Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl that tastes just like your favorite burger but in soup form, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is pure magic. Thick, cheesy, and loaded with all the familiar flavors—crispy bacon, savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheddar broth—it’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on any day. This soup blends the hearty satisfaction of a cheeseburger with the ease of a one-pot meal, making it a delicious crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is simple and straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role. From the crispy bacon that adds smoky depth to the creamy Velveeta cheddar that delivers that luscious cheesy goodness, the combination creates a well-balanced, flavorful soup that’s as comforting as it is exciting.

• Bacon (6 slices): Adds a smoky crunch that elevates every spoonful.
• Onion (1, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and aroma to the base.
• Carrot (1, chopped): Offers a gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery (2 ribs, chopped): Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Infuses a bright and savory herbal note.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts the onion flavor for pairing with fresh bits.
• Ground paprika (½ teaspoon): Lends a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, divided): Brings out all the delicious flavors naturally.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds fresh pungency and warmth.
• Lean ground beef (1 pound): Provides rich, meaty substance for a true cheeseburger vibe.
• Yukon gold potatoes (4, peeled and chopped): Give a creamy texture and filling bulk.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the umami complexity wonderfully.
• Mustard (1½ tablespoons): Brings just the right touch of tangy brightness.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups plus more if needed): Creates a flavorful, savory base that isn’t too salty.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create a silky roux.
• All-purpose flour (⅓ cup): Thickens the soup to a perfect creamy consistency.
• Milk (1½ cups): Keeps the broth smooth and velvety without heaviness.
• Shredded Velveeta cheddar cheese (2 cups plus more for topping): Melts flawlessly for that iconic cheesy taste.
• Chopped green onion (for topping): Adds a fresh, crisp bite and bright color contrast.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon

Begin by cooking the bacon slices in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until they’re deliciously crispy. This step lays the smoky groundwork for the whole soup, and the rendered bacon fat will help cook the veggies and beef with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Bacon

Remove the bacon strips and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble them into bite-sized pieces that will become your perfect crunchy garnish later.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Seasonings

Into the bacon fat, toss the chopped onion, carrot, celery, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and half of the salt. Cook this mixture until it softens and starts to smell amazing, creating a flavorful base full of texture and aroma.

Step 4: Add Fresh Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, ensuring that the garlic isn’t overpowering but contributes warmth and depth.

Step 5: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your lean ground beef to the pot and cook it until it’s fully browned and crumbly, stirring to break it apart. Then, drain any excess grease to keep the soup balanced and not greasy.

Step 6: Build the Soup Base

Mix in the peeled, chopped Yukon gold potatoes along with Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and chicken broth. These ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful broth that’s the soul of the Cheeseburger Soup Recipe.

Step 7: Simmer the Soup

Bring the entire pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes become tender but still hold their shape, contributing to a pleasing texture.

Step 8: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

While the soup simmers, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat—this will be the start of your creamy cheese sauce that makes this soup unforgettable.

Step 9: Make a Roux

Whisk in the flour to the melted butter and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste known as a roux, which will thicken your soup perfectly.

Step 10: Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to keep everything smooth and lump-free. Continue whisking until this mixture thickens to a creamy sauce consistency—this will give the soup that luscious body.

Step 11: Melt in the Cheese

Stir the shredded Velveeta cheddar cheese into the thickened sauce until it’s completely melted and silky, delivering that unmistakable cheeseburger flavor in every spoonful.

Step 12: Combine Cheese Sauce with Soup

Pour the cheesy mixture back into the Dutch oven with the soup, stirring gently to combine everything into a rich, cohesive soup base.

Step 13: Adjust Consistency

Let the soup sit on low heat for a few more minutes to thicken, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your preferred consistency.

Step 14: Season to Taste

Taste your soup and add the remaining salt or other seasonings as desired. This finishing touch balances the flavors just perfectly.

Step 15: Finish with Toppings

Top each bowl generously with crispy bacon crumbles, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions for freshness and a pop of color.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese not only colors the dish beautifully but also enhances each bite with crunchy freshness and melty cheesiness. Don’t forget those bacon crumbles—they’re essential for that crave-worthy smoky crunch that completes the experience.

Side Dishes

This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery garlic toast, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. A crisp side salad also works great to balance the richness, while pickles or a tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or even inside a toasted sourdough loaf for an impressive presentation. You can also offer toppings buffet-style so everyone can customize their bowls with extra cheese, crispy bacon, or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making those leftovers even more comforting the next day. Just be sure to stir well before reheating to recombine any separated ingredients.

Freezing

You can freeze the Cheeseburger Soup Recipe, but since it contains potatoes and milk, the texture may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To preserve texture, consider slightly undercooking the potatoes when making the soup initially.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and to restore that creamy, silky consistency. If the soup has thickened too much, just add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it back up.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While Velveeta cheddar melts beautifully and gives that classic creamy texture, you can substitute with sharp cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for your own unique flavor twist.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap ground beef and bacon for plant-based alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and adjust seasoning to keep the depth of flavor.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Brown the beef and cook the veggies first, then combine everything except the cheese sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheese sauce near the end to avoid curdling.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?

Simply stir in extra chicken broth or milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. The soup should be creamy but still easy to ladle and enjoy.

How can I make this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe less salty?

Use low-sodium broth as suggested and adjust the added salt carefully. Also, be mindful of the salt content in cheese and bacon brands you choose.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about cozying up with a bowl of Cheeseburger Soup Recipe that tastes like childhood memories and comfort all rolled into one. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavors, this soup is a genuine crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite soup that satisfies every craving with every spoonful.

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