The rich aroma of simmering beef and melted cheese wafts through the kitchen, pulling everyone in for a taste. As I stir the pot of creamy Cheeseburger Soup, I can’t help but smile—this is comfort food at its finest. With a Velveeta base that’s decadently smooth, this soup marries the indulgence of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of a warm bowl of soup. Perfect for family dinners or that cozy night in, the benefits are irresistible: it’s quick to whip up and satisfying enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough for your CrockPot or Instant Pot, making it a hassle-free weeknight favorite. Are you ready for a bowl of this creamy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds?
Why Is This Cheeseburger Soup Special?
Comforting Warmth: This Cheeseburger Soup wraps you in a hug with every spoonful, delivering a satisfying blend of flavors that reminds you of your favorite burger.
Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you choose the quick stovetop method or prefer a leisurely CrockPot approach, this recipe fits any schedule.
Family-Friendly Fun: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Rich, Creamy Texture: The combination of Velveeta and tender potatoes creates a luscious base that brings comfort with every bite.
Endless Customizations: Feel free to mix it up! Add your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese for a unique twist. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Give this comforting recipe a try, and for more creative recipes, check out my Garlic Butter Dish or enjoy a heartwarming Sweet Sour Dinner.
Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to gather the essentials for a creamy and comforting bowl of Cheeseburger Soup!
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Lean ground beef (90%-93% lean recommended) makes for a hearty protein source.
- Onion – Sweetens the soup with depth; chopped yellow or white onions work beautifully.
- Carrots – Introduces natural sweetness; opt for shredded for quicker cooking.
- Celery – Adds a fresh crunch; diced celery enhances texture.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic, minced or pressed, elevates the flavor profile.
- Butter – Used for sautéing veggies and creating a roux, enhancing the dish’s richness.
- Chicken Broth – Forms the soul of the soup; homemade or store-bought both provide great flavor.
- Peeled Potatoes – Yukon gold or Russets are excellent for heartiness; avoid red potatoes that can turn mushy.
For Thickening and Creaminess
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; swap for gluten-free flour if desired.
- Pepper Jack Velveeta – Delivers a rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness; feel free to explore other flavors for a twist!
- Milk – Adds creaminess; both 2% and whole milk work well.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
- Black Pepper – Just a pinch adds a delightful hint of spice.
- Sour Cream – Stir in for added creaminess; Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as alternatives.
Enjoy diving into this delicious Cheeseburger Soup Recipe that captures the essence of cozy family meals!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a 3-quart saucepan, heat over medium-high heat and add lean ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, making sure to break it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat, then set the beef aside while keeping the pan ready for the next flavorful step.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery; sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. The onion should become translucent, adding a sweet aroma that enhances your cheeseburger soup experience.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic, along with dried basil and parsley, and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the soup with herbal notes and depth, making it an irresistible foundation for your delicious Cheeseburger Soup.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring in the diced potatoes and the cooked beef. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, watching it closely. Once boiling, you’ll see bubbles actively forming, signaling that it’s time to reduce the heat.
Step 5: Simmer for Tenderness
Lower the heat, cover, and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the potatoes reach the perfect creamy consistency for your Cheeseburger Soup.
Step 6: Make the Roux
In a small skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Slowly whisk in all-purpose flour, stirring continuously until bubbly—around 2 minutes. This roux will thicken your soup, creating that luscious texture we love in a hearty cheeseburger dish.
Step 7: Stir the Roux into the Soup
Once the roux is ready, stir it into the simmering soup. Increase the heat to bring the soup back to a boil, and let it cook for another 2 minutes. You’ll notice the soup thickening as it comes together, creating a satisfying base for your creamy Cheeseburger Soup.
Step 8: Incorporate the Creaminess
Reduce the heat once more and add in the Pepper Jack Velveeta cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the soup, creating a creamy, rich mixture that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your bowl.
Step 9: Finish with Sour Cream
Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until completely combined. This final touch enriches the cheeseburger soup, enhancing its texture and flavor. Your creamy Cheeseburger Soup is now ready to be served!
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Variations
Get ready to explore delicious twists that can elevate your Cheeseburger Soup into something uniquely yours!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to create a creamy stew everyone can enjoy. This ensures no one misses out on comfort!
-
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies. This not only enhances nutrition but creates a vibrant color that makes it more appealing.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery delight. For heat lovers, this twist will surely awaken those taste buds!
-
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or crumbled feta for unique flavor profiles. Each cheese adds its own distinct character, making the soup even more exciting.
