This cheeseburger soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! It has all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, like beef, cheese, and veggies, simmered into a creamy goodness.
You might find it hard to resist having a second bowl—it’s that good! I love serving it with some crunchy crackers or fresh bread for a tasty twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken. You could even use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this soup because it adds rich flavor. If you don’t have sharp cheddar, feel free to use mild cheddar, or mix in some Monterey Jack or gouda for a different twist.
Milk or Half-and-Half: I prefer whole milk for its creamy texture, but you can use low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk if you want a lighter option. Just remember, using dairy alternatives can slightly change the creaminess.
Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers add great flavor, but you can also throw in some carrots or celery for more veggies! If you’re short on time, frozen mixed vegetables can work too.
How Do I Ensure My Soup is Creamy Without Curdling?
Cooking dairy can be tricky! To keep your soup creamy, remember to lower the heat before adding milk or half-and-half. Gradually stir it in and avoid boiling once it’s added. This helps prevent curdling for that smooth finish.
- Watch the heat — turn it down when the dairy goes in!
- Stir gently to blend the milk into the broth.
- If it gets lumpy, don’t fret! A quick blend with an immersion blender can fix it.
Following these easy tips will help ensure your cheeseburger soup is creamy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup diced potatoes (optional)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheeseburger soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes before you can enjoy this comforting dish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it thoroughly until browned, then carefully drain any excess fat. This step ensures your soup isn’t greasy!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are softened. This will make your soup smell amazing!
3. Add Flour:
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat and veggies. Stir everything well and let it cook for 1-2 minutes—it helps to get rid of that raw flour taste and adds thickness to your soup.
4. Mix in the Broth:
Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. If you’re using diced potatoes, add them now. Bring your soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add Milk and Seasonings:
Lower the heat to medium-low, then slowly stir in the milk or half-and-half. Be sure to add it slowly and gently, as you don’t want it to boil. Next, mix in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Now comes the best part! Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and smooth. It will turn your soup creamy and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your soup hot, garnished with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. Enjoy this hearty soup with some crusty bread or crispy crackers on the side!
Dig in and savor each comforting spoonful of this cheeseburger goodness!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for ground beef! Just be aware that turkey is leaner, so it might require a bit more seasoning to enhance its flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or skip it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for bulk and flavor!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to add the cheese when reheating for the best texture. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
