Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you crave the comfort of a classic, all-American cheeseburger but want something ladle-able and soul-warming, Cheeseburger Soup is about to be your new obsession! Imagine everything you love about a juicy burger—savory beef, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and plenty of potato goodness—all simmered in a creamy, hearty bowl. This cozy soup is pure comfort with a playful twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This soup proves that classic pantry staples and a few fresh veggies can work some serious magic together. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to give Cheeseburger Soup its rich body, savory depth, and those craveable cheeseburger vibes we all love.

• Ground beef or turkey: Pick your favorite—beef makes it extra classic, while turkey keeps things lighter but still hearty.
• Onion: Diced onion brings a subtle sweetness that builds big, savory flavor from the start.
• Celery: Adds a gentle crunch and rounds out the foundation of aromatic veggies.
• Diced tomatoes: The canned tomatoes add both juiciness and a tangy note that lifts the soup’s richness.
• Dried parsley flakes: A sprinkle of green for freshness and a touch of herby aroma.
• Butter: For sautéing and building that rich, velvety texture in every bite.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful base that lets the other ingredients shine while keeping the soup light.
• Potatoes: Peeled and diced, they make the soup extra creamy and comforting—just like fries with your burger!
• All purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, so it’s perfectly spoonable and not too runny.
• Velveeta or cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Velveeta makes the soup super creamy, but good cheddar adds depth and richness too.
• Milk: Brings all the creamy decadence home—full fat or 2% work best for flavor.
• Bacon: Fried crisp and crumbled over the top, for that ultimate cheeseburger flavor finishing touch.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): Melts into gooey goodness and makes every bowl extra special.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to flex your creativity—Cheeseburger Soup is famously adaptable. Swap in different proteins, play with veggies, or go wild with toppings to make it truly your own!

• Lighten it up: Use ground turkey or extra-lean beef, and swap in reduced-fat cheese and milk without losing that creamy, satisfying texture.
• Add veggies: Stir in a handful of chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even corn for extra color, flavor, and nutrients.
• Make it gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch slurry for the same thick, dreamy soup.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of jalapeños for a cheeseburger with a kick!

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning your ground beef or turkey in a large saucepan over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks to get those perfect bite-sized crumbles. Once browned, drain off any excess fat and set the meat aside—you’re already building delicious, savory depth!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In that same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and dried parsley flakes, then sauté until the veggies are soft and fragrant. This step is where the soup’s base gets its signature savory aroma—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, and cooked beef back into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and all the flavors have blended beautifully.

Step 4: Fry Bacon & Make the Roux

While the soup simmers, fry up the bacon in a separate pan until perfectly crispy, then set it aside to cool. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter (3 tablespoons) and whisk in the flour. Cook for a few minutes until bubbly and golden, creating a roux which will give your Cheeseburger Soup its signature creamy body.

Step 5: Thicken and Add the Cheese

Stir the roux directly into the soup and bring it back to a gentle boil, stirring for another 2 minutes until thickened. Lower the heat and slowly add the Velveeta (or cheddar) and milk, stirring until all the cheese has melted into a silky, luscious broth. Add a couple tablespoons of sour cream for extra tang and creaminess—and prepare for spoon-licking anticipation!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each portion with generous amounts of crumbled bacon and a shower of shredded cheddar. Your Cheeseburger Soup, in all its cheesy glory, is ready to wow your family and friends!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

For the full cheeseburger effect, top each bowl with a handful of crispy bacon crumbles and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Some chopped pickles, a dollop of sour cream, or even thinly sliced green onions are fun additions that deliver a punch of color and flavor—don’t forget a crack of black pepper!

Side Dishes

Bake up a batch of pillowy soft dinner rolls, set out a plate of buttery homemade croutons, or pair your Cheeeburger Soup with a crisp green salad drizzled in tangy vinaigrette. If you want to go all out, try serving fresh oven fries or classic potato chips on the side for the ultimate cheeseburger meal experience!

Creative Ways to Present

Lean into cheeseburger vibes by ladling the soup into bread bowls or serving in wide mugs for extra-cozy appeal. For parties, set up a “Soup Bar” with all your favorite burger toppings: diced onions, relish, sliced jalapeños, and crispy lettuce ribbons. Let everyone build their dream bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors deepen and meld as it sits, making for an even tastier bowl at lunch the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze Cheeseburger Soup—but for best texture, freeze it before you add the cheese and milk. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, then reheat and stir in cheese and milk right before serving for the creamiest results.

Reheating

Gently reheat refrigerated soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often so the cheese remelts without splitting. If reheating from frozen, thaw completely first, then heat and add the cheese and milk at the end for best texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If your dinner routine needs an instant pick-me-up, treat your loved ones (and yourself) to a piping hot bowl of Cheeseburger Soup. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and full of fun—warm your heart and your table with this comforting classic tonight!

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