When the winter wind starts to howl, nothing beats a warm bowl of soup. You want something hearty and filling for your hungry family. This Easy Cheeseburger Soup is the answer to your cozy dinner cravings.
It tastes just like your favorite burger but in a creamy, spoonable form. Your kids will love the cheesy flavor and tender potatoes. It is a simple way to bring everyone to the table tonight.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy weeknight dinners. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. You can have a complete, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.
It is incredibly budget-friendly because it uses ground beef and potatoes. The creamy cheddar base makes it feel like a special treat. This is the ultimate comfort food for a snowy evening at home.
How It Comes Together
Making this soup is very straightforward and beginner-friendly. You will start by browning the beef and sautéing fresh vegetables. The potatoes simmer right in the broth to save you time.
A quick roux helps thicken the soup to a perfectly creamy consistency. Even if you are new to cooking, you can master this method easily. Just follow the steps and watch the magic happen in your pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh vegetables and sharp cheddar cheese make all the difference here.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3/4 cup chopped onion
- 3/4 cup shredded carrots
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through.
- Drain the fat and set the cooked meat aside for later.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, celery, basil, and parsley until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, and the cooked beef back into the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 10-12 minutes.
- In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and whisk in flour.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then stir this into the soup pot.
- Boil gently for 2 minutes until thickened, then stir in cheese until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and sour cream before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this soup in big bowls with a crusty piece of bread. It is perfect for dipping into the cheesy broth. You can even top it with extra cheese or crumbled bacon.
For a fun twist, serve it with a side of pickles. It really brings out that classic cheeseburger flavor. Gather your family, light a candle, and enjoy this soul-warming meal together.
Keep It Fresh
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store any extra soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three to four days.
When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove. Use low heat to keep the cheese sauce from separating. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of milk.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not skip draining the beef to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Cut your potatoes into uniform small cubes so they cook evenly.
- Use sharp cheddar for the boldest cheese flavor in every bite.
- Avoid boiling the soup after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.
- For a time-saver, prep your veggies the night before.
- Always whisk your roux constantly to avoid any flour lumps.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon on top for a bacon cheeseburger version.
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Stir in some chopped spinach at the end for extra greens.
- Use pepper jack cheese if you want a spicy kick.
Common Questions
Can I freeze this soup?
I do not recommend freezing this soup. Dairy and potatoes often change texture when frozen and thawed. It is best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
What are the best potatoes to use?
Russet potatoes work great because they become soft and tender. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a wonderful choice for a buttery texture. Just make sure to peel them first!
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It has all the flavors of a burger that kids love. It is a great way to get them to eat vegetables like carrots and celery.
I hope this Easy Cheeseburger Soup brings warmth to your home this winter. It is a simple joy to share a hearty meal with the people you love. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Easy Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3/4 cup chopped onion
- 3/4 cup shredded carrots
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter , divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1/4 cup all -purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through; drain fat and set meat aside.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the onion, carrots, celery, basil, and parsley until vegetables are tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, and the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- In a separate small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk the milk into the roux until smooth, then stir this mixture into the soup pot.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes while stirring until the liquid thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, and sour cream before serving.
