Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, a comforting aroma enveloped me, ushering in the first hints of fall. This is the magic of my Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup—a bowl of cozy nostalgia and warmth that beckons you to take a seat and savor each spoonful. Packed with seasoned ground beef, luscious cheddar cheese, and tender veggies, this dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an inviting embrace on chilly evenings. The best part? It’s beginner-friendly, taking just 50 minutes to prepare! Plus, with options for gluten-free modifications and only 450 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free indulgence for the whole family. Curious to see how easily you can whip up this comfort food classic? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Soup So Irresistible? Comforting Warmth: With every spoonful, you’ll feel the cozy embrace of this soup, perfect for brisk evenings or family gatherings. Easy to Make: Even novice cooks can shine with this beginner-friendly recipe that requires minimal effort and basic ingredients. Customizable Goodness: Adjust it to suit your taste—try different proteins like turkey or chicken, or mix in fresh veggies for a personal twist! Light Yet Filling: At only 450 calories per serving, enjoy a creamy indulgence without the guilt, making it great for meal prep. Deliciously Satisfying: This rich, hearty blend of flavors will keep everyone asking for seconds, making it a crowd favorite among family and friends. Serve with Style: Pair it with crunchy garlic bread for an unforgettable meal or alongside a fresh salad for added crunch—your choice! Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create this delightful bowl of comfort! For the Soup Base Ground Beef – Provides the hearty, savory base; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Olive Oil – Used for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables; adds a subtle fruitiness for depth. Chopped Onions – Sweetens and caramelizes, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully. Finely Diced Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; can be replaced with chopped bell peppers for variety. Sliced Celery – Contributes a mild crunch and fresh vegetable notes; replace with fresh herbs like thyme for extra flavor. Minced Garlic – Imparts warmth and depth to the broth; skip it if you’re sensitive to garlic flavors. For the Broth Chicken Broth – Acts as the flavorful liquid base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian variant. Diced Potatoes – Adds body and creaminess; can be replaced with cooked rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. For Thickening All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the broth to creamy perfection; opt for gluten-free flour if needed. Milk – Brings a rich creaminess; substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. For the Cheese Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the soup for that classic cheeseburger taste; try gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors. For Seasoning and Finishing Touches Salt and Black Pepper – Enhance the overall flavors; adjust to taste. Sour Cream – Adds a tangy finish; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. Optional Garnishes Chopped Pickles – For a crunchy, zesty kick; perfect for topping! Extra Cheese – Add more melted goodness for cheese lovers. Green Onions – For a fresh, colorful touch; sprinkle on top! Bacon Bits – Crumble crispy bacon for an irresistible rich flavor! This Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup promises to warm your soul with every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Step 1: Brown the Beef In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside on a plate. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In the same pot, add the chopped onions, finely diced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This step builds a rich flavor base for your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 2 cups of diced potatoes. Gently stir to combine, making sure all ingredients are submerged in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Step 4: Simmer the Soup Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As the soup simmers, the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a hearty base for your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup. Step 5: Thicken the Broth In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering soup while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This step will create the creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible. Step 6: Cook Until Thickened Continue to cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently over low heat until the soup thickens. Be careful not to let it scorch on the bottom, as you want to maintain a rich, creamy consistency in your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup. Step 7: Add Cheese and Season Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. Then season with salt and black pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The cheese adds a delightful richness that ties the whole dish together! Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream Remove the pot from the heat and fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream until fully combined, bringing a delightful tang to the Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup. This step adds a luscious creaminess and balances the savory flavors beautifully. Step 9: Serve and Garnish Ladle the hot soup into bowls and add your choice of optional garnishes such as chopped pickles, extra cheese, green onions, or bacon bits. Each garnish will elevate the flavors and textures, making your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup a personalized delight! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance for maximum convenience! You can chop the vegetables and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours ahead of time—simply store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also whisk together the flour and milk mixture in advance, ensuring it’s lump-free when added. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, just follow the final steps: combine everything in the pot, simmer until hot, mix in the cheese and sour cream, and serve! With these make ahead preparations, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal waiting for you with minimal effort. Expert Tips for Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Browning the Beef: Ensure the beef is browned well for maximum flavor; do not overcrowd the pot to allow even cooking. Prevent Lumps: Combine the flour and milk thoroughly before adding to the pot to prevent lumps in your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup. Store Properly: Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container, ensuring freshness for up to 3 days. Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture—avoid high heat to prevent separation. Freezing Caution: Avoid freezing with dairy mixed in. Instead, freeze the base broth and add dairy after reheating for ideal texture. Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies or spices; this soup is versatile and welcomes personal touches! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to freeze the soup, do so without the dairy components. Store the base broth in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add cream and cheese upon reheating to preserve the texture. