Cheeseburger soup is a warm, creamy hug in a bowl! Packed with beef, cheese, and veggies, it brings all the tasty flavors of a cheeseburger into a delicious soup.
It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something cozy. I like to top mine with crunchy croutons for a fun twist—who doesn’t love a little crunch? 🍔🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! You can use lean ground beef for less fat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or turkey sausage works well, too!
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes because they add heartiness. However, you can swap them with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice bold flavor. If you prefer, try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste. Vegan cheese is also a great substitute for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Whole milk keeps the soup creamy, but you can use skim milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk as a lighter alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?
Thickening the soup is all about the milk and flour mixture. Here’s how to ensure it’s smooth and creamy:
- Make sure to whisk the milk and flour together until there are no lumps before adding it to the soup.
- Stir the mixture gradually into the soup while it’s simmering. This helps prevent clumps and gives a silky texture.
- Allow the soup to cook for a few minutes after adding the milk mixture until it thickens and bubbles lightly.
This will give your cheeseburger soup the comforting thickness that makes it feel like a warm embrace! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- For Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
- Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheeseburger soup will take about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting all the ingredients ready and about 35 minutes cooking it to creamy perfection. It’s perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and cook it over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks until it’s browned all over. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat, so your soup isn’t too greasy!
2. Cook the Veggies:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. Mmm, the smell is already wonderful!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, beef broth, and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included). Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
4. Thicken the Soup:
While your soup simmers, take a small bowl and whisk the milk and flour together until smooth to avoid lumps. This will help thicken your soup nicely!
5. Stir in the Milk Mixture:
Gradually pour the milk mixture into the soup while stirring gently. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until the soup thickens and becomes creamy. You’re almost there!
6. Add the Cheese:
Lower the heat and add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts completely into the soup, making it extra cheesy and delicious!
7. Optional Bacon:
If you want to add a bit of crunch and flavor, stir in the chopped cooked bacon at this point.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your cheeseburger soup is ready! Serve it hot in bowls, topped with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and some green onions or chives for that extra fresh touch. Dig in and enjoy a hearty meal!
This soup really captures all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a delightful broth. Perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave something cozy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. It will still deliver a deliciously hearty soup, just with a lighter flavor. You might want to season it a little extra to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze the Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, many plant-based cheese substitutes will work well, too. Just make sure they melt nicely for that creamy texture!
