Oh, friends, there’s nothing quite like a big, warm bowl of cheeseburger soup on a chilly evening, is there? It’s a dish that wraps you in a comforting hug, reminding you of backyard barbecues and cozy family dinners. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a delightful journey of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and that irresistible cheesy goodness we all adore. It’s truly a classic comfort food elevated to a magical, soul-warming experience right in your own kitchen.
My earliest memories of cooking involve my grandma’s kitchen, where every simmer and stir was a lesson in love. While her specialty was always sweet treats, she taught me the heart of home cooking – how simple ingredients, combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary. That same spirit of warmth and nurturing is exactly what I pour into recipes like this, bringing a touch of that nostalgic feeling to your table.
This creamy cheeseburger soup is not only incredibly satisfying and wonderfully family-friendly, but it also comes together with surprising ease, making it a perfect candidate for a weeknight meal. My top tip for any home cook is to always taste as you go; a little adjustment here and there can transform a good dish into a truly unforgettable one!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To create this delightful soup, you’ll be gathering some truly heartwarming ingredients that promise a symphony of flavors and textures. We’re talking rich ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and, of course, a glorious blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses that truly defines our creamy cheeseburger soup. You’ll find the complete list and precise measurements waiting for you in the recipe card below, ready to guide your culinary adventure.
How to Make cheeseburger soup
Whipping up this incredible cheeseburger soup starts with browning the ground beef and sautéing your aromatic vegetables until they’re tender and fragrant. Then, we build the beautiful broth, adding diced potatoes and tomatoes, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly. Finally, we stir in the creamy half-and-half and a generous helping of cheese to create that irresistible, velvety texture that makes this cheeseburger soup so utterly divine.
Hearty Classic Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain off any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Add olive oil to the same pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the diced potatoes and undrained diced tomatoes to the pot. Return the cooked ground beef. Stir everything together.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the half-and-half (or milk), Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer, but do not boil.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. Do not boil the soup after adding the cheese, as it can cause it to separate.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, diced pickles, green onions, and extra shredded cheese, if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This cheeseburger soup
Creating a truly memorable cheeseburger soup is all about those little touches that elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Don’t be shy with your seasonings; a pinch more salt or pepper can really bring out the best in the ingredients.
My Secret Trick: I always crisp up a few extra strips of bacon to crumble over individual servings just before serving. That extra crunch and smoky flavor take this hearty soup to a whole new level of deliciousness, making each spoonful an absolute delight.
Remember to shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup a little gritty. Freshly shredded cheese melts so much more smoothly, giving your cheeseburger soup that perfect, creamy consistency we all crave.
Don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the potatoes to become perfectly tender and the flavors to fully meld is key to a truly rich and robust soup. A patient simmer ensures every ingredient shines in this comforting cheeseburger soup.
Fun Variations for cheeseburger soup
One of the joys of cooking at home is playing with flavors and making a recipe truly your own! This cheeseburger soup is wonderfully adaptable, and I love encouraging you to get creative.
Spice It Up!
For those who love a bit of a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a small, finely diced jalapeño along with the other vegetables. My friend, who adores all things spicy, always asks me to include a good pinch of red pepper flakes in her bowl!
Veggie Boost
Want to sneak in more goodness? Feel free to add some diced bell peppers (any color works beautifully!) or even a handful of frozen corn during the last 10 minutes of simmering. It adds extra texture and vibrant color to your hearty bowl of soup.
A Different Kind of Cheese
While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses. A touch of smoked gouda could add a lovely depth, or for a sharper tang, a little extra sharp cheddar works wonders. My sister loves when I use a blend that includes a touch of pepper jack for a mild, zesty twist in this fantastic cheeseburger soup.
What to Serve With cheeseburger soup
This hearty cheeseburger soup is quite the meal on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can make it an even more delightful experience. I often find myself craving something to scoop up every last drop!
I love serving it with a crusty baguette or some warm, buttered rolls, perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness. It’s just like my grandmother used to say: “Every good soup deserves a good dipping companion!” A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is also a wonderful fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. For an extra touch of indulgence, a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a dollop of sour cream makes this already amazing cheeseburger soup truly irresistible.
How to Store cheeseburger soup
Keeping your delicious cheeseburger soup fresh so you can enjoy it again is wonderfully easy! It’s one of those recipes that often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Refrigerator Storage
Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or half-and-half to reach your desired consistency. I always recommend an airtight container to prevent any outside flavors from seeping in and to keep the cheeseburger soup as fresh as possible.
Freezer Tips
Yes, you can freeze this delightful cheeseburger soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Just like with refrigeration, you might need to add a touch of liquid when warming it up to bring back its original creamy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
While we revel in the comforting indulgence of this creamy cheeseburger soup, it’s lovely to know it also brings some wholesome goodness to the table. Packed with protein from the ground beef and a good source of vitamins and fiber from the variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This hearty soup truly embodies my belief that a dish can be both delicious and provide a good balance of ingredients.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make this cheeseburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheeseburger soup is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen and meld even further, making it taste even more delicious upon reheating.
Faq 2
What kind of ground beef is best for cheeseburger soup?
I recommend using lean ground beef (around 85-90% lean) to avoid excessive grease. If you use a higher fat content, just be sure to thoroughly drain any excess fat after browning to keep your cheeseburger soup from being oily.
Faq 3
Can I add other vegetables to my cheeseburger soup?
Of course! This recipe is very forgiving. Diced bell peppers, corn, or even a handful of fresh spinach added towards the end would be delightful additions. Feel free to customize your cheeseburger soup to your family’s preferences!
Faq 4
How can I make this cheeseburger soup spicier?
To add a kick, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and onions, or add a diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) at the same time as the other vegetables. A dash of your favorite hot sauce at the table also works wonders with this comforting cheeseburger soup.
Conclusion
There you have it, my dear friends—a recipe for a cheeseburger soup that promises to become a cherished favorite in your home. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create new memories, all warmed by the comforting embrace of homemade goodness. I truly hope you’ll whisk out your biggest pot, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this hearty soup fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of love. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!
