ULTIMATE CHEESEBURGER SOUP RECIPE

I’ll never forget the day my kids declared that they only wanted cheeseburgers for dinner, every single night! While I love a good burger, I knew I needed to find a way to sneak in some veggies. That’s how my journey to create the very best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe began. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing cheeseburger soup you’ll ever make – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Is a Game Changer

Okay, friends, let’s talk soup! Not just any soup, but the Cheeseburger Soup. Seriously, this recipe is a hug in a bowl. It takes all the deliciousness of a juicy cheeseburger – the savory ground beef, the melty cheese, the tangy toppings – and transforms it into a creamy, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. But why this recipe? What makes it the “best”?

First off, it’s incredibly easy. I’m all about recipes that don’t require a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen. This one comes together quickly, using ingredients you probably already have on hand. No fancy techniques or obscure spices here! Secondly, it’s incredibly customizable. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different type of cheese? Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base, and I’ll show you how to make it your own.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious! My family devours this soup every time I make it. Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds (and thirds!). The combination of flavors and textures is just irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of hearty, creamy, and cheesy, with just the right amount of tang to keep you coming back for more. So, are you ready to ditch the boring soups and dive into a bowl of cheeseburger heaven? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• 1 pound ground beef: I prefer lean ground beef (90/10) to minimize grease, but you can use your favorite.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a lovely savory base to the soup.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced: For a touch of sweetness and added nutrients.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: More veggie goodness and a classic soup ingredient.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
• 4 cups beef broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: For a hint of herbaceousness.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat (adjust to your liking).
• 4 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the soup.
• 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The secret to the perfect creamy texture!
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show!
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the soup to perfection.
• Toppings (optional): Cooked bacon, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, your favorite burger toppings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of delicious cheeseburger soup in no time. Don’t worry, I’ll be with you every step of the way!

1. Brown the ground beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain the excess grease: Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. No one wants a greasy soup!
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes: Add the beef broth and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Simmer for 15 minutes: Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8. Make a roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
9. Whisk in the flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is your roux, and it will thicken the soup.
10. Slowly whisk in the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the roux is smooth and there are no lumps.
11. Cook until thickened: Cook the milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
12. Add the cream cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the soup. Stir until melted and smooth. This is what gives the soup that luxurious creaminess!
13. Stir in the cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Be patient; it might take a few minutes for the cheese to fully melt.
14. Season to taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to add a generous pinch of each!
15. Serve and enjoy!: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese for dipping.
• Garnish with chopped bacon, sour cream, green onions, and diced tomatoes for a classic cheeseburger experience.
• Add a dollop of your favorite burger sauce or mustard for extra flavor.

Success Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

Okay, my friend, here’s where I spill the beans on how to make this cheeseburger soup absolutely perfect. These are my golden rules, the tips that guarantee success every single time!

• Don’t skip the roux: The roux is essential for thickening the soup and preventing it from being watery. Make sure to cook it for a full 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
• Use softened cream cheese: This is crucial! Softened cream cheese will melt more easily and evenly into the soup, creating a super smooth and creamy texture. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Add the cheese gradually: Don’t dump all the cheddar cheese in at once! Add it in handfuls, stirring constantly, to ensure that it melts smoothly and doesn’t clump together.
• Don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese: Boiling the soup after adding the cheese can cause it to separate and become grainy. Keep the heat low and stir gently.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning: This is so important! Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Get Creative with Toppings: Toppings are where you can really customize this soup! Think about all your favorite cheeseburger fixings: crispy bacon, chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, or even a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce. Let your imagination run wild!

Variations and Add-Ins

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so versatile! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add more veggies: Sauté diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onions, carrots, and celery for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use different types of cheese: Try using a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon is a fantastic addition to this soup, both as an ingredient and as a topping.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for extra heat.
• Add potatoes: For an even heartier soup, add diced potatoes to the pot along with the beef broth and diced tomatoes. You might also want to try my CREAMY POTATO SOUP sometime!
• Make it a loaded baked potato soup: Incorporate toppings traditionally found on loaded baked potatoes, like sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives. This reminds me of my Crack Potato Soup, which you might also enjoy!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This cheeseburger soup is perfect for making ahead of time! The flavors actually meld together even more as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

• Make-ahead: Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cheese. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat, then add the cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every 30 seconds to prevent it from splattering.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly after thawing. The cheese can sometimes become a bit grainy. If you do freeze it, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Consider omitting the cheese if you plan to freeze the soup, and then add it in after thawing and reheating.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it’s also great served with a side dish or two. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Crusty bread or rolls: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic combination!
• Side salad: A light and refreshing salad balances out the richness of the soup.
• Coleslaw: Adds a tangy and crunchy element.

Other Soups You Might Like

If you’re a soup fanatic like me, you’ll love exploring other delicious soup recipes. Have you tried my creamy CREAMY TORTELLINI SOUP? It’s another easy and satisfying option. Or maybe you’re in the mood for something more traditional like CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP. And for a truly comforting and flavorful experience, don’t miss my LASAGNA SOUP. There’s a soup for every mood and occasion!

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friend! My ultimate guide to making the Best Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. I hope you give this recipe a try and that it becomes a new family favorite. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. And most importantly, savor every delicious bite! Happy cooking!