Easy Cheeseburger Soup

This easy cheeseburger soup is rich, creamy, and packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. Made with savory ground beef, hearty vegetables, tender potatoes, and plenty of melted cheese, this soup is the perfect comforting meal for cold nights.

If you love the taste of a juicy cheeseburger, this soup delivers the same delicious combination of beef, cheese, and seasonings, all in a warm, hearty bowl. It’s a great option for family dinners, meal prepping, or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot meal – Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
• Thick and creamy – A satisfying texture that feels like comfort food.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for leftovers – The flavors develop even more over time.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking everything in one pot.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir and break up the ground beef.
• Sharp knife – For dicing vegetables and potatoes.
• Cutting board – To prepare ingredients safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Small saucepan – For making the flour and butter mixture that thickens the soup.

Each of these tools helps with efficiency and ensures the soup has the right texture and consistency.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• ½ pound ground beef
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• ¾ cup carrots, diced
• ¾ cup celery, diced
• ¾ cup onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 4 cups potatoes, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth

For Thickening & Creaminess:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 to 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings:

• Onion rings
• Green onions
• Crumbled bacon

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef.
2. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink.
3. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add carrots, celery, onions, dried basil, and dried parsley.
3. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Add the potatoes, cooked ground beef, and chicken broth to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover.
3. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

1. In a separate small pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until it bubbles.
3. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup.
4. Bring the soup to a gentle boil for 2 minutes to allow it to thicken.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Finish

1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Stir in the Velveeta cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper.
3. Once the cheese is fully melted, remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top with onion rings, green onions, or crumbled bacon, if desired.
3. Serve warm.

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Recipe Tips

• For extra cheesiness, use a combination of Velveeta and shredded cheddar.
• To make it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and replace whole milk with low-fat milk.

Serving Suggestions

This rich and creamy soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are eight great options:

1. Garlic Bread

The buttery, garlicky flavor of warm bread is perfect for soaking up the thick, cheesy broth. A crusty baguette or homemade garlic toast works just as well.

2. Classic Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy rolls balance the heartiness of the soup. Serve them warm with butter for a simple yet delicious pairing.

3. Side Salad

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the soup. Try mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing.

4. French Fries

Since cheeseburger soup is inspired by a classic burger, serving it with crispy French fries makes perfect sense. You can use regular fries, waffle fries, or even tater tots.

5. Coleslaw

A fresh and tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch to the meal. A vinegar-based slaw pairs especially well with the creamy texture of the soup.

6. Pickles

Adding dill pickles on the side enhances the cheeseburger theme. The salty, briny taste of pickles provides a nice contrast to the creamy soup.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

For the ultimate comfort food combination, pair cheeseburger soup with a crispy, golden-brown grilled cheese sandwich. The extra melted cheese makes this pairing irresistible.

8. Sweet Potato Fries

If you want something a little different, serve the soup with sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the soup.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even simple recipes can go wrong if certain steps aren’t followed correctly. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cheeseburger soup turns out perfect every time.

1. Overcooking the Potatoes

Potatoes should be tender but not mushy. Overcooking them can cause them to break down too much, turning the soup into a grainy, starchy mess. Check them after 10 minutes of simmering and remove from heat once they are fork-tender.

2. Boiling the Dairy

Milk, cheese, and sour cream can curdle if the soup is boiled after they are added. Keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent separation.

3. Not Thickening the Soup Properly

Skipping or rushing the butter-flour mixture can lead to a thin, watery soup. Be sure to cook the flour in butter for at least 3 minutes before adding it to the soup. This helps remove any raw flour taste and ensures proper thickening.

4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For a creamier texture, use freshly shredded cheese or Velveeta.

5. Skipping the Seasoning Adjustments

Salt levels can vary depending on the broth and cheese used. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If it tastes flat, a small pinch of salt can make a big difference.

6. Adding Too Much Cheese at Once

Dumping all the cheese in at once can lead to clumps. Instead, add it gradually, stirring continuously to help it melt evenly into the soup.

7. Not Draining the Ground Beef Properly

If too much grease is left in the soup, it can become overly oily. Always drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy texture.

8. Using Low-Fat Dairy Alternatives Incorrectly

While low-fat milk or cheese can be used, they may not create the same rich texture. If using lower-fat options, add a small amount of cornstarch or extra flour to maintain thickness.

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Customization Ideas

Make It Spicy

Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.

Make It Healthier

Use ground turkey instead of beef, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Make It Low-Carb

Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb version while still keeping the creamy, cheesy texture.

Make It Even Cheesier

Mix in a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda for extra depth of flavor.

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Bringing It All Together

With the right side dishes, proper preparation, and a few customization options, cheeseburger soup can be a perfect meal for any occasion. Paying attention to small details, like how you cook the potatoes or when you add the cheese, ensures a consistently delicious result. Whether you enjoy it with crispy garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a side of fries, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef. Freshly shredded cheese also melts more smoothly compared to pre-shredded varieties.

2. Cook the Flour Mixture Properly

When making the butter and flour mixture to thicken the soup, cook it for at least 3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This helps create a smoother, richer texture.

3. Add Dairy at the Right Time

Always lower the heat before adding milk, cheese, and sour cream. High heat can cause dairy to separate or curdle, affecting the soup’s texture.

4. Adjust the Seasonings

Because cheese and broth contain varying levels of salt, always taste the soup before serving. If the flavors seem flat, a small pinch of salt or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the taste.

5. Keep the Texture Balanced

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving. If you like a thinner consistency, add extra broth or a splash of milk.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool before placing it in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, since it contains dairy, the texture may change slightly after thawing. Stirring well while reheating helps restore its original consistency.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Warm the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the dairy from separating.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
• Frozen Soup: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Stir well to blend any separated ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly lighter, but the seasonings and cheese help maintain the rich taste.

2. What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

You can substitute Velveeta with freshly shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese. For extra creaminess, add a small amount of cream cheese or heavy cream.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything (except the dairy) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the cheese, milk, and sour cream just before serving.

4. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or thicken the soup with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Ensure that all other ingredients, including broth, are gluten-free.

5. How do I make the soup thicker?

If the soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also stir in a small amount of mashed potatoes or an extra tablespoon of the butter-flour mixture.

6. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, though the texture will be different. Replace butter with plant-based alternatives, use unsweetened almond or oat milk, and swap Velveeta for a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes. You can make the soup up to a day in advance and reheat it on the stove over low heat. If making ahead, wait to add the cheese and sour cream until just before serving to maintain the best texture.

8. What toppings go well with this soup?

Popular toppings include crispy bacon, green onions, shredded cheddar, onion rings, or crushed crackers. Adding a few toppings enhances both flavor and presentation.

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Final Thoughts

This cheeseburger soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. With the right ingredients, careful preparation, and proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this dish anytime. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this hearty soup is sure to become a favorite.

By following these tips, storage methods, and recipe variations, you can easily adjust the soup to match your preferences while ensuring the best texture and taste. Experiment with different toppings, side dishes, or alternative ingredients to make it your own.