The Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food, cheeseburger soup is one dish you absolutely must try. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but in the form of a warm, hearty soup. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a delicious bowl of comfort, this cheeseburger soup recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Stick with us through this entire article to learn how to make the perfect cheeseburger soup and discover tips to elevate your dish to restaurant-quality status!

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What Is Cheeseburger Soup?

Cheeseburger soup is exactly what it sounds like: a savory, rich, and creamy soup that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, spoonable meal. It features ground beef, cheese, potatoes, and often includes ingredients like onions, carrots, and celery. The soup takes all the essential components of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a comforting bowl of soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty meal on a cold day.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

To make the best cheeseburger soup, you’ll need a list of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you begin:

• Ground beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version).
• Potatoes: 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, diced into small cubes.
• Onions: 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
• Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced.
• Celery: 2 ribs of celery, finely chopped.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.
• Cream cheese: 4 ounces of cream cheese for added creaminess.
• Chicken broth: 4 cups of chicken broth (you can also use beef broth for a richer flavor).
• Heavy cream: 1 cup of heavy cream or whole milk for a creamy texture.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons of butter for sautéing the vegetables.
• Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Dill pickles: Optional but adds a unique cheeseburger-like twist.
• Bacon: Optional, for garnish.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Soup

You can customize your cheeseburger soup to your preferences by adding a few extra ingredients for more flavor or texture:

• Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes or even canned tomatoes can be added for a slightly tangy flavor.
• Pickle juice: A tablespoon or two can enhance that classic cheeseburger flavor.
• Mustard: Add a small amount of Dijon or yellow mustard for an extra burst of flavor.
• Paprika: A pinch of smoked or regular paprika can give the soup a slight kick.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth to the beefy flavor.
• Croutons or toasted buns: For serving, to mimic the bun experience of a cheeseburger.

Substitutions and Variations

Cheeseburger soup is quite versatile, and there are several substitutions and variations that you can use to customize the dish to your liking:

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free option.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup instead of regular flour.
• Low-carb: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to make the soup keto-friendly or lower in carbs.
• Cheese choices: While cheddar is the most common cheese used, you can experiment with other varieties like pepper jack for some heat, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like your soup with a bit of a kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping your onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and shred your cheese so everything is ready to go.
2. Cook the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter and add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
5. Add broth and potatoes: Gradually stir in the chicken broth, making sure to mix it thoroughly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Add the beef and cheese: Stir in the cooked ground beef, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
8. Finish with cream: Stir in the heavy cream or milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
9. Garnish and serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, bacon crumbles, or chopped dill pickles if desired.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking cheeseburger soup is simple when you follow the right steps. Here’s a breakdown of how to cook this delicious dish:

1. Start by browning the beef: Cooking the ground beef first helps develop its flavor. Be sure to drain the fat to avoid a greasy soup.
2. Sauté the veggies: This step builds the base flavor of the soup. Make sure to soften the vegetables thoroughly so they blend into the soup well.
3. Make the roux: Flour helps to thicken the soup, so cook it briefly to ensure the final result is rich and creamy.
4. Simmer and cook the potatoes: Adding the potatoes and broth together ensures they become soft and tender while absorbing all the flavors of the soup.
5. Incorporate the cheese and cream: The cheese and cream bring the cheeseburger flavor to life, so be sure to stir them in gently until fully melted and smooth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the beef: Failing to drain excess fat can result in a greasy soup.
• Skipping the roux: The flour mixture thickens the soup. If you skip this step, you’ll end up with a thin soup.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Simmer the soup just until the potatoes are tender to avoid them becoming mushy.
• Adding cheese too early: Adding cheese while the soup is boiling can cause it to curdle. Make sure the heat is low and the soup is off the boil before adding cheese.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To enhance the experience of your cheeseburger soup, consider how you serve and present it:

• Bread bowls: Hollow out small round loaves of bread and serve the soup inside for a fun presentation.
• Garnishes: Top the soup with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or freshly chopped green onions.
• Croutons or bun pieces: Add homemade croutons or toasted chunks of hamburger buns for a cheeseburger-inspired garnish.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup can be served as a standalone dish, or alongside some complementary sides:

• Crusty bread: A slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy soup.
• Side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• French fries: Since this is cheeseburger soup, pairing it with a side of crispy fries feels fitting.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Soup

• Serve in mason jars for a rustic feel.
• Garnish with a small slider or mini cheeseburger on the side for a fun and creative touch.
• Use a piping bag to drizzle sour cream over the top in a zigzag pattern for a professional look.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and high-quality ground beef make a big difference in flavor.
• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or add extra cheese. If it’s too thick, stir in a bit more broth or cream.
• Double the recipe: This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick meal on busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?
Yes! Cheeseburger soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.

What can I use instead of potatoes?
Cauliflower is a great low-carb substitute for potatoes and works well in this soup.

Can I make cheeseburger soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What type of cheese works best for cheeseburger soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack or a smoky gouda.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger soup is a delicious and comforting meal that brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger and the warming qualities of soup. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Try this cheeseburger soup recipe today and enjoy a new twist on a classic dish!

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