Cheeseburger Soup: A Creamy Comfort in a Bowl

If you’ve ever wished your favorite juicy burger could somehow transform into a warm, cozy soup, you’re in luck. Cheeseburger soup takes everything you love about a classic American cheeseburger — the beef, the cheese, the rich flavor — and delivers it in spoonfuls of creamy comfort. On a cold night or a lazy weekend, this hearty bowl can turn your kitchen into the best diner in town.

I first tried this recipe on a snowy January afternoon. The wind was howling outside, and all I wanted was something comforting that didn’t take all day to make. After the first taste, I knew I’d struck gold. Each bite felt like a hug — cheesy, savory, and just indulgent enough without being over the top.

What Is Cheeseburger Soup?

At its core, cheeseburger soup is exactly what it sounds like — a flavorful fusion of America’s favorite sandwich and a cozy, creamy soup. Imagine all the parts of a cheeseburger — ground beef, onions, potatoes, melted cheese — coming together in a thick, velvety broth that clings perfectly to your spoon.

The recipe likely started in Midwest kitchens where comfort food reigns supreme. It combines the richness of a chowder with the down-home flavor of a grilled burger. Unlike a “burger chowder,” this soup leans more toward creamy indulgence than tomato-based broth, making it perfect for chilly nights or game-day gatherings.

The best part? You can adjust the flavors to suit your mood — smoky with bacon, spicy with jalapeños, or extra cheesy with a mix of sharp cheddar and Velveeta.

Cheeseburger Soup

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• Author: Rasha Annan
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Cheeseburger Soup is a creamy, hearty blend of ground beef, melted cheddar, tender potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a rich, comforting broth. It delivers the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cozy soup form — perfect for chilly nights or family dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 medium carrots, shredded

• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, chopped pickles, extra cheese, or green onions

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Instructions

• Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until cooked through. Drain and set aside.

• In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes, until softened.

• Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

• Gradually whisk in chicken broth. Add diced potatoes, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

• Add milk and return the cooked beef to the pot. Heat gently, avoiding boiling.

• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted and creamy.

• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Serve hot, topped with bacon bits, chopped pickles, or extra cheese.

Notes

For a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Avoid boiling after adding milk or cheese to prevent curdling.

For meal prep, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently with added milk or broth.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 980 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0. 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Creating this creamy, savory bowl is easier than you think. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, chopped pickles, extra cheese, or green onions

Equipment:

A large soup pot or Dutch oven, a ladle, a whisk, a wooden spoon, and a cutting board are all you need.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Sauté and Simmer

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. As it cooks, season lightly with salt and pepper. Once it’s browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, melt the butter and add your onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aroma. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for a minute — this helps create a smooth, rich base for your soup.

Build the Base

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let everything simmer gently for 10–12 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Make It Creamy

Pour in the milk and return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir everything together and let the mixture heat through, but don’t allow it to boil — that keeps the milk from curdling. Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.

At this point, your kitchen will smell like a burger joint and a cozy diner rolled into one.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite burger-inspired garnishes — crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, or even a swirl of ketchup and mustard if you’re feeling bold. Serve it alongside toasted buns or crusty bread for the full cheeseburger experience.

Dietary Variations and Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily adapt cheeseburger soup to fit almost any diet without sacrificing flavor.

Vegetarian or Vegan

Replace the ground beef with plant-based “meat” or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a vegan cheese alternative that melts well. Swap milk for unsweetened oat or cashew milk for a creamy finish.

Gluten-Free

Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for thickening. Double-check your broth and cheese to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Low-Carb or Keto

Skip the potatoes and use diced cauliflower instead. Heavy cream can replace milk, and full-fat cheese will give the same rich texture with fewer carbs.

Low-Calorie

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, reduce the cheese slightly, and use low-fat milk. Add more vegetables to bulk up the soup without increasing calories.

Halal or Kosher

Ensure your beef and cheese are certified halal or kosher, and skip bacon toppings. A drizzle of olive oil or crunchy croutons adds great texture instead.

Flavor Twists and Creative Variations

This comforting dish is endlessly customizable. Try these fun flavor spins:

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Stir in crispy bacon bits for smoky depth.

Pickle Lover’s Version: Add chopped dill pickles or a splash of pickle juice at the end for tangy brightness.

Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a bold flavor boost.

Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Top each bowl with sour cream, green onions, and shredded lettuce for a “fully loaded burger” effect.

Mushroom & Swiss Twist: Substitute cheddar with Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, diner-style spin.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Like many creamy soups, cheeseburger soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The potatoes will absorb some liquid, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back their silky texture.

Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove or in the microwave at 50% power. Avoid boiling — this can cause the dairy to separate.

If you plan to freeze it, leave out the cheese and milk before freezing. Add them later when reheating for the best texture. The soup will keep frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition and Health Considerations

A typical serving of cheeseburger soup offers a comforting balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. One bowl averages around 400–500 calories, depending on the cheese and meat used. For a lighter version, use lean beef and low-fat dairy.

This soup is high in calcium from the cheese and milk, and it provides a hearty dose of vitamins from the carrots and celery. However, to keep sodium and saturated fat in check, consider using low-sodium broth and limiting processed cheese.

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a steaming bowl of cheeseburger soup. It captures all the best parts of a backyard cookout and wraps them in cozy, creamy warmth. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or settling in for a quiet evening, this soup brings comfort with every bite — like your favorite diner special, made right at home.

FAQ

How do you thicken cheeseburger soup?

You can thicken cheeseburger soup by adding a roux made from butter and flour before pouring in the broth. Another quick option is mixing cornstarch with cold milk and stirring it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired creaminess.

Can you freeze cheeseburger soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the milk and cheese. Dairy tends to separate when frozen, so add those fresh when reheating. Store the cooled soup in airtight containers for up to two months.

What cheese works best for cheeseburger soup?

Sharp cheddar is classic because it melts smoothly and adds rich flavor. You can mix in Velveeta for extra creaminess or use pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Can I make cheeseburger soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer everything except the cheese and milk to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, stir in the dairy and cheese near the end, and you’ll have a creamy, easy cheeseburger soup ready to serve.

What sides go well with cheeseburger soup?

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a crisp green salad. For a fun twist, serve it with burger toppings like pickles or toasted buns on the side.