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup gently over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency without scorching. Portioning: For easier serving, consider dividing the soup into individual portions before refrigerating or freezing. Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delicious soup to suit your tastes! Turkey Alternative: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option that still packs a flavorful punch. It’s a great way to enjoy the same comforting goodness while cutting down on calories. Vegetable Medley: Add colorful bell peppers, corn, or peas to enhance both nutrition and texture. These vibrant veggies will not only boost the flavor but also make your soup more visually enticing! Plant-Based Twist: Use plant-based ground meat in place of traditional beef for a vegan-friendly version. This substitution keeps the comforting essence while catering to dietary preferences. Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a delightful heat that elevates the soup experience. A little spice can take your cheeseburger soup to the next level, bringing warmth and vibrancy into each bite! Creamy Reimagining: Replace regular milk with a rich coconut milk or cashew milk for a creamy, dairy-free version. This swap gives the soup a luscious texture while making it suitable for those avoiding dairy. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or parsley for a fragrant twist. A handful of herbs can transform the flavor profile, giving it a fresh, garden-fresh feel. More Cheese: Boost the cheesiness by mixing in a variety of cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack along with the cheddar. The result will be an even richer and more decadent experience, perfect for cheese lovers! Garnish Galore: Top with crunchy fried onions, crispy bacon bits, or crunchy tortilla strips for added texture. Each of these options adds layers of flavor, making your soup even more delightful with every spoonful. For more comfort food inspiration, don’t miss out on my Street Corn Soup or the flavorful Fiery Chicken Ramen. Each dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table! What to Serve with Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Elevate your next dinner by pairing this rich, creamy soup with delicious sides that complement its flavors beautifully. Crunchy Garlic Bread: The crispy exterior and buttery garlic flavor provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup. Perfect for dipping! Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds bright flavors and texture, balancing the richness of the soup. Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy coleslaw introduces a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup, making each bite invigorating. Savory Cheddar Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits echo the soup’s flavors and offer a warm, delightful addition to the meal. Dip them for extra indulgence! Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots bathed in honey add a hint of sweetness, contrasting beautifully with the savory soup. Pilsner or Light Beer: A cold, refreshing pilsner enhances the comforting warmth of the soup without overwhelming your palate, making for a perfect dining experience. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic cookies add a sweet finish—everyone will love this warm, comforting treat after the savory main course! These pairings will not only complement your Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup but also transform your dining experience into a cozy gathering. Enjoy! Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs What type of ground beef should I use for this soup? Absolutely! You can use regular ground beef for a classic flavor, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that’s still satisfying. How should I store leftover Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I always let it cool completely before sealing to help maintain freshness and flavor! Can I freeze Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup? While freezing the soup isn’t recommended due to the dairy, you can freeze the base broth without the cream and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat and stir in the dairy for the best texture! What if my soup is too thick? If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more chicken broth or milk while stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Don’t fret; adjustments are easy and part of the cooking magic! Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? Yes, the recipe contains dairy and gluten, but you can easily modify it! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive or lactose-intolerant guests. Always check labels for allergies when selecting substitutes. How can I enhance the flavor profile of the soup? For a deeper flavor, consider adding spices such as cayenne pepper for a kick or smoked paprika for a unique twist. Additionally, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of cooking can brighten the soup beautifully! Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup That Warms Your Soul Enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Hearty Cheeseburger Soup with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and tender veggies—a cozy meal for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for lighter version2 tablespoons Olive Oil For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables1 cup Chopped Onions Enhances flavor profile1 cup Finely Diced Carrots Can be replaced with chopped bell peppers1 cup Sliced Celery Replace with fresh herbs for extra flavor3 cloves Minced Garlic Skip if sensitive to garlic flavorsFor the Broth4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian variant2 cups Diced Potatoes Can be replaced with cooked rice or quinoa for gluten-free optionFor Thickening1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Opt for gluten-free flour if needed1 cup Milk Substitute with plant-based milk for dairy-free versionFor the Cheese1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Try gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavorsFor Seasoning and Finishing Touches1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternativeOptional Garnishes1/4 cup Chopped Pickles For a crunchy, zesty kick1 cup Extra Cheese Add more melted goodness for cheese lovers1/4 cup Green Onions For a fresh, colorful touch1/4 cup Bacon Bits Crumble crispy bacon for an irresistible rich flavor Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.In the same pot, add chopped onions, finely diced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.Return the browned beef to the pot, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, and add 2 cups of diced potatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.Cover and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally.Whisk together 1/4 cup of flour and 1 cup of milk in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually add to the soup while stirring to avoid lumps.Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the soup thickens, being careful not to scorch.Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted completely, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.Remove from heat and fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream until combined, adding a delightful tang.Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped pickles, extra cheese, green onions, or bacon bits as preferred. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for freshness up to 3 days. Avoid freezing with dairy mixed in. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
