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If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and bursting with all the flavors you love from a classic cheeseburger, then this Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, cheesy bowl filled with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and that unmistakable cheeseburger vibe that’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a hungry crowd without fuss. Trust me when I say, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together so simply, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made it sooner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to bringing out the rich and hearty flavor in this soup. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, cheeseburger umami, and a little kick to keep things interesting.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that gives this soup its meaty, satisfying base.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a touch of richness and helps soften the onions and garlic beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to every spoonful.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a lovely aromatic warmth that builds flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory foundation for the soup.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds that classic tangy, umami boost that reminds you of your favorite burger joint.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon): Offers a subtle sharpness to brighten up the creamy base.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Lends a smoky undertone that lifts the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicious ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Makes the soup luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The cheesy heart of this recipe that melts perfectly into the broth.
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened: Thickens the soup and adds a tangy richness.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes: Captures the fresh, juicy notes found in a cheeseburger’s toppings.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little spicy kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms or bell peppers: Adds texture and subtle earthiness or sweetness.
- Extra cheddar cheese, shredded: Perfect for sprinkling on top to give it that irresistible cheese pull when served.
- Crispy bacon bits: For a smoky crunch that makes it feel extra special.
- Chopped green onions: Fresh and bright, they add a pop of color and flavor.
- Diced pickles: The secret ingredient that gives the soup that unmistakable classic cheeseburger taste.
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Then add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as you go to get those small, flavorful pieces that melt into the soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
After draining excess grease from the beef, set it aside. In the same pot, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for a few minutes until they release their wonderful aroma and soften just right.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These little add-ins work together to layer savory, tangy, and smoky notes that echo the essence of a juicy cheeseburger inside your pot.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour the beef broth into the pot, then return the browned beef to join the party. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial to blend the flavors and start the soup’s soulful development.
Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the broth. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the soup turns silky and rich.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in diced tomatoes and your choice of chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for a slight crunch and freshness. Finish by sprinkling red pepper flakes if you want just a hint of spice to cut through the creaminess.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and don’t be shy with toppings: extra cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and diced pickles add that final perfect cheeseburger flair.
How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your cheeseburger soup isn’t just about looks — it truly elevates the experience. A handful of extra cheddar cheese melts on contact to create a gooey finish. Crispy bacon bits introduce a smoky crunch, while chopped green onions bring fresh color and a mild bite. For the ultimate classic, diced pickles add that punch of tartness, making every spoonful magnificent.
Side Dishes
This soup is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with some warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls can turn it into the perfect cozy lunch or dinner. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors, balancing the meal with some fresh crispness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for an extra special presentation that feels indulgent and fun. You can also ladle it over crispy baked potatoes or alongside seasoned fries to play up the “cheeseburger” theme in unique ways. No matter how you serve it, this soup always impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and you’ll find the flavors deepen even more after resting overnight.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, especially if you skip adding toppings like green onions or bacon before freezing. Place cooled soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often so it heats evenly and the cheese doesn’t stick or clump. Add a splash of broth or cream to revive its creamy texture if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for the beef if you prefer a lighter version. The flavor will be a bit milder, so you might consider adding a bit more Worcestershire sauce or seasoning to enhance the taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground meat alternatives or simply omitting the meat and increasing the mushrooms or adding beans for protein. Just use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavor profile meat-free.
Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream?
Using low-fat milk will make the soup less creamy but still tasty. Non-dairy options like coconut milk can work but may alter the flavor slightly. For the creamiest, richest results, stick to heavy cream or half-and-half.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth and aren’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer mild dishes, but a little heat helps balance the cheesy richness wonderfully.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time for a party?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded together. Just make sure to refrigerate promptly and reheat thoroughly before serving with your favorite garnishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe that warms your soul and satisfies those comfort food cravings in the best way possible. It’s quick to make, packed with familiar flavors, and endlessly versatile, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of your all-time favorite soups!
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Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheeseburger Soup recipe combines the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, comforting soup. Featuring ground beef, cheddar cheese, and creamy broth enriched with cream cheese and heavy cream, this hearty soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal. Topped with crispy bacon bits, green onions, and diced pickles, it delivers all the delicious elements of a cheeseburger in a bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms or bell peppers
Toppings
- Extra cheddar cheese, shredded
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Diced pickles
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Cook Beef: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon for about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain and Set Aside Beef: Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef and set it aside for later use.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Spices and Flavorings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the sautéed onions and garlic, combining well.
- Add Broth and Return Beef: Pour in the beef broth and return the cooked ground beef to the pot, stirring to blend everything together.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Melt Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, add the softened cream cheese, and stir until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Serve with Toppings: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and diced pickles to give it that classic cheeseburger touch.
- Enjoy: Serve the soup hot and savor the cheesy, savory flavors that combine the essence of a cheeseburger in every spoonful.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half to lighten the soup slightly.
- For a spicier kick, adjust the red pepper flakes according to taste.
- The diced tomatoes and pickles add authenticity to the cheeseburger flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the salt content if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
