Cheeseburger Soup

If you love the flavor of a juicy cheeseburger but want something warm, cozy, and spoonable, this cheeseburger soup is exactly what you need. Too often, versions of this soup turn out greasy, bland, or overly thick—more like cheese sauce than a balanced meal.

This recipe gets it right. It’s creamy but not heavy, loaded with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and real cheese, all simmered in a rich, comforting broth. It tastes like a classic cheeseburger in soup form—familiar, satisfying, and perfect for chilly nights.

I’ve made this cheeseburger soup many times for family dinners and leftovers, and it’s always a hit. Below, you’ll learn how to build big flavor, keep the texture smooth, and customize it so it works for your household every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy soup

• Creamy and hearty without being greasy

• One-pot comfort food that’s easy to make

• Family-friendly and filling

• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients & Prep

This cheeseburger soup uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.

Main Ingredients Prep

• Ground beef – Use 80/20 for the best flavor, drained well

• Potatoes – Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced small

• Onion – Finely diced so it blends into the soup

• Carrots – Diced small for sweetness and color

• Celery – Adds classic savory depth

Seasonings, Sauces, or Flavor Base

• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds richness

• Salt and black pepper – Season in layers

• Smoked paprika – Optional, adds subtle warmth

• Mustard powder – Optional, boosts cheeseburger flavor

Pantry Staples

• Butter – Builds richness

• Flour – Thickens the soup

• Chicken or beef broth – Low sodium works best

• Milk or half-and-half – For creaminess

• Sharp cheddar cheese – Freshly grated for smooth melting

• Sour cream – Optional, adds tang and creaminess

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This cheeseburger soup comes together easily in one pot.

Pre-Cooking Prep

1. Peel and dice potatoes into small, even pieces.

2. Dice onion, carrots, and celery.

3. Grate the cheddar cheese and set aside.

Cooking Method

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and set beef aside.

2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat.

3. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook 1 minute.

6. Slowly whisk in broth until smooth.

7. Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.

8. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

9. Simmer 12–15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

10. Stir in cooked ground beef.

11. Lower heat and add milk or half-and-half.

12. Add cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring until melted before adding more.

13. Stir in sour cream if using.

Doneness or Texture Check

• Potatoes tender but not mushy

• Soup thick, creamy, and smooth

• Cheese fully melted with no graininess

Resting or Final Touches

Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the beef – Can make the soup greasy

• Boiling after adding cheese – Causes grainy texture

• Using pre-shredded cheese – Doesn’t melt smoothly

Recommended Tools

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often

• Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens

• Not ideal for freezing due to dairy

Flavor Variations

This cheeseburger soup is easy to customize.

Spicy Version

• Add diced jalapeños

• Stir in hot sauce or cayenne

• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar

Healthy / Special Diet Option

• Use lean ground turkey

• Swap milk for low-fat milk

• Add extra vegetables like cauliflower

• Make it gluten-free using cornstarch instead of flour

Global Flavor Twist

• Loaded burger: Top with green onions and extra cheese

• Smoky: Add smoked cheddar or smoked paprika

Serving Suggestions

This soup is hearty on its own but pairs well with simple sides.

Side dishes

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls

• Simple green salad

• Grilled cheese sandwich

Drinks, sauces, or toppings

• Extra shredded cheese

• Chopped pickles or green onions

• Cracked black pepper

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cheeseburger soup reheats well. Warm it slowly and stir often to keep the texture smooth.

How do I fix common mistakes?

• Too thick: Add more broth or milk

• Too thin: Simmer uncovered a few minutes longer

• Grainy texture: Lower heat and stir in a splash of milk

Conclusion

This cheeseburger soup is rich, comforting, and packed with classic flavor in every bite. It’s the perfect way to enjoy everything you love about a cheeseburger in a warm, cozy bowl.

Save this recipe for busy weeknights, share it with comfort-food fans, and if you love hearty soups like this, try potato soup or creamy beef and vegetable soup next. Nothing beats a simple, satisfying homemade meal.