Name: Perfect Cheeseburger Soup Recipe – Creamy Comfort in 35 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings

Pin This! Jump to Recipe

Introduction

There’s something magical about transforming your favorite burger into a warm, comforting bowl of soup that brings the whole family to the table. This cheeseburger soup captures all the flavors you love about a classic American cheeseburger – juicy ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and that perfect blend of savory seasonings – but in a creamy, soul-warming form that’s perfect for busy weeknights. When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something hearty yet simple, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 35 minutes. You’ll learn how to build layers of flavor, achieve the perfect creamy consistency, and create a soup that’s so satisfying, it might just become your new go-to comfort food.

Why Cheeseburger Soup Matters for Your Kitchen

This cheeseburger soup isn’t just another recipe – it’s your solution to those hectic evenings when you need something comforting, filling, and family-approved. Unlike complicated dinner preparations, this one-pot wonder combines the nostalgic flavors of America’s favorite burger with the convenience of a simple soup. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, transforms humble ingredients into something special, and proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Plus, it’s versatile enough to feed a crowd or provide satisfying leftovers for the week ahead.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from one of those “what’s in the fridge?” moments when I had leftover ground beef and a craving for something creamy and comforting. The inspiration struck when I realized that all the components of a perfect cheeseburger could work beautifully in soup form – the beef provides protein and heartiness, the vegetables add texture and nutrition, and the cheese creates that irresistible creamy richness we all crave.

If you’re looking for more comforting soup recipes, you’ll love our hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup for another cheesy favorite, and our collection of cozy fall soups and stews for seasonal inspiration. For additional cheeseburger soup variations, check out this one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup or this favorite cheeseburger soup recipe for different takes on this classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Cheeseburger Soup
5 strips turkey bacon, chopped (or substitute with regular bacon for richer flavor) 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 blend works perfectly for flavor and texture) 1 cup heavy cream (the secret to that luxurious, velvety consistency) 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded) 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped (sweet onions work beautifully too) 2 ribs celery, chopped (adds that essential crunch and freshness) 2 medium carrots, chopped (for natural sweetness and color) 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves, or use fresh for best flavor) 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 large potatoes) 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted preferred for better control of seasoning) 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (creates the perfect thickening base) 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (allows you to control salt levels) 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (adds that classic burger tang) 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (brightens the entire dish) Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Ingredient Spotlight

The sharp cheddar cheese is truly the star of this cheeseburger soup – it provides that bold, tangy flavor that makes you think “cheeseburger” with every spoonful. The heavy cream creates that restaurant-quality richness without overwhelming the other flavors. Don’t skip the yellow mustard – it’s what gives this soup its authentic burger taste, adding just the right amount of tang. The Russet potatoes not only make the soup more filling but also help thicken it naturally as they break down slightly during cooking.

Timing

Quick and Efficient Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes (20% faster than similar layered soups) Cook Time: 25 minutes (perfect for weeknight dinners) Total Time: 35 minutes (faster than ordering takeout!) Servings: 10 generous bowls (perfect for families or meal prep) Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly (one pot, simple steps)

Instructions

Step-by-step process of making cheeseburger soup showing browning beef, adding vegetables, and stirring in cheese — Follow these simple steps for perfect cheeseburger soup every time

Step-by-Step Cheeseburger Soup Instructions
### Cook the Bacon: Cook chopped turkey bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes). My grandmother always said crispy bacon is the foundation of great flavor – transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. ### Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the same pot (don’t clean it – you want those bacon drippings for flavor!). Cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it up with your spoon. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot. ### Sauté the Vegetables: Melt butter in the same pot. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened – you’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and fragrant. ### Add the Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it burn – garlic goes from perfect to bitter very quickly! ### Incorporate the Flour: Add flour to the mixture and stir until well combined, creating a light roux. This step is crucial for preventing lumps later – cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. ### Whisk in the Broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth, then add heavy cream, diced potatoes, mustard, and the cooked beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. ### Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. The soup should coat the back of a spoon when ready. ### Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and lemon juice. If the soup seems too thick, adjust with more broth or cream. Season with salt and pepper, then ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup

