Name: Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485846H5M37S
Total time: PT-485846H5M37S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream or milk; 2 tablespoons tomato paste or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup combines the best parts of a cheeseburger with the ease of a one-pot meal. It’s packed with protein and veggies, easy to make, and perfect for cold days or casual dinners. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your taste preferences and family favorites.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrots, diced
Celery, diced
Potatoes, peeled and diced
Beef broth
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Heavy cream or milk
Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Olive oil or butter

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess fat if necessary.
Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are softened.
Stir in diced potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste or diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Lower the heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Stir in heavy cream or milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat gently until the soup is warmed through but not boiling.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with cooking time around 40-50 minutes.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and cheese for a vegan adaptation.
Add pickles or relish for a cheeseburger-style tang.
Incorporate bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Serve with toasted bread or burger buns for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients except cheese and cream in the slow cooker. Add cheese and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Mash some potatoes in the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during cooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free broth and check labels on Worcestershire sauce to ensure gluten-free status.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes great the next day as flavors deepen.

How do I prevent cheese from clumping?

Add cheese gradually off heat and stir continuously until smooth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, peas, or corn work well.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can also use Colby or Monterey Jack.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives.

How long does the soup keep?

Refrigerated leftovers last up to 4 days.

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?

Yes, but dairy-based soups may separate slightly; reheat gently and stir well.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup is a deliciously indulgent and hearty meal that brings the flavors of a cheeseburger into a comforting bowl of soup. Easy to make and family-friendly, it’s a great choice for satisfying cravings and warming up on cooler days.