Name: Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 medium white onion, diced; ¾ cup carrots, shredded; ¾ cup celery, diced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces (about 3 cups); 3 cups chicken broth, low sodium; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1½ cups milk, 2%; ¼ cup sour cream, full fat

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 21 reviews

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food on a chilly night, the Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup will hit the spot every single time. It brings together everything you love in a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, savory aromatics, and glorious melted cheese—all in a single, creamy, cozy bowl. This hearty soup not only warms you up but also wraps you in the nostalgic flavors of classic American diner fare, leaving you with pure dinnertime happiness.

Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup so special is how each basic ingredient works together to build layers of flavor and texture, all without fuss. From the rich beefy goodness to the creamy cheddar finish, you’ll find that the ingredients are familiar, affordable, and—best of all—simple to work with at home.

Ground beef: Using 1 pound of ground beef gives the soup heartiness and infuses every spoonful with savory, meaty flavor.
Unsalted butter: Four tablespoons split up for sautéing and building a rich, velvety base without being too salty.
White onion: One medium diced onion adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth to the broth.
Carrots: Three-quarters of a cup, shredded, deliver subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
Celery: Three-quarters of a cup, diced, provide a classic aromatic crunch and balance the flavors beautifully.
Italian seasoning: A tablespoon rounds out the soup with its blend of herbs, adding complexity.
Oregano: Just half a teaspoon lends a punch of earthy flavor that complements both the beef and cheese.
Salt: One teaspoon ensures every ingredient shines while tying together all the flavors.
Black pepper: Half a teaspoon gives a gentle, warming kick.
Russet potatoes: About three cups (from three large potatoes), these become creamy and tender, perfect for soaking up cheesy flavor.
Chicken broth: Three cups of low-sodium broth create a savory, silky soup base.
All-purpose flour: A quarter cup thickens the soup, turning it satisfyingly creamy with no fuss.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Four cups, shredded, are the star of the show, offering the classic cheeseburger bite.
Milk (2%): A cup and a half lends creaminess without being overly rich or heavy.
Sour cream (full fat): A quarter cup delivers tangy, luscious body—just like a dollop on a burger.

How to Make Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large 12-inch frying pan over medium-high heat and thoroughly cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Once cooked through, drain off any excess fat to keep your soup from turning greasy. Set the beef aside; you’ll be adding it back in soon. (Pro tip: Choose a leaner ground beef to make draining even easier!)

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Seasonings

In a large 5-quart pot, melt one tablespoon of the butter over medium-high heat. Add in the diced onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and the veggies become fragrant—this step builds the aromatic foundation for our Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes and Beef

Add the cooked ground beef, diced potatoes, and chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let everything gently simmer together for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the kitchen smells unbelievably inviting.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Meanwhile, in a separate small frying pan, melt the remaining three tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour until the mixture bubbles and turns slightly golden after about 2 minutes. This quick roux will thicken the soup and give it that signature, soul-warming creaminess.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

Whisk the hot roux right into the simmering soup and stir until completely smooth. You’ll notice it starting to thicken up almost immediately, promising that velvety texture that separates a good cheeseburger soup from a great one.

Step 6: Stir in the Cheese

Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring until each handful melts completely. The soup will become extra creamy and rich—as if you just added a slice of cheese directly onto your favorite burger.

Step 7: Finish with Milk and Sour Cream

Pour in the milk and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Once warmed, stir in the sour cream until fully mixed for that silky, luscious finish. Remove from heat, taste for seasoning, and your Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup is ready to ladle into bowls!

How to Serve Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

The right toppings turn this soup into a showstopper! Try a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, a handful of minced chives or scallions, and some crispy bacon crumbles. For a true cheeseburger vibe, add a few diced pickles or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard—it’s not as wild as it sounds, and the flavors genuinely pop.

Side Dishes

Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup shines alongside some fresh, crusty bread for dunking up every last drop. Classic saltine crackers or garlic toast are also perfect choices. If you want something a bit lighter, a simple green salad topped with tomatoes or a tangy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful, food-truck-inspired presentation, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or alongside slider buns for dunking. You could even set up a “soup bar” with bowls of different toppings so everyone can customize their own cheeseburger-inspired bowl. This makes family dinners and casual gatherings even more fun and interactive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup keep beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. As the flavors meld, you’ll find the soup is even better on day two!

Freezing

This soup freezes very well, making it a winner for meal prep days. Portion out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results. (Note: Cheese-based soups may separate a bit when reheated, but a good stir brings everything back together nicely.)

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the soup to a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. You can also microwave individual portions, pausing to stir every minute for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar delivers that classic cheeseburger punch, feel free to experiment with Colby jack, pepper jack, or even a blend. Softer cheeses melt smoothly, but keep the ratios similar for the best rich, cheesy texture.

Is it possible to make Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for the regular flour when making your roux. Check that your broth is gluten-free and you’re good to go with a delicious and creamy gluten-free version.

What’s the best way to make Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup even lighter?

For a lighter take, use lean ground turkey instead of beef, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or swap in sweet potatoes for a different flavor and extra nutrients.

Can I make Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, this soup adapts wonderfully to slow cooking! Brown your ground beef first, then add everything except the milk, cheese, and sour cream to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the dairy at the end, just before serving, for a lusciously creamy finish.

What types of potatoes work best in this soup?

Russet potatoes are the classic choice—they cook up tender without falling apart and help thicken the broth. Yukon Golds would also work for a buttery texture, but avoid waxy potatoes, as they hold their shape too well and may not absorb flavor as nicely.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring everyone around your table together with big smiles, give Recipe for Cheeseburger Soup a try. It’s easy, incredibly satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your new cozy favorites—one taste and you’ll be hooked!