoes, opt for firm ones without dark spots or wrinkles. Onions should feel heavy for their size and have a nice sheen. Carrots should be crisp, and the celery should snap easily when bent, indicating freshness.
How should leftover cheeseburger soup be stored?
Store any leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture we love. If you see separation, just give it a good stir!
Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your cheeseburger soup, let it cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your cheeseburger soup turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep it creamy while ensuring it’s not too heavy. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed!
Is this cheeseburger soup suitable for kids?
Yes, this cheeseburger soup is a hit with kids! It combines familiar flavors in a fun, comforting form. If you’re concerned about spice, feel free to leave out any mustard or hot sauce, making it mild and enjoyable for their taste buds.
Hearty Cheeseburger Soup: Comfort in Every Creamy Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, crisp the chopped bacon for about 10 minutes. Once crispy, remove it and drain on paper towels.
- In the same pot, add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, around 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Melt butter in the pot. Toss in chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes, then add minced garlic for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to combine.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by heavy cream, mustard, potatoes, and the cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer partially covered until potatoes are tender, around 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh lemon juice. Adjust consistency as needed.
- Ladle into bowls, topping each serving with crispy bacon and additional cracked black pepper.