The first truly chilly autumn evening always brings a specific craving to our home – something deeply comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying. Last year, it was a Friday, the kids were buzzing from a week of school, and the aroma of this very Cheeseburger Soup began to fill the kitchen. It was an instant hug in a bowl, and watching everyone’s eyes light up with that first spoonful reminded me why simple, hearty meals are often the most memorable.
This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is exactly what it sounds like: all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger transformed into a creamy, savory soup. It’s a fantastic one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and filling, but it’s also special enough for a cozy Sunday supper or a casual gathering with friends. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite, requested time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheeseburger Soup isn’t just another soup; it’s an experience! Here’s why I know you’ll fall head over heels for it:
- Incredibly Flavorful: It captures all the savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes of a real cheeseburger. The combination of seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar is pure comfort.
- Quick & Easy: Even with chopping some veggies, this soup comes together surprisingly fast, making it a perfect solution for those hectic weeknights. One pot means less cleanup too!
- Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with potatoes, ground beef, and a creamy broth, this Cheeseburger Soup is a truly filling meal that will leave everyone feeling happy and content.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this soup. It’s a fun and approachable way to enjoy familiar flavors in a new and exciting format.
- Customizable: Just like a cheeseburger, you can easily tweak the toppings to suit everyone’s preferences. More pickles? Extra cheese? Go for it!
This recipe is a winner for busy parents looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner, anyone craving ultimate comfort food, or even meal preppers who want a delicious lunch to look forward to throughout the week.
Ingredients for Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this delicious Cheeseburger Soup.
Core Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky depth and delicious crispy bits for topping. Look for good quality, thick-cut bacon if possible.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star of our “cheeseburger” element.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich base for the roux.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides an aromatic foundation. Yellow or white onions work well.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped: Adds a subtle savory note and lovely texture.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped: Lends a touch of sweetness and color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential aromatic kick. Fresh is best!
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: These break down beautifully, helping to thicken the soup and provide a hearty bite.
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a wonderful umami depth.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is key for thickening the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base of our Cheeseburger Soup. Low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness better.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup wonderfully rich and creamy.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The “cheese” in our Cheeseburger Soup! Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor. Shred it yourself for the best melt.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Or to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Or to taste.
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped (for topping): This is the secret ingredient that truly makes it taste like a cheeseburger!
Substitutions and Tips
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground turkey or even ground chicken, though the flavor will be slightly different. Ensure it’s cooked through.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option. If omitting bacon altogether, you might want to add a touch of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are a good alternative to russets; they hold their shape a bit more but still offer a creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth: Beef broth can be used for a richer, deeper flavor, making your Cheeseburger Soup even more robust. Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian base if you omit the beef and bacon.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup won’t be as rich or creamy. Chef’s Insight: For the creamiest result, stick with heavy cream.
- Cheese: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a Velveeta-style processed cheese (for ultra-melty results) can be used. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite Cheeseburger Soup blend!
- Flour: For a gluten-free version, you can use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the soup. Add it after the broth has simmered and cook until thickened.
Best Type of Ground Beef to Use
For the most flavorful Cheeseburger Soup, I recommend using lean ground beef with an 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio. The fat adds significant flavor to the soup and helps to keep the beef tender. If you use a leaner ground beef (like 90/10 or 93/7), you might find the beef a little less flavorful and potentially drier, but it’s a perfectly acceptable option if you’re looking to reduce fat.
If you opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning it. This will prevent your Cheeseburger Soup from becoming too greasy.
Viable Alternatives:
- Ground Chuck: This is often what 80/20 ground beef is. It has great flavor due to its fat content.
- Ground Sirloin: Typically leaner (around 90/10), it has a good beefy flavor but less fat. You might want to add a little extra olive oil when browning if it’s very lean.
- Ground Round: Also a leaner option, similar to ground sirloin.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for flavor richness versus leanness. For this Cheeseburger Soup, a little extra fat really enhances the overall taste.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes any recipe smoother. Here’s what I recommend for this Cheeseburger Soup:
Must-Have Tools
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Essential for browning the meat, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering the soup. A heavy bottom prevents scorching and ensures even cooking.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For prepping all those fresh veggies.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is key for a balanced Cheeseburger Soup.
- Ladle: For serving up your delicious creation.
