Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Introduction to This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could take the flavor of a juicy cheeseburger and magically turn it into a warm, cozy bowl of soup—well, you’re about to discover your new favorite comfort food. This easy cheeseburger soup recipe delivers everything you love about a classic cheeseburger: the savory ground beef, the creamy cheese, the hearty potatoes, and the rich, comforting broth. But instead of being sandwiched between a bun, all those flavors meld together in a velvety soup that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Cheeseburger soup has become incredibly popular in American home kitchens because it’s one of those rare meals that checks every box. It’s inexpensive, family-friendly, customizable, and somehow tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, hungry teenagers, or just craving something filling after a long day, this soup delivers every time.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is. While some soups require long simmer times or complicated steps, this version keeps things easy without sacrificing any of the creamy, cheesy goodness you’d expect. Using common ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, onions, carrots, and cheddar cheese, this recipe transforms pantry staples into a satisfying dinner that feels like a treat. That’s the magic of cheeseburger soup—it tastes indulgent without being fussy or time-consuming.

And if you’re thinking, “Can I really get that irresistible cheeseburger flavor in a soup?” Absolutely. As you brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, your kitchen fills with that same mouthwatering aroma you get when you’re cooking burgers on the stovetop. Then everything gets simmered in a buttery, velvety broth that thickens into a creamy base. Finally, shredded cheddar melts directly into the pot, giving the soup its signature richness.

Even better, this recipe has plenty of flexibility. Want something hands-off? You can turn it into a crockpot cheeseburger soup with just a few tweaks. Prefer a more filling variation? Try cheeseburger macaroni soup, where tender pasta adds extra heartiness. Eating low-carb? A keto cheeseburger soup version swaps out the potatoes and flour for keto-friendly alternatives while keeping the same satisfying flavor.

Cheeseburger soup is also a great introduction for beginner cooks. It doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a large soup pot or Dutch oven—and the steps are simple enough for anyone to follow. The flavors are also familiar and comforting, making it a great “starter recipe” for someone building confidence in the kitchen.

Another reason people love this soup? It’s a complete meal in a bowl. You’ve got protein, veggies, carbs, and dairy all working together to create a balanced, filling dish. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad, and you’ve got the kind of dinner that makes the whole family head to the table without being called twice.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from ingredients and kitchen tools to step-by-step instructions and tasty variations. We’ll also explore creative add-ins, storage tips, and solutions for common mistakes. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident enough to whip up a pot anytime the craving hits.

So if you’re ready to transform a classic American favorite into a cozy bowl of pure comfort, let’s get started. This easy cheeseburger soup recipe might just become your new weeknight staple.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup

There are plenty of soups out there, but few deliver the same level of comfort, flavor, and satisfaction as cheeseburger soup. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply trying to stay warm on a chilly night, this recipe gives you everything you need in one delicious pot. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

A Hearty One-Pot Meal for Busy Families

We all have those nights when we want something warm and filling but don’t have the energy for a complicated dinner. Cheeseburger soup solves that problem beautifully. Everything cooks in a single pot, which means fewer dishes, less stress, and more time relaxing after dinner. Ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, broth, and cheese come together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

And unlike some soups that feel more like a side dish, this one truly stands on its own. It’s thick, creamy, and packed with protein, making every bowl satisfying and substantial. You don’t need to serve anything extra unless you want to.

Perfect for Cozy Fall and Winter Dinners

Imagine coming home on a cold evening, taking off your coat, and being greeted by the smell of bubbling cheeseburger soup on the stovetop. There’s something undeniably comforting about that moment. The creamy base and warm spices wrap you up like your favorite blanket, making it the perfect cold-weather recipe.

It’s the kind of soup that makes you slow down, enjoy each spoonful, and maybe even warm your hands over the bowl while you eat. If you’re into cozy meals, this recipe is basically winter in a pot.

Easily Adaptable for Keto, Low-Carb, and Dairy Options

Another reason this soup is so loved is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for different dietary needs or simply experimenting with flavors, it adapts beautifully:

• Want a keto cheeseburger soup? Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower, use heavy cream instead of milk, and skip the flour.
• Want a lighter version? Use ground turkey instead of beef and reduce the cheese.
• Want extra richness? Add more cheddar or a splash of cream cheese.
• Need it gluten-free? Use cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

It’s customizable without losing its delicious essence.

Great Make-Ahead Soup for Meal Prep

Cheeseburger soup is one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day. As it cools, the flavors deepen, the broth thickens, and the ingredients meld together. That makes it perfect for meal prep, big families, or anyone looking to plan ahead for the week.

You can store it in the fridge for several days or freeze individual portions for future meals. It reheats beautifully, especially when warmed gently on the stovetop.