Professional Tips for Success
Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy. Freshly grated cheddar melts like a dream and creates that silky texture you’re after. Don’t boil after adding cheese: Once you’ve stirred in the cheddar, keep the heat low. Boiling can cause the cheese to separate and become stringy instead of creamy. Cut potatoes evenly: Uniform potato pieces ensure they all cook at the same rate. Aim for 1/2-inch cubes – they’ll be tender but still hold their shape. Build your roux properly: When adding flour to the vegetables, stir constantly and cook for a full minute. This eliminates any raw flour taste and creates the perfect thickening base. Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste your soup and adjust seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice can make all the difference in balancing the flavors.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Busy Cook’s Version: Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh – just add them with the potatoes and increase cooking time by 5 minutes. This saves chopping time without sacrificing nutrition.

Kid-Friendly Adaptation: Replace the mustard with a tablespoon of ketchup for a milder, sweeter flavor that children love. You can also blend half the soup for a smoother texture.

Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheddar cheese. The soup will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño with the vegetables and a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who like their comfort food with a kick.

Leftover & Reuse Ideas

Transform leftover cheeseburger soup into a hearty pasta sauce by reducing it slightly and tossing with cooked macaroni or penne. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a dip for crusty bread. For a creative twist, pour cooled soup into a casserole dish, top with biscuit dough, and bake for a unique pot pie experience. Leftover soup also makes an excellent base for a breakfast hash – just add some scrambled eggs on top!

Pairing Ideas

Serve your cheeseburger soup with warm, crusty dinner rolls or homemade cornbread for the perfect comfort meal combination. A crisp green salad with ranch dressing complements the richness beautifully. For beverages, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon, iced tea, or classic lemonade. Pickle spears on the side add that authentic burger experience and help cut through the soup’s richness.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the soup into warmed bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon pieces for the best presentation. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar and a few chopped green onions add beautiful color contrast. For a restaurant-style touch, serve with oyster crackers or homemade croutons. Consider serving in bread bowls for special occasions – it’s impressive yet surprisingly easy to do at home.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 10 servings): Approximately 285 calories, 18g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 18g fat, 2g fiber. This soup provides a good source of protein from the ground beef and calcium from the cheese. The vegetables contribute vitamins A and C, while the potatoes add potassium and fiber to make this a well-rounded comfort meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding cheese while the soup is too hot: This causes the cheese to seize and become grainy. Always remove from heat before stirring in cheese – the residual heat will melt it perfectly.

Skipping the flour step: The flour creates the thickening base that gives your soup body. Without it, you’ll end up with thin, watery results instead of the rich consistency you want.

Overcooking the vegetables: Nobody wants mushy vegetables in their soup! Cook them just until tender – they’ll continue cooking slightly in the hot broth.

Using pre-shredded cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting. Take the extra minute to grate fresh cheese for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftover cheeseburger soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight containers. When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the dairy from separating. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, thin it with a little chicken broth or milk. For best results, avoid freezing this soup as the dairy components don’t freeze well and may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?: Yes! You can prepare everything up to adding the cheese, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the cheese just before serving for the best texture.
Is cheeseburger soup kid-friendly?: Absolutely! Kids love the familiar flavors, and you can easily adjust the seasonings to be milder. Try substituting ketchup for mustard if your little ones prefer sweeter flavors.
Can I use different types of cheese in cheeseburger soup?: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Just avoid hard cheeses like Parmesan, which don’t melt as smoothly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in cheeseburger soup?: Half-and-half works well for a lighter version, or you can use whole milk with a tablespoon of flour whisked in to help prevent curdling. Evaporated milk is another excellent substitute.
How can I make my cheeseburger soup thicker?: If your soup is too thin, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.

Conclusion

Steaming bowl of creamy cheeseburger soup topped with crispy bacon and fresh herbs, served with crusty bread — The perfect bowl of cheeseburger soup – comfort food at its finest

This cheeseburger soup proves that the best comfort foods are often the simplest ones. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and satisfying heartiness, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite from the very first spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a cozy meal to warm you up, this soup delivers every time. The beauty lies in its simplicity – familiar ingredients transformed into something special that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Made these Cheeseburger Soup? Drop your twist in the comments, rate the recipe, and tag us on facebook, instagram with #erinrecipes — we might feature your creation!

Servings:

servings

Author: Unknown Author