Nice-to-Have Extras
- Bacon Grease Container: If you cook bacon often, it’s handy for saving that flavorful grease.
- Potato Peeler: Makes quick work of peeling the potatoes.
- Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts so much better than pre-shredded and really elevates your Cheeseburger Soup.
- Immersion Blender (Optional): If you prefer a smoother, creamier base without distinct potato chunks, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese and cream. Use with caution to avoid over-blending.
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Get ready to create a bowl of pure comfort! Follow these simple steps for the perfect Cheeseburger Soup.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In your large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. As it sizzles, enjoy that incredible aroma – it’s the first layer of flavor for our soup! Once crisp, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the pot with the reserved bacon grease. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s nicely browned. You should hear a good sizzle. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat. Don’t skip this draining step; it keeps your Cheeseburger Soup from being greasy.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the ground beef. Once melted, stir in the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. The kitchen should be smelling amazing by now! Add the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Roux and Add Potatoes
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates a roux that will help thicken our Cheeseburger Soup. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the peeled and cubed russet potatoes, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. You should see gentle bubbles, not a rolling boil. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Make it Creamy and Cheesy!
Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream. Then, gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. Pro-Chef Tip: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream and cheese, as this can cause it to curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) if needed. The consistency should be rich and velvety.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your delicious, hot Cheeseburger Soup into bowls. Garnish generously with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chopped dill pickles. Other great toppings include extra shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped green onions.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cheeseburger Soup is absolutely perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take the time to properly brown the bacon and ground beef. This caramelization builds a huge amount of flavor, which is foundational for a great Cheeseburger Soup.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly. For the creamiest, most luscious Cheeseburger Soup, buy a block of sharp cheddar and shred it yourself. It makes a noticeable difference!
- Simmer, Don’t Boil (After Dairy): Once you add the heavy cream and cheese, keep the heat low and avoid letting the soup come to a boil. High heat can cause dairy to curdle or separate, affecting the texture of your Cheeseburger Soup.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Salt and pepper amounts can vary based on your broth and personal preference. Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. A little extra salt can really make the flavors pop.
- Don’t Skip the Pickle Garnish! It might sound unusual, but the tangy crunch of dill pickles is what truly elevates this soup and gives it that authentic cheeseburger taste. Trust me on this one for your Cheeseburger Soup!
How to Store Easy Cheeseburger Soup
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Cheeseburger Soup, here’s how to store it properly:
- Room Temperature: Soups containing dairy and meat should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the ambient temperature is above 90°F/32°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the Cheeseburger Soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much upon cooling.
- Freezing Tips: Yes, you can freeze Cheeseburger Soup! However, soups with dairy (like the heavy cream and cheese in this recipe) can sometimes separate or become slightly grainy in texture upon thawing and reheating.
- To minimize this: Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Storage: Pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Thaw the frozen Cheeseburger Soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the texture seems a little off, you can try whisking it vigorously or even using an immersion blender for a few seconds to help re-emulsify it. Adding a little fresh cream or cheese while reheating can also help improve the texture.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making this delicious Cheeseburger Soup:
Can I make this Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cheeseburger Soup is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often meld and become even better overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I use a different kind of potato?
Yes, while russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy texture that helps thicken the soup, Yukon Gold potatoes are a good substitute. They hold their shape a bit more if you prefer more distinct potato pieces in your Cheeseburger Soup. Red potatoes would also work but will yield a slightly different texture.
How can I make this Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free?
To make this Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickening agent. A cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water) works well. Whisk it into the simmering soup after the potatoes are tender and cook until thickened. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and chicken broth are also certified gluten-free.
Is there a way to make this Cheeseburger Soup spicier?
Definitely! To add a little heat to your Cheeseburger Soup, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving. You could also sauté a chopped jalapeño along with the other vegetables.
What are some other good toppings for Cheeseburger Soup?
Beyond the classic bacon and pickles, try topping your Cheeseburger Soup with a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh chives or green onions, croutons for extra crunch, or even a drizzle of sriracha for some spice. Think of your favorite burger toppings!
Conclusion
This Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting embrace in a bowl. It delivers all the nostalgic flavors of a classic American cheeseburger in a rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying soup form. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, a hearty dish for a chilly day, or just a taste of pure comfort, this Cheeseburger Soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a beloved go-to in your recipe collection.
