If you have a craving for something that’s hearty, comforting, and downright delicious, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine all the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melted cheese, tender potatoes, and a medley of fresh veggies—transformed into a creamy, spoonable soup that warms your soul. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you want a meal that feels like a big, cozy hug. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy all that burger goodness without any of the hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory ground beef to the creamy Velveeta cheese that melts into a luscious base. Fresh vegetables add texture and color, while herbs like basil and parsley bring subtle aromatic notes that elevate the soup beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that delivers rich, meaty flavor.
- ¾ cup onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
- ¾ cup carrots, shredded: Brings a gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
- ¾ cup celery, diced: Offers a fresh, crisp bite to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed: Infuses a warm, fragrant punch to the soup.
- 4 cups peeled potatoes, diced: Provides comforting heft and creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes: Brightens the soup with gentle herbal notes.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Just enough spice to keep things lively.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties everything together.
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided: For sautéing and creating that silky roux.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup into a rich, velvety consistency.
- 12 ounces pepper jack Velveeta, cubed: Melts into cheesy goodness with a touch of spicy kick.
- 1½ cups milk: Adds creaminess to balance the spices and enhance texture.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Finishes the soup with tangy creaminess that’s pure indulgence.
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. This step releases all those wonderful beefy flavors. Once cooked, drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy and set the beef aside for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, basil, and parsley flakes. Cook them gently for about 10 minutes until the veggies soften and start to become fragrant. Add the pressed garlic near the end, cooking for one more minute to release its aroma without burning it.
Step 3: Add Broth, Potatoes, and Beef
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced potatoes and the browned beef back into the pot. Bring this hearty mix to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are tender and everything is melding together beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Roux
While the soup simmers, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet. Stir in the flour and keep stirring for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture bubbles and takes on a golden hue. This roux will give your soup that thick, creamy consistency that makes every spoonful so satisfying.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
Slowly add the roux mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly as it returns to a boil. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes until the broth thickens up nicely and the steam starts rising, signaling that your soup is reaching perfection.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Milk
Turn the heat down to low, then add the cubes of pepper jack Velveeta, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously to melt the cheese fully into the soup, creating a smooth, cheesy base with just the right hint of spicy kick from the pepper jack.
Step 7: Finish with Sour Cream
Remove the soup from the heat and swirl in the sour cream for a tangy, velvety finish. This small but brilliant addition balances richness with light acidity, making the soup incredibly comforting and flavorful. Serve it warm and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cheeseburger Soup Recipe to the next level, consider sprinkling the top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or finely chopped green onions. These little extras give texture contrast and additional bursts of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Side Dishes
Serve your soup with a fluffy dinner roll or buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing complement, creating a balanced meal that’s hearty but not heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl, adding an impressive rustic touch. Individual ramekins topped with tiny cheeseburger sliders on the side make for a memorable presentation at family dinners or casual gatherings. The possibilities are as exciting as the soup itself!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the leftover soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so your next-day lunch will be just as delicious, if not better. Give it a good stir before reheating to distribute all those tasty ingredients evenly.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe on hand for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Just remember to cool it completely and store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing that signature cheeseburger flavor and creamy texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently over medium-low heat while stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the cheese melts back into a silky smooth finish. Avoid boiling to keep the soup from breaking or curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this soup?
Absolutely! While pepper jack Velveeta gives a creamy texture and spicy twist, you can swap it out for cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, Cheeseburger Soup Recipe freezes well. Just be sure to cool it thoroughly before freezing and reheat gently to maintain its luscious texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty mushrooms, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. The flavors will still come together beautifully.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
For a thicker consistency, add a little more flour when preparing the roux, or let the soup simmer longer uncovered to reduce. If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more milk or broth to loosen it up.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream handy, Greek yogurt or creme fraiche make excellent substitutes, providing that same tangy creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to comfort food. It captures everything you love about cheeseburgers in a cozy, creamy bowl that’s perfect to warm you on any day. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup brings joy and hearty satisfaction with every spoonful. Don’t wait—give it a try and make it your new go-to comfort meal!
Print
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Cheeseburger Soup combines savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting soup is easy to prepare and serves 8, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- ¾ cup onion, chopped
- ¾ cup carrots, shredded
- ¾ cup celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed
- 4 cups peeled potatoes, diced (about 1¾ pounds)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Liquids
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups milk
Dairy and Fats
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 12 ounces pepper jack Velveeta, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup sour cream
Others
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside for later use.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, and parsley flakes. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the pressed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth, Potatoes, and Beef: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes along with the cooked ground beef. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the Roux: Meanwhile, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the roux is bubbly and golden but not burnt.
- Thicken the Soup: Gradually add the roux mixture into the soup pot. Bring the soup back to a boil, stirring continuously, and cook for 2 minutes until the broth thickens.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Reduce heat to low and stir in the pepper jack Velveeta cubes, milk, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the soup becomes smooth.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the soup from heat and blend in the sour cream to enhance creaminess and add a slight tang. Serve the soup warm.
Notes
- Use gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free version of the soup.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the black pepper.
- You can substitute pepper jack Velveeta with cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to reach desired consistency.