Ingredients Needed for the Best Cheeseburger Soup

To create an unforgettable bowl of cheeseburger soup, you don’t need anything fancy. Everything in this recipe is simple, accessible, and probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before cooking:

Key Ingredients

These provide the foundation of the flavor:

• Ground beef
• Potatoes
• Onion
• Celery
• Carrots
• Garlic
• Butter
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Chicken or beef broth
• Milk or heavy cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, pepper, paprika

Each ingredient plays its role. The beef gives the soup its signature cheeseburger flavor. The vegetables add sweetness and depth. The potatoes give the dish body. The flour and butter form a roux that thickens the soup, while the cheese melts into the broth for creamy richness.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to customize your soup? Try:

• Diced tomatoes
• Worcestershire sauce
• Bacon bits (use beef bacon to follow your preferences)
• Green chiles
• Extra cheddar or Monterey Jack
• Mustard or ketchup for classic burger vibes

Substitutions for Keto Cheeseburger Soup

To keep the flavor intact while reducing carbs, swap:

• Potatoes → cauliflower florets
• Flour → xanthan gum or omit
• Milk → heavy cream
• Carrots → small amounts or omit altogether

Pantry Staples and Seasonings

A few basics can transform your soup:

• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Parsley
• Cayenne (optional)

These spices help balance the richness of the cheese and beef, giving the soup a well-rounded flavor profile.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

One of the best things about making cheeseburger soup is that it doesn’t require any special or complicated equipment. Just a few basic kitchen tools are all you need to prepare a rich, creamy, and flavorful pot of soup. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should have on hand before you start cooking.

Dutch Oven or Large Soup Pot

A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is perfect for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and prevents the dairy-based broth from scorching. But if you don’t have one, a regular large soup pot works perfectly fine. The key is to use something deep enough to hold all your ingredients comfortably.

Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife

You’ll be chopping onions, celery, carrots, potatoes, and garlic, so having a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife makes the process much easier. This is one of those recipes where prep work is simple but important. The more evenly you chop your vegetables, the more consistent your soup texture will be.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Even if you tend to cook by feel, the roux and broth balance in this recipe benefits from accuracy. Measuring your flour, butter, liquids, and cheese ensures that your soup thickens correctly and has the perfect creamy consistency.

Ladle for Serving

A ladle makes it easy to portion the soup into bowls while keeping the ingredients and broth evenly distributed. This is especially helpful for a chunky, hearty soup like cheeseburger soup, where every serving should have a good balance of beef, potatoes, and veggies.

How to Make This Easy Cheeseburger Soup Step-by-Step

This easy cheeseburger soup recipe is designed for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The steps are straightforward, but the result is a beautifully layered, rich, comforting soup that tastes like it simmered all afternoon. Here’s how to bring everything together.

Browning the Ground Beef and Vegetables

Start by heating your pot over medium heat, then add your ground beef. Allow it to brown slowly, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. As it cooks, you’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen—this is where the cheeseburger flavor begins. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain excess grease if needed, then return it to the pot.

Next, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These aromatics form the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Sauté everything together until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. At this point, you’ll really start to smell the rich, savory base developing.

Creating a Rich, Creamy Broth

Now it’s time to build the creamy base. Add butter and let it melt around the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle in the flour to form a roux. This thickens the broth and gives the soup its smooth, luxurious texture. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Once the flour is fully incorporated, gradually pour in the broth—either chicken or beef works well. Stir gently as the mixture begins to thicken. Then add the potatoes, seasonings, and let everything simmer until the potatoes become tender.

Adding Potatoes and Simmering to Perfection

Potatoes are essential to cheeseburger soup because they add body and heartiness. Cut them into small, even cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. As the soup simmers, the starch from the potatoes helps thicken the broth even more, blending beautifully with the roux.

Let the soup bubble gently until the potatoes are fork-tender. Don’t rush this process; simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Thickening the Soup with a Simple Roux

If you want your soup even thicker, you can make a bit more roux by melting butter in a separate pan and adding flour. Whisk until smooth, then stir it into the pot. This gives the soup an even silkier, more indulgent texture. As soon as the potatoes are soft, turn the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into the broth, transforming the soup into a rich, velvety, cheeseburger-inspired masterpiece.

Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup Variation (Slow Cooker Option)

Sometimes life gets busy, and you want a comforting dinner ready by the time you walk in the door. This is where crockpot cheeseburger soup shines. With just a little prep work, you can let the slow cooker handle the rest.

Prep Steps Before Adding Ingredients

Before loading up your slow cooker, brown the ground beef on the stovetop. You’ll also want to sauté the onions and garlic for the best flavor. Once everything is browned and fragrant, transfer the mixture to the crockpot.

Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, broth, and seasonings. Slow cookers are perfect for soups because they allow flavors to develop slowly and deeply.

Cooking Time and Heat Settings

Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The potatoes should be soft but not mushy. Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the milk or cream.

When to Add Cheese and Cream

It’s important to add the cheese toward the end of the cooking process. If added too early, dairy can curdle or separate. Stir in the shredded cheddar slowly, allowing it to melt into the broth. This step gives the soup its signature creamy texture.

Serving Tips for Extra Creaminess

If you want the soup thicker, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the pot before adding the cheese. For extra richness, add a spoonful of cream cheese before serving. The result is a silky, indulgent bowl of crockpot cheeseburger soup that tastes like a warm embrace after a long day.

