Cheeseburger Soup Beef Potato

Cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort dish that captures all the savory flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy bowl. This recipe has become my go-to on chilly nights when my family craves something hearty and filling that still tastes just a little bit like fast food nostalgia.

I first made this after a long day when we just wanted takeout burgers but needed something homemade and cozy instead. Now it is one of our most requested family dinners all winter long.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Brings rich hearty flavor and a classic cheeseburger taste Look for eighty to ninety percent lean beef for the best balance of tenderness and flavor
• Small onion: Adds an aromatic base to the soup Always choose onions that feel firm and have dry outer skins
• Garlic: Offers savory depth Fresh garlic cloves give a brighter taste than pre minced
• Potatoes: Make the soup extra filling and soak up all those delicious flavors Yukon Gold or Russet work best and hold their shape nicely
• Shredded carrots: Are optional but add a touch of sweetness and color Choose whole carrots and grate them yourself for freshness
• Celery: Adds crunch and earthiness Look for bright green stalks that snap easily
• Chicken or beef broth: Infuses the soup with savory richness Use low sodium if you like more control over salt
• Dried basil and dried parsley: Bring a light herby lift Pick dried herbs that still have aroma for better taste
• Black pepper and salt: For seasoning Freshly cracked black pepper has the most flavor
• Butter: Starts the vegetables and makes the roux Use good quality butter for the best result
• All purpose flour: Thickens the base Choose unbleached for a heartier flavor
• Milk: Brings creaminess Whole milk gives a richer texture but two percent also works
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts for classic cheeseburger flavor Use sharp cheddar and shred your own for best melt
• Sour cream: Is optional for even creamier soup Look for full fat for the richest texture
• Optional toppings: Like cooked bacon chopped pickles extra cheese or green onions let everyone customize their bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef:

Brown the ground beef in a large heavy pot over medium heat breaking it up with a spoon This usually takes about six minutes until the beef is no longer pink Drain off the extra fat so your soup will be silky not greasy Then scoop the beef onto a plate and set aside to add later

Cook the Vegetables:

Add the diced onion shredded carrots celery and minced garlic right into the same pot with the melted butter Cook everything together over medium for five minutes stirring occasionally until the veggies look a bit soft and the onions start to turn translucent This creates the flavor base Layer in the diced potatoes broth dried basil parsley pepper and salt Bring everything up to a simmer by turning up the heat until you see bubbles then place a lid on the pot lower the heat and let it gently cook for about ten to twelve minutes Check the potatoes with a fork They should slide right off which means they are perfectly tender

Make the Roux:

Melt the three tablespoons of butter in a small pan set over medium heat Sprinkle in the flour and whisk steadily for a couple minutes until the raw smell disappears and the mixture looks golden but not brown This helps to thicken the soup without lumps Pour the milk in slowly a bit at a time whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth creamy and just starting to thicken Kind of like making a basic white sauce

Combine and Finish:

Slowly stir the roux into the simmered soup letting it mix in completely Add the cooked beef back to the pot Give everything a good stir to bring together creamy broth tender potatoes beef and veggies Drop the heat to the lowest setting and then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese Stir gently until the cheese melts and the soup looks thick and luscious If you love an extra silky texture stir in a scoop of sour cream at this stage Taste and add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed Serve piping hot with your choice of toppings for that true cheeseburger in a bowl experience

Pin it

I absolutely love how the shredded cheddar cheese turns the soup extra gooey and decadent Each time I make this I think of cozy movie nights as a kid when my mom would stack up bowls of this soup with a plate of homemade pickles on the side

Storage Tips

Once cooled store leftover soup in an airtight container in your fridge for up to four days If you plan to freeze it leave out any toppings and use a freezer safe container When reheating use gentle heat on the stovetop and add a splash of milk if it thickens up too much

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey or chicken can swap for ground beef for a lighter version If you need a gluten free option you can use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken Switch up the cheese with Monterey Jack Colby or even smoked gouda for a different flavor twist

Serving Suggestions

This soup absolutely loves toppings Try crispy cooked bacon chopped dill pickles extra shredded cheese or sliced green onions If you want it extra hearty serve with warm crusty bread or garlic toast My family even likes a little hot sauce drizzled on top for a kick

Cultural and Historical Context

Cheeseburger soup is the best of both worlds for anyone who loves American diner classics but wants something a bit cozier The soup became popular in the Midwest where hearty soups reign supreme during the winter It is a nostalgic nod to those creamy casseroles and hamburger stews from vintage cookbooks

Pin it

For the best bite let this soup rest just a bit before digging in so those cheeseburger flavors can truly meld together. Every bowl feels like a warm hug on a chilly night.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a lighter version with a similar texture and flavor.

→ What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture to the soup.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to keep the soup thick and creamy without wheat.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Absolutely, prepare up to two days ahead and reheat gently. Add extra milk if thickened after chilling.

→ What toppings add authentic cheeseburger flavor?

Chopped pickles, bacon, extra cheddar, and green onions all add classic burger-inspired touches.