There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of cheeseburger soup on a chilly evening. I still remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s house. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavors reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger, this soup quickly became a favorite comfort food of mine. It’s a delightful dish that brings together hearty ingredients and warm spices, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, which is always a bonus when you’re juggling a busy schedule.
This creamy cheeseburger soup is a comforting blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rich cheddar cheese. The texture hits a sweet spot between hearty and creamy, making every spoonful feel like a treat. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or prepping a meal for the family, this dish fits the bill perfectly for both. It’s versatile too, allowing you to serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. Now, let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe collection.
Why you’ll love this
- It’s a cozy and filling meal that warms you up.
- Ready in about 30 minutes, so you can enjoy it quickly.
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably have on hand.
- One-pot meal means fewer dishes to clean.
- Ideal for meal preps and freezes well for later.
“The perfect blend of comfort and flavor!”
Step-by-step overview
Making cheeseburger soup is straightforward. Start by cooking the ground beef and onion in olive oil until browned. Then, add beef broth, diced potatoes, and sliced carrots. Let it simmer until the veggies are tender. Finally, stir in milk and shredded cheddar to create a creamy soup, seasoning it to taste before serving warm.
Key ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground Beef: Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a pepper jack for added spice.
- Vegetables: You can add or swap vegetables like corn or bell peppers according to your taste preference.
- Milk: Use a dairy-free alternative if desired, keeping the soup creamy with options like almond or oat milk.
Cooking method
This cheeseburger soup is incredibly easy to prepare, fitting nicely into a busy week’s schedule.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned.
- Stir in the beef broth, potatoes, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the milk and cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Pro Tip: Cook the beef until it’s well-browned; this enhances the flavor of the soup significantly.
To know it’s ready, look for the cheese to melt smoothly into the broth and for the carrots and potatoes to reach that tender stage where a fork glides through effortlessly.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process to match your palate.
Serving suggestions
This cheeseburger soup can be served in various delightful ways. You can enjoy it straight from the pot with a sprinkle of additional cheese on top. For a great pairing, serve it with a slice of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some croutons for added crunch.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This soup will last for about three to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, it freezes well too, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a future meal. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your cheeseburger soup turns out dry, add a bit more broth or milk to loosen it. If it’s overly salty, a little sugar can help balance the flavor. For a thinner consistency, you can stir in some extra broth until it reaches your desired thickness. If you notice the cheese clumping, try whisking it gently as you reheat the soup.
Recipe variations
Feel free to enhance your cheeseburger soup with different flavors! Adding spices like smoked paprika or even a dash of hot sauce can introduce a new level of flavor. If you’d like a more garden-fresh taste, toss in some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. For a delightful twist, consider adding some crispy bacon bits on top before serving.
Common questions
What’s the best way to reheat cheeseburger soup?
To reheat cheeseburger soup, place it in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it in the microwave. Just make sure to cover it to prevent splatters, stirring occasionally for even heat distribution.
Can I make this cheeseburger soup vegetarian?
Yes! To create a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavor will still be delicious with the addition of cheese and vegetables.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a kick to your cheeseburger soup, include diced jalapeños or add chopped chili powder during cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side to let each person adjust the heat to their liking.
Is it gluten-free?
This cheeseburger soup is gluten-free as long as the beef broth you use is gluten-free. Double-check the labels if you are sensitive to gluten, ensuring all products used fit your dietary needs.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onion first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Allow it to simmer on low for 6-8 hours for deeply developed flavors. Add cheese when ready to serve.
This hearty, comforting cheeseburger soup not only satisfies your cravings but also brings people together, making any gathering feel warmer and friendlier.
Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned.
- Stir in the beef broth, potatoes, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the milk and cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.