Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty and delicious dish that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a comforting, warming soup. It’s loaded with ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, making it a perfect meal for the whole family. Follow this simple recipe to make a pot of creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups diced potatoes, peeled if desired
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- Pickles, diced tomatoes, and additional shredded cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring to combine.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and the can of diced tomatoes (with the juices) to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Make the Soup Creamy
- If using flour for thickening, whisk the flour with a small amount of broth or water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the soup.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the soup.
- Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Add the sour cream, stirring to fully incorporate it into the soup.
- Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and heat through.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with diced pickles, diced tomatoes, and additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, rolls, or your favorite sides.
Cook’s Notes
- Cheese: For the best texture, shred the cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which may not melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.
- Broth: Chicken broth will give a lighter flavor, while beef broth will add a richer taste.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.
Variations
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the soup for a smoky, bacon-flavored twist.
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup
Replace the diced potatoes with cauliflower florets to make a low-carb version of this soup.
Loaded Cheeseburger Soup
Top each bowl with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded baked potato-inspired twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with cheeseburger soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, rolls, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with a side of pickles or chips for a true cheeseburger experience.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any melting cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting, delicious meal that captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a bowl. It’s perfect for any time of year and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Serve it with your favorite garnishes and sides for a meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a cold night or a hearty dish to satisfy your cravings, this cheeseburger soup is sure to hit the spot!
