This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for busy nights! With ground beef, creamy cheese, and tasty veggies, it brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm bowl.
I love how quick it is to make—just sauté, stir, and let it simmer. Plus, it’s a hit with the family. Who doesn’t love a cozy soup for dinner? 🍔🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The heart of this soup, ground beef gives it that classic cheeseburger taste. For a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking to go vegetarian.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or even pepper jack for some heat! Just make sure it shreds easily to melt well into the soup.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness. You can swap them for sweet potatoes for a unique twist or use frozen hash browns for convenience on busy nights.
Milk & Cream: I often use half-and-half for creaminess, but you can also go with less fat milk if you want to lighten it up. Dairy-free options like almond or oat milk can work too—just adjust the quantity as needed!
How Do I Ensure My Soup is Creamy and Not Curdled?
Adding dairy like milk and cream can sometimes lead to curdling if not done carefully. Here’s how to keep your soup creamy:
- Always add dairy ingredients after taking the soup off the heat to prevent boiling.
- Gradually pour in the milk and cream while stirring continuously to help incorporate it smoothly.
- If you’re nervous about curdling, you can temper the dairy by mixing a small amount of hot soup into the cream first, and then slowly mixing it back into the pot.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a luscious, satisfying cheeseburger soup that everyone will love!
Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy cheeseburger soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect dinner option for busy nights! In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and smell delicious.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink, which takes about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some off.
3. Add Veggies:
Stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery into the pot. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps soften the vegetables and enhances the flavors.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the beef broth, and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. Season the Soup:
Add the mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything to ensure the flavors meld well together.
6. Add Dairy:
Turn the heat down to medium-low. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, stirring continuously to help everything blend smoothly and prevent curdling.
7. Incorporate Cheese:
Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the soup and becomes wonderfully creamy and smooth.
8. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it’s thicker than you like, simply add a bit more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with optional green onions or crispy bacon bits for an extra touch. Enjoy your comforting cheeseburger soup!
FAQ for Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as it may need a little extra time to brown compared to ground beef.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and include more veggies like mushrooms or additional beans for protein!
Can I Freeze Leftover Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove.
What Can I Serve with Cheeseburger Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun crunch!