Cheeseburger Soup!

Craving comfort food with a twist? This Cheeseburger Soup combines the savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth of a hearty soup. It’s a perfect blend of rich ground beef, creamy cheddar, and tender vegetables that will warm your soul.

Every spoonful is packed with satisfying flavors, from the savory broth to the creamy melted cheese and tender potatoes. It’s a delicious way to elevate your typical soup night and satisfy everyone at the table.

Customize with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon bits or extra cheese for added indulgence. This soup is easy to prepare and sure to become a go-to family favorite.

Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients: A Flavorful Harmony

Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, ground beef brings a robust, meaty base that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the soup.

Onion & Garlic: These aromatic essentials infuse the broth with a rich depth, enhancing every spoonful with a savory warmth.

Potatoes: Tender and hearty, diced potatoes add body to the soup, balancing the richness with their soft, comforting texture.

Cheddar Cheese: The creamy, melty cheddar lends that iconic cheeseburger essence, making each bite irresistibly smooth and indulgent.

Beef Broth: A flavorful foundation, it ties together the rich, savory notes of the soup, creating a comforting base that highlights the other ingredients.

Cheeseburger Soup Recipe: Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs

Recipe Tips

1. Achieve the Perfect Creaminess: To ensure your Cheeseburger Soup has a luxuriously creamy texture, be sure to use whole milk or even a splash of heavy cream. This will make the soup rich and smooth, blending perfectly with the melted cheddar. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute with reduced-fat milk, but remember that this might affect the creaminess slightly. Stir the milk in gradually to prevent curdling, and maintain a low simmer to avoid separation.
2. Customize Your Veggies: While carrots, celery, and potatoes create a great balance in this soup, feel free to mix it up with other vegetables. Consider adding corn for a touch of sweetness or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor. These additions can complement the savory ground beef and create a heartier soup. Just ensure any extra vegetables are diced small for even cooking and to maintain the soup’s consistency.
3. Enhance with Toppings: To take this Cheeseburger Soup to the next level, use toppings to add texture and flavor. Crispy bacon bits provide a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a hint of freshness. A dollop of sour cream can also balance the richness of the soup. Play around with combinations to find your favorite twist!

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup

1. Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Serve your Cheeseburger Soup alongside a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast. The crispy edges of the bread contrast beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup, making it perfect for dipping. It’s a great way to soak up every bit of that delicious broth, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
2. Simple Garden Salad: A light, fresh garden salad complements the richness of Cheeseburger Soup. Toss together mixed greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The bright flavors and crisp texture of the salad offer a refreshing counterbalance to the hearty, cheesy soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
3. French Fries or Potato Wedges: Why not lean into the burger theme? Serve the soup with a side of crispy French fries or oven-baked potato wedges. They make for a fun and playful side dish, giving you the full cheeseburger experience, but in soup form. It’s a great option for family meals or casual gatherings.

FAQ

1. Can I make Cheeseburger Soup in advance?
   Yes, Cheeseburger Soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it slowly over low heat to maintain its creamy consistency. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup if it thickens.
2. Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
   While you can freeze Cheeseburger Soup, it’s important to note that the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content. Freeze it without adding the milk and cheese; then, when reheating, stir in these ingredients for a fresher texture.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a great lighter alternative to beef in this recipe. It will still provide a hearty base while reducing the overall fat content. Just make sure to season the turkey well to maintain the depth of flavor.
4. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Cheeseburger Soup is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free varieties. Always check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients to be sure. For a thicker consistency, use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch instead of flour.

Cheeseburger Soup: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs

Recipe Tips

1. Choose the Right Cheese: For the creamiest, most flavorful Cheeseburger Soup, opt for freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the soup. A sharp cheddar works best, adding a rich, tangy depth to the soup that complements the savory beef. Be sure to stir the cheese in gradually over low heat, allowing it to melt completely without clumping. This ensures a smooth and velvety texture throughout the soup.
2. Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Potatoes are key to adding body and heartiness to this soup, but they can easily become too soft if overcooked. When simmering, check the potatoes after 15 minutes to ensure they’re tender yet still hold their shape. Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy, altering the soup’s consistency. If you want a thicker soup, you can use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese, creating a thicker, creamier texture without losing the potato chunks.
3. Layer the Flavors: Building layers of flavor is essential for the best soup. Browning the ground beef before adding other ingredients enhances its flavor and creates a savory base. Sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in the same pot ensures that those flavors meld beautifully. Adding Worcestershire sauce to the broth brings an umami richness, making the soup taste like a true cheeseburger. Don’t skip this step—each layer adds depth to the final dish!

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup

1. Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing Cheeseburger Soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a nostalgic and satisfying meal. The buttery, crispy bread and melty cheese perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of the soup. Dip the sandwich into the soup for an indulgent bite, combining cheesy goodness with creamy soup.
2. Side of Fresh Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinegar-based dressing balances out the richness of the soup. The crunchy texture and refreshing taste of the coleslaw provide a nice contrast, making each spoonful of soup feel lighter. It’s a great way to add some freshness to the meal.
3. Oven-Baked Potato Wedges: For a true burger-inspired twist, serve the soup with oven-baked potato wedges. Season them with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor. The crispy, golden wedges are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, adding a fun element to the meal.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
   Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as a substitute for ground beef. While these options are leaner, they will still absorb the rich flavors of the soup. Just be sure to season them well for the best taste.
2. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
   If your soup is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it by mashing some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. Another option is to create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
   Absolutely! Use a non-dairy milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk as a replacement for regular milk, and choose a dairy-free cheese that melts well. These swaps will still give you a creamy texture while making the soup suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
4. How long does Cheeseburger Soup last in the fridge?
   Cheeseburger Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the cheese remains smooth and the soup heats evenly.