Easy Cheeseburger Soup

This cheeseburger soup is rich, creamy, and packed with ground beef, hearty vegetables, and plenty of melty cheese. It brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm and comforting bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings, game nights, or when you need a satisfying meal, this soup is easy to make with simple ingredients.

Unlike traditional cheeseburgers, this dish is spoonable, making it an excellent option for those who love all the flavors of a cheeseburger but want something cozier. The creamy broth, tender potatoes, and perfectly seasoned beef make every bite irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Creamy and Hearty: A perfect balance of richness and comfort.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the cheese, seasonings, or toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and reheats beautifully.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools & Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For browning the beef and simmering the soup.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: To dice vegetables and potatoes evenly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps mix ingredients without scratching cookware.
• Small Saucepan: Needed for preparing the flour-thickening mixture.

Preparation Tips

• Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy texture.
• Shred your own cheese if substituting Velveeta for a better melt.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• ½ pound ground beef
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• ¾ cup carrots, diced
• ¾ cup celery, diced
• ¾ cup onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 4 cups potatoes, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 to 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings

• Onion rings
• Green onions
• Crumbled bacon

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Beef

• In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it is no longer pink.
• Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same pot.
• Add carrots, celery, onions, dried basil, and dried parsley.
• Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

3. Simmer the Soup

• Add potatoes, cooked ground beef, and chicken broth to the pot.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
• Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Thicken the Soup

• In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.
• Stir in the flour, cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously until it starts to bubble.
• Slowly stir this mixture into the soup and bring to a gentle boil for 2 minutes to thicken.

5. Add Cheese & Finish

• Reduce the heat to low.
• Stir in the Velveeta cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper.
• Once the cheese has fully melted, remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Top with onion rings, green onions, or crumbled bacon, if desired.
• Serve warm and enjoy.

Best Toppings for Extra Flavor

A great bowl of soup deserves the perfect finishing touches. Here are some delicious toppings to take your cheeseburger soup to the next level:

• Crumbled Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy texture that pairs well with the creamy base.
• Green Onions: A fresh and slightly sharp contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Onion Rings: A crispy topping that adds crunch and a touch of sweetness.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Boosts the cheesiness with a sharp and tangy flavor.
• Diced Pickles: Mimics the tangy element of a cheeseburger and balances the creaminess.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A nod to the classic burger bun, adding subtle nuttiness.
• Crushed Crackers or Croutons: A crunchy texture that works like a toasted bun replacement.

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Perfect Side Dishes

Pairing your cheeseburger soup with a complementary side dish can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some of the best side options:

1. Garlic Bread

The buttery, garlicky flavor of toasted bread pairs perfectly with the creamy soup. It is great for dipping and soaking up the cheesy broth.

2. Side Salad

A light salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. A simple Caesar or garden salad works well.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic comfort food pairing, a crispy grilled cheese sandwich makes this meal even heartier. Opt for cheddar or Swiss cheese for the best melt.

4. French Fries

Since cheeseburgers and fries are a perfect match, adding a small serving of crispy French fries on the side keeps the theme going.

5. Roasted Vegetables

For a healthier side, roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers offer a slightly sweet and smoky balance to the creamy soup.

6. Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm dinner rolls are great for scooping up the soup and adding a bit of texture. Try buttered or honey-glazed rolls for a touch of sweetness.

7. Pickles

Sliced dill pickles or a side of pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick, balancing the soup’s creamy base with acidity.

8. Coleslaw

A crisp, slightly sweet coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and lightens up the meal. It also brings in the familiar elements of a cheeseburger meal.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even a simple soup can go wrong if not prepared correctly. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Not Thickening the Soup Properly

One of the key elements of this soup is its creamy consistency. If it turns out too thin, the likely reason is that the flour-butter mixture wasn’t cooked long enough. Be sure to let it bubble before adding it to the soup to create a smooth and thick texture.

2. Overcooking the Potatoes

The potatoes should be fork-tender but not mushy. To avoid overcooking, monitor them closely and reduce the heat once they soften.

3. Using Low-Fat Cheese

Low-fat or pre-shredded cheese can result in a grainy texture because of added stabilizers. If substituting Velveeta, opt for freshly shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a smooth melt.

4. Skipping the Sour Cream

Sour cream adds depth and a slight tang, balancing out the richness of the cheese. Without it, the soup may taste overly heavy. If you don’t have sour cream, try Greek yogurt as a substitute.

5. Boiling the Soup After Adding Dairy

Dairy can separate or curdle if overheated. After adding the cheese and milk, keep the heat low and avoid boiling. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely.

6. Not Seasoning Enough

A good cheeseburger soup needs the right balance of salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or mustard can enhance the cheeseburger flavor.

7. Not Letting the Flavors Develop

Like many soups, this one tastes even better after sitting for a while. If possible, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, or make it ahead of time and reheat it later for enhanced flavor.

Recipe Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best results, use fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting, so shredding your own cheese will yield a better texture.

2. Adjust the Thickness

If the soup is too thick after cooking, add a splash of warm milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce, or stir in an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with water.

3. Let the Flavors Develop

Like many creamy soups, cheeseburger soup tastes even better after sitting for a while. Allowing it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors blend together.

4. Customize the Cheese

While Velveeta gives this soup its signature creamy texture, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a sharper flavor. If using these alternatives, add them gradually to ensure they melt smoothly.

5. Add a Flavor Boost

For an even deeper cheeseburger-like flavor, stir in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of yellow mustard. A few drops of hot sauce can add a slight kick without overpowering the dish.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Stir before reheating to redistribute the ingredients.

Freezing

• This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, but because it contains dairy, the texture may change slightly after thawing.
• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container or portion it into smaller containers for easy reheating.
• Label the container with the date for reference.

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Reheating Instructions

Stovetop Method (Best for Preserving Texture)

1. Pour the soup into a pot and heat over low to medium-low heat.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. If the soup has thickened too much in storage, add a splash of warm milk or broth.
4. Heat until warmed through, but do not let it boil to prevent curdling.

Microwave Method (For Quick Reheating)

1. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
3. Continue until the soup is evenly warmed.
4. If it appears too thick, stir in a little warm milk or broth before serving.

Thawing Frozen Soup

• Transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator the night before to thaw slowly.
• Once thawed, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating directly from frozen, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent separation.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

2. How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?

Avoid overheating or boiling the soup after adding the cheese. Keep the heat low and stir continuously until fully melted.

3. Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese and sour cream in the last 30 minutes and stir well.

4. What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

You can use shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese. To ensure a smooth melt, add it gradually and stir continuously.

5. Is there a way to make this soup healthier?

For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and skim milk instead of whole milk. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Check that all other ingredients, such as broth, are gluten-free.

7. What should I do if my soup is too salty?

If the soup is too salty, add a little more milk or broth to dilute it. A squeeze of lemon juice or a small amount of sugar can also help balance the flavors.

8. Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes. Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini can be added. Cook them separately and stir them into the soup before serving to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid.

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Conclusion

This cheeseburger soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a rich, creamy bowl. With the right storage and reheating techniques, it stays just as delicious for days. Whether making it ahead for meal prep, customizing it with different cheeses and toppings, or pairing it with a side dish, this soup is versatile and satisfying. Follow these tips to enjoy the best possible version of this recipe every time.