Delicious Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Variation

If you’re craving something even heartier, try turning this recipe into cheeseburger macaroni soup. Adding pasta transforms the dish into a comforting hybrid of soup and casserole.

How to Add Pasta Without Overcooking

Cook the pasta separately until it’s slightly underdone. This keeps it from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy once added to the soup.

Best Types of Macaroni to Use

Small pasta shapes work best:

• Elbow macaroni
• Small shells
• Ditalini
• Cavatappi

They soak up flavor without overwhelming the soup.

Adjusting Liquids for a Perfect Texture

Because pasta absorbs broth, add an extra cup of liquid to your soup before simmering. This ensures that the final dish stays creamy and doesn’t dry out.

Turning Leftovers into a New Meal

Leftover cheeseburger macaroni soup thickens into a pasta skillet the next day. Simply heat it in a pan, add a splash of milk, and you have a brand-new meal.

Keto Cheeseburger Soup Variation

If you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you can still enjoy all the flavors of cheeseburger soup with this easy variation. The key is to replace the higher-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives.

Low-Carb Ingredient Swaps

Instead of potatoes, use cauliflower florets. They mimic the texture of potatoes without the carbs. Replace flour with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.

How to Keep the Soup Thick Without Flour

Heavy cream naturally thickens as it simmers, giving the broth a satisfying richness. If you want an even thicker base, soften cream cheese into the broth—it melts beautifully and adds body without flour.

Keto-Friendly Vegetables to Include

Try using:

• Zucchini
• Cauliflower
• Spinach
• Mushrooms

These vegetables add volume, nutrients, and flavor.

Best Cheese Choices for Creaminess

Sharp cheddar is always a great choice, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a slight kick.

This keto-friendly version delivers all the comfort of traditional cheeseburger soup without the carbs, and it’s just as filling and delicious.

Extra Tips for a Creamy, Flavorful Cheeseburger Soup

Even though cheeseburger soup is naturally simple to prepare, these tips can help you take the flavor and texture to the next level:

How to Avoid Curdling When Adding Cheese

Lower the heat before adding cheese. Dairy doesn’t like boiling temperatures, so stir gently and slowly until the cheese melts evenly.

Ways to Make the Soup Extra Thick

Try:

• Adding extra roux
• Mixing in cream cheese
• Using an immersion blender to partially puree the potatoes
• Letting the soup simmer uncovered for a few minutes

Flavor Boosters

If you want a deeper, more layered flavor, enhance your soup with:

• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Worcestershire sauce
• A small squeeze of mustard
• A dash of cayenne

These small additions can dramatically elevate the soup’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding cheese too quickly
• Not sautéing the vegetables enough
• Using pre-shredded bagged cheese (it contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting)
• Rushing the simmer time

Patience results in the best bowl of soup.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Cheeseburger soup is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and reheats beautifully.

How Long Cheeseburger Soup Lasts in the Fridge

You can store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Best Containers for Freezing Soup

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags laid flat. This saves space and helps the soup thaw evenly.

Reheating Directions Without Separating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Fresh Toppings to Add After Reheating

Try topping with shredded cheese, chopped parsley, diced pickles, or green onions for freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Cheeseburger Soup Without Potatoes?

Yes, you can replace potatoes with cauliflower or omit them entirely for a low-carb option.

How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?

Swap the flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a lighter, equally flavorful soup.

What Should I Serve with Cheeseburger Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, side salads, or roasted vegetables.

More soup recipes you’ll love

Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Lasagna Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup

Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

This creamy and hearty Cheeseburger Soup combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, veggies, and melted cheese for the perfect cozy comfort meal. Easy to make, family-friendly, and packed with classic cheeseburger flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 425 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 medium potatoes peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour for thickening

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• ¼ cup cooked macaroni for cheeseburger macaroni soup style
• ½ cup heavy cream for extra creaminess

Keto Variation Ingredients

• Replace potatoes with 2 cups cauliflower florets
• Replace flour with 1 tablespoon xanthan gum
• Use heavy cream instead of milk

Instructions

 

Cook the Beef:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté Veggies:

• Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until veggies soften.

Add Potatoes & Seasonings:

• Stir in potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

Add Broth & Simmer:

• Pour in the chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Make the Roux:

• In a separate small pan, melt butter, then whisk in flour to form a paste. Cook for 1 minute and stir into the soup to thicken.

Add Milk & Cheese:

• Pour in milk and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Finish With Sour Cream:

• Stir in sour cream for added richness.

Taste & Adjust:

• Add more salt, pepper, or cheese if desired.

Serve:

• Ladle into bowls and serve warm with fresh bread, croutons, or a side salad.

Notes

• Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup:
  Brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients (except cheese, milk, sour cream) to slow cooker; cook 6 hours on LOW. Add dairy during final 20 minutes.
• Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup:
  Add ¼–½ cup cooked elbow macaroni before serving.
• Keto Cheeseburger Soup Modification:
  Replace potatoes with cauliflower and use heavy cream.
• Make It Spicy:
  Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes.