Cheeseburger Soup is a creamy and cheesy delight that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cozy bowl. Made with ground beef, cheese, and veggies, it’s quick to whip up!
This soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. I love topping it with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of green onions. It’s a fun twist that makes dinner feel like a treat! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your soup! Feel free to use lean ground beef to cut down on fat. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey or chicken work well, too. You could even skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version by using lentils or mushrooms.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes can be a great alternative. Sweet potatoes can also add a fun twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic cheeseburger flavor, but you can mix it up! Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses would be delicious. If lactose is a concern, dairy-free cheese can also work here.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang. If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. Plain yogurt works as well—just avoid sweetened kinds!
How Do I Thicken My Soup Just Right?
Getting the right thickness for your soup can be a challenge. The key is to make a slurry with flour and milk, which helps create that creamy texture we all love. Here’s a quick guide:
- In a bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This prevents lumps in your soup.
- Once your soup begins to simmer, slowly stir in the slurry while mixing well. This helps thicken it evenly.
- Continue cooking on medium-low heat but avoid boiling—this keeps the cream from curdling and preserves a nice, smooth texture.
Adjust the thickness to your liking! Add more milk for a thinner soup or let it simmer a bit longer for a thicker consistency.
These tips should help you create a delicious Cheeseburger Soup that everyone will love!
How to Make Delicious Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: cooked crispy bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy Cheeseburger Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 40 minutes to deliciousness! Perfect for a weeknight meal or when you want something comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables and Broth:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
4. Create a Slurry:
While the soup simmers, take a separate bowl and whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This will thicken your soup nicely! After about 15 minutes, slowly add this slurry to your soup while continuously stirring to combine.
5. Thicken the Soup:
Keep cooking over medium-low heat and let the soup thicken, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Just remember not to let it boil, or you may lose that creamy texture!
6. Stir in Cheese and Cream:
Once thickened, reduce the heat and gently add the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream to the pot. Stir until the cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy and luscious.
7. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time for a taste test! Season your soup with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Adjust any seasonings as you prefer.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Your Cheeseburger Soup is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with sliced green onions and optional crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
Dig in and savor the rich, creamy, and deliciously comforting flavors of your homemade Cheeseburger Soup! Perfect for warming your heart and your tummy! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative to beef. Just be aware that they might not have the same rich flavor, so consider adding additional seasonings or using a bit of optional Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Can I Freeze Leftover Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt, which will give a similar creaminess and tang. You can also use cream cheese for a richer texture!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or hearty mushrooms for protein and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’re set for a delicious cheeseburger soup that’s meat-free!
