The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Imagine all the flavors you love in a juicy, mouthwatering cheeseburger, but in a warm and comforting soup. The Best Cheeseburger Soup captures everything that makes a classic cheeseburger so irresistible—the beef, the cheese, and all those rich, savory flavors—wrapped up in a creamy, delicious broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something to serve at your next family gathering, this soup is guaranteed to please.
What is Cheeseburger Soup?
Cheeseburger soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the essence of a cheeseburger into soup form. It’s a combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, potatoes, and vegetables like onions and carrots, all simmered in a rich broth. The result? A creamy, savory soup that delivers all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger in every spoonful.
The Comfort of Cheeseburgers in a Bowl
If you love the taste of cheeseburgers but want something a little more comforting, cheeseburger soup is the perfect answer. The warmth of the soup, combined with the satisfying flavors of a burger, makes this dish ideal for cozy nights or as a unique alternative to traditional soups.
How Soup Enhances Cheeseburger Flavors
What makes cheeseburger soup so special is how the flavors meld together. Ground beef adds a savory, meaty base, while cheddar cheese brings creaminess and richness. Potatoes and vegetables round out the texture, making every bite comforting and satisfying. Unlike a regular cheeseburger, the soup format allows the flavors to develop and deepen as it simmers.
Perfect for Cold Weather and Cozy Dinners
This soup is a fantastic choice for cold days when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. It’s thick, hearty, and full of flavors that will remind you of your favorite cheeseburger, making it a perfect dish for fall and winter months.
Ingredients for the Best Cheeseburger Soup
To make the best cheeseburger soup, it’s important to choose high-quality ingredients that bring out the full flavor of the dish.
Key Components of the Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious cheeseburger soup:
- Ground beef: The main protein in the soup. Choose lean ground beef for the best texture.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for a bold, cheesy flavor.
- Potatoes: These add heartiness to the soup and help thicken the broth.
- Onions, carrots, and celery: These veggies provide a savory base and balance the richness of the cheese.
- Beef broth: Adds depth to the soup’s flavor and serves as the base.
- Butter and flour: Used to create a roux that thickens the soup.
- Milk or cream: For added creaminess, giving the soup its luscious texture.
- Garlic and spices: Seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper bring the flavors together.
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
When choosing ground beef for your soup, opt for something lean, like 80% lean beef. This keeps the soup rich without becoming overly greasy. If you want a slightly lighter version, you could also use ground turkey or chicken.
Best Cheese for a Rich, Creamy Texture
Cheddar cheese is the star of this soup, but the type you choose makes a difference. Sharp cheddar adds a stronger, more pronounced flavor, while mild cheddar will give you a subtler, creamier finish. For an extra gooey texture, consider adding a bit of Velveeta or cream cheese into the mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheeseburger Soup
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect cheeseburger soup.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned. Once cooked, drain the excess fat, then set the beef aside.
Building the Soup Base
In the same pot, melt some butter and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This forms the flavorful base of the soup. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for a few minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup later.
Adding the Cheese and Final Touches
Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the potatoes and cook until they’re tender. Stir in the cooked ground beef, milk or cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, making the soup creamy and rich. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and any additional spices like paprika or mustard powder.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup
Making the perfect cheeseburger soup requires a few tips and tricks to get the flavor and texture just right.
Thickening the Soup for a Heartier Meal
If you like your soup extra thick, you can increase the amount of flour in the roux or add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Another option is to blend some of the cooked potatoes and add them back into the soup to naturally thicken the broth.
Choosing the Right Vegetables for Texture
While onions, carrots, and celery are traditional in cheeseburger soup, you can get creative with your vegetable choices. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes can add extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook them until tender so they meld seamlessly into the soup.
Creative Variations for Cheeseburger Soup
This soup is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your dietary preferences or flavor preferences.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Options
For a low-carb version, skip the potatoes and use cauliflower florets instead. You can also swap regular flour for almond flour or omit it altogether if you prefer a thinner broth.
Adding Toppings for Extra Flavor
Just like with a traditional cheeseburger, toppings can take this soup to the next level. Try garnishing with:
- Crispy bacon bits
- Pickle slices
- Diced tomatoes
- A drizzle of ketchup or mustard
Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Soup
Cheeseburger soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can elevate the meal even further.
Best Sides to Serve with This Soup
Serve cheeseburger soup with:
- Crusty bread: For dipping into the creamy broth.
- Soft pretzels: These make for a perfect salty side.
- French fries or potato wedges: For an extra indulgent pairing.
Drink Pairings to Complement the Dish
This hearty soup pairs well with:
- A light beer: A cold lager or pilsner complements the rich, cheesy flavors.
- Iced tea or lemonade: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
- Red wine: A smooth red like a Merlot can balance the richness of the soup.
Conclusion
The Best Cheeseburger Soup is a fun and comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl of soup. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests. With its rich broth, tender beef, and melty cheddar cheese, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.
The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Imagine all the flavors you love in a juicy, mouthwatering cheeseburger, but in a warm and comforting soup. The Best Cheeseburger Soup captures everything that makes a classic cheeseburger so irresistible—the beef, the cheese, and all those rich, savory flavors—wrapped up in a creamy, delicious broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something to serve at your next family gathering, this soup is guaranteed to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
- 3 cups potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Crumbled bacon and chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate. Set aside. - Sauté the vegetables:
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. - Add the broth and potatoes:
Pour in the chicken or beef broth, then add the diced potatoes, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Make the roux:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and 1/2 cup of the milk until smooth. Stir the mixture into the soup and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup begins to thicken. - Add the remaining ingredients:
Stir in the remaining milk, cooked ground beef, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Stir in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve:
Ladle the cheeseburger soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Cheese: Feel free to use a sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses to enhance the flavor.
- Thickening: For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork before adding the cheese.
- Toppings: Customize the soup with toppings like pickles, extra cheese, or even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for a true cheeseburger taste!
This Cheeseburger Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, making it a comforting and delicious meal for the whole family.