-
Potato Alternative: Use frozen cubed hash browns for a quicker prep time. This shortcut saves you time while still delivering that comforting heartiness.
-
Creamy Alternatives: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that’s also healthier. Pairing it with fresh herbs can add a refreshing finish to your soup.
-
CrockPot Convenience: Opt for a CrockPot version to simmer all day with flavors melding beautifully. This hands-off cooking method frees up your schedule while filling the home with delicious aromas.
-
Toppings Galore: Top your soup with crispy bacon, croutons, or your favorite chopped pickles for added crunch and flavor. Those extra touches can transform a simple bowl into a gourmet experience.
Feel free to get creative and adjust this recipe to fit your families’ tastes! For more warmth-filled meals, check out my Cheeseburger Bowl Meal, or try the delightful String Bean Chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before sealing. When thawing, the potatoes may become mushy.
Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Note: This Cheeseburger Soup recipe is a delightful option for meal prep, ensuring comfort food is always a spoon away!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheeseburger Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep flavors vibrant. Additionally, you can chop the onions, carrots, and celery in advance to save time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy Cheeseburger Soup, just add the prepped ingredients to your pot with the rest of the components, simmer, and finish with Velveeta and sour cream—allowing you to savor that rich, comforting dish with minimal hassle. Enjoy deliciousness just as fresh as when you made it!
Expert Tips for Making Cheeseburger Soup
-
Lean Beef Choice: Use 90%-93% lean ground beef to avoid excess grease; draining the fat also enhances the soup’s flavor.
-
Roux for Thickness: Making a roux is crucial for a creamy texture; if using shredded cheese, the soup may be thinner than expected.
-
Potato Selection: Opt for Yukon gold or Russets; avoid red potatoes which can become mushy and affect the soup’s consistency.
-
Sour Cream Addition: Always add sour cream off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth finish in your cheeseburger soup.
-
Flexible Cooking: For convenience, utilize a CrockPot or Instant Pot; ensure to adjust cooking times as needed for the best results.
What to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup?
Imagine a table filled with inviting accompaniments that elevate your hearty soup into a wholesome feast!
-
Crusty Bread:
The perfect tool for soaking up every last drop of soup; a crusty ciabatta or sourdough never disappoints. -
Fresh Garden Salad:
A crisp, green salad adds a refreshing crunch and balance to the rich flavors of your cheeseburger soup. -
Carrot Sticks with Hummus:
Bright and crunchy, carrot sticks provide a toddlers’ favorite alongside a savory dip for a delightful crunch. -
Sweet Potato Fries:
Their natural sweetness paired with a hint of salt makes these crispy bites a fabulous complement to the creamy soup. -
Pickle Chips:
A tangy bite perfectly balances the richness of the soup, delivering bursts of flavor that keep every spoonful exciting. -
Vegetable Platter:
An assortment of colorful veggies introduces freshness and variety, perfect for light snacking alongside your comforting bowl. -
Crispy Bacon Bits:
Sprinkle some crispy bacon on top of your cheeseburger soup for a savory touch that enhances the burger essence wonderfully. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
A zesty, bubbly drink brightens up the meal with a refreshing finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Delight your family or guests with these vibrant sides that truly create a full dining experience alongside your delicious cheeseburger soup!
Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs
How should I select the right potatoes for my soup?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using Yukon gold or Russet potatoes in your Cheeseburger Soup. Avoid red potatoes, as they have a tendency to become mushy during cooking. Look for potatoes that are firm and free from dark spots or wrinkles—those are signs of freshness!
How do I store leftover Cheeseburger Soup?
Great question! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on medium heat, stirring until warmed through.
Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then ladle it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creaminess.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Cheeseburger Soup is thicker than desired, don’t worry—it’s an easy fix! Just add a bit of milk or chicken broth gradually while stirring, until you reach the desired consistency. This way, you keep the cheesy goodness without losing that comforting base.
Is there a gluten-free option for this soup?
Yes! To make this Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It thickens just as well and allows everyone to enjoy this marvelous recipe without any worries!
Can I use different types of cheese in my Cheeseburger Soup?
Very much! While I love using Pepper Jack Velveeta for its creaminess and flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or even a blend of your favorites. Just remember that switching to shredded cheese may result in a thinner texture, so be prepared for adjustability!
Savor the Comfort of This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 3-quart saucepan, heat over medium-high heat and add lean ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery; sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring in the diced potatoes and the cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Cover and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- In a small skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about 2 minutes until bubbly.
- Stir the roux into the simmering soup. Increase heat and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat and add in the Pepper Jack Velveeta cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully combined.
