Oh my gosh, have you ever had one of those days where only the coziest, most comforting soup will do? That’s exactly when I whip up my cheeseburger soup recipe. Picture this: all the flavors of your favorite juicy cheeseburger – the melty cheddar, the tangy ketchup and mustard, that savory beef – but in a big, steamy bowl you can cradle in your hands. My kids go crazy for it every time, and honestly, so do I! It’s become our go-to after soccer games or on chilly evenings when we need a little edible hug. The best part? It comes together in about the same time it takes to actually grill burgers, but somehow feels even more satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup

Trust me, this isn’t just any soup – it’s a big, cozy hug in a bowl! Here’s why it’ll become your new favorite:

Creamy, dreamy texture that’s neither too thick nor too thin (just right for dunking bread!)
Ready in 35 minutes flat – perfect for crazy weeknights
Kids actually beg for seconds (mine fight over the last spoonful)
Tastes exactly like biting into a cheeseburger, but way less messy
Leftovers taste even better the next day (if you’re lucky enough to have any)

Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy bowl of deliciousness – I promise it’s all simple stuff you probably already have in your kitchen! The magic happens when these humble ingredients come together:

1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 works great – enough fat for flavor without being greasy)
1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white both work – I sometimes cheat with frozen pre-diced)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder in a pinch)
3 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth works too if that’s what you’ve got)
2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium russets – leave skins on for extra texture!)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (the sharper the better for that classic burger taste)
1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half if you’re feeling fancy)
1/4 cup ketchup (I use Heinz – no substitutes here!)
1 tbsp yellow mustard (the classic burger mustard – don’t skip it!)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (that secret umami punch)
Salt and pepper to taste (I’m generous with both)

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Okay, let’s get cooking! This soup comes together so easily – just follow these simple steps and you’ll have burger-flavored magic in no time. I’ll walk you through each stage so you don’t miss any of those delicious details.

Browning the Beef

First things first – grab your favorite soup pot (I use my trusty Dutch oven) and heat it over medium heat. Crumble in that pound of ground beef like you’re sprinkling happiness into the pot. Let it sizzle away, breaking it up with your wooden spoon until it’s nicely browned – about 5 minutes should do it. Oh! Here’s my pro tip: tilt the pot sideways and spoon out any excess grease (about 2 tablespoons worth) so your soup isn’t too oily. But don’t toss it all – we want some of that beefy goodness!

Simmering the Soup

Now toss in your diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until they smell amazing and turn translucent – about 3 minutes. Pour in your chicken broth and add those potato cubes. Bring everything to a lively boil, then dial it back to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and let it bubble away until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Check them – they should be soft but not falling apart. This is when your kitchen will start smelling like pure comfort!

Adding Creaminess

Time for the fun part! Reduce the heat to low and stir in your milk, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Now sprinkle in that shredded cheddar gradually – I do it in about 4 batches, stirring constantly until each addition melts completely before adding more. This patience prevents clumpy cheese disasters! Keep stirring until your soup turns gloriously creamy and orange. Taste it (careful, it’s hot!) and season with salt and pepper until it sings. That’s it – you’ve just made cheeseburger soup!

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

Want to take your cheeseburger soup from good to “oh my gosh, can I have the recipe?” status? Here are my tried-and-true secrets:

Cheese matters: Sharp cheddar gives that classic burger punch – mild cheese just disappears!
Low and slow: Add cheese gradually over low heat to prevent that dreaded stringy texture.
Potato perfection: Dice them small (1/2-inch cubes) so they cook evenly with the beef.
Garnish game: Top with crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheese, or fresh chives – it’s all about those burger toppings!
Taste as you go: Need more tang? Add another squeeze of mustard. More richness? A pat of butter does wonders.

Cheeseburger Soup Variations

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! Try ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. Sneak in diced carrots or celery with the onions if you want extra veggies. Feeling bold? Add pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce – it gives that perfect burger-joint kick!

Serving Suggestions

Oh, the fun part – dressing up your cheeseburger soup just like you would a real burger! I always serve mine with thick slices of crusty bread for dunking (garlic bread takes it over the top). For toppings, think burger bar: extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, diced pickles, even a dollop of sour cream. A simple green salad with ranch dressing makes the perfect fresh side – just like fries and a burger! For a salad option, check out this perfect Cobb salad.

Storing and Reheating Cheeseburger Soup

Here’s the good news – this soup keeps like a dream! Let it cool completely, then store airtight in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, go low and slow – medium heat with frequent stirring keeps the cheese smooth. For longer storage, freeze portions for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently with a splash of broth to restore that creamy texture.

Cheeseburger Soup Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and vary based on ingredients used. Per serving (about 1 bowl): 380 calories, 24g protein, 25g carbs, and 22g fat. It’s hearty enough to fill you up but won’t weigh you down – comfort food at its best!

Common Questions About Cheeseburger Soup

I get asked about this recipe all the time – here are the answers to the most common cheeseburger soup mysteries!

Can I use plant-based beef? Absolutely! I’ve tested this with all sorts of meat alternatives, and they work great. Just brown it like regular beef – the seasonings and cheese will still give you that classic burger flavor. My vegetarian friends rave about this version.

How long does cheeseburger soup last in the fridge? About 4 days in an airtight container. The potatoes might soak up some liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating. Honestly though? Mine never lasts that long – it’s too good!

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup? You bet! Freeze for 2-3 months. The texture changes slightly (potatoes get softer), but the flavor stays amazing. Pro tip: freeze in individual portions for quick lunches.

What if my soup is too thick? Easy fix! Just stir in extra broth or milk until it reaches your perfect consistency. I like mine hearty enough to stand a spoon in, but you do you.

Final Thoughts

Give this cheeseburger soup a try – it’s pure comfort in a bowl! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Tag me if you share it – happy cooking! For more comforting beef dishes, check out this slow-cooked beef stew.

35-Minute Cheeseburger Soup That Will Blow Your Mind

Print Recipe

A creamy and hearty soup with the flavors of a classic cheeseburger.

Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a pot over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
Stir in broth and potatoes, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, simmer until potatoes are tender.
Add cheese, milk, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Stir until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for less grease.
Add bacon bits for extra flavor.
Top with extra cheese if desired.

Author: Janet D. Evans
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 380
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: cheeseburger soup, comfort food, easy dinner