There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of Hearty Creamy Cheeseburger Soup on a brisk afternoon. This recipe brings together all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melty cheddar, crisp veggies—in a comforting, spoonable form that feels like a hug from the inside. Every spoonful carries that familiar savory-sweet dance: the beef’s rich depth balanced by the mild sweetness of carrots and onion, and the cheddar’s oozy pull making you crave “just one more bite.” You’ll taste little pockets of garlic and tangy sour cream that round out the flavor profile, while the potatoes add a satisfying heft that turns this into a bona fide meal in a bowl.
When I first tested this recipe, it was a chilly Saturday evening, and I remember my kitchen filling up with laughter and chatter as my family hovered with spoons in hand. Even my picky nephew took one taste and declared it kid-approved. It’s an easy dinner solution for anyone from busy parents to beginner cooks—you only need about 15 minutes of prep, and in under an hour you’ve got a steaming pot of cozy comfort. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight feast or hosting a small gathering, this soup hits all the right notes—simple, hearty, creamy, and full of nostalgic cheeseburger goodness.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HEARTY CREAMY CHEESEBURGER SOUP
Let’s talk about the building blocks that make this soup so irresistible. Each component plays its part to deliver layers of flavor and texture, from the meaty base to the creamy finish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
- Ground beef
Provides a rich, savory base and delivers the unmistakable flavor of a classic cheeseburger. Browning the beef first also gives you those delicious caramelized bits that deepen the soup’s taste.
- Onion
Adds a savory-sweet aroma and subtle crunch. When sautéed, onions become tender and mellow, building a flavorful foundation for the soup.
- Carrots
Bring natural sweetness and a pop of color. They soften as they cook, lending body and a gentle, earthy note that balances the beef.
- Celery
Contributes a crisp, aromatic bite that complements the sweetness of carrots and onion. Celery also enhances the soup’s overall texture.
- Garlic
Infuses each spoonful with a warm, savory kick. Minced garlic adds depth and enhances the complexity of the beef broth.
- Beef broth
Acts as the flavorful liquid base, carrying umami and richness throughout the soup. It’s the backbone that binds all ingredients together.
- Worcestershire sauce
Delivers a tangy, umami-packed punch. A little goes a long way in amplifying the savory notes and adding complexity.
- Salt
Enhances and balances all the flavors. Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best in each ingredient.
- Black pepper
Contributes mild heat and a touch of sharpness, perfect for giving the soup a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy texture.
- Potatoes
Provide hearty thickness and satisfying starchiness. Diced potatoes soak up the broth’s flavor and make each bite more substantial.
- Cheddar cheese
Melts into a gooey, creamy finish. Sharp or smoked cheddar can be used for extra depth, adding that classic cheeseburger tang.
- Milk
Creates a smooth, creamy consistency. It tames the richness of the cheese and beef, ensuring the soup isn’t overly heavy.
- All-purpose flour
Works as a thickening agent when whisked with milk. It helps achieve a velvety texture that clings beautifully to every spoonful.
- Sour cream
Brings a pleasant tang and luxurious silkiness. Stirring it in at the end adds a bright, creamy lift to the broth.
- Butter
Used for sautéing the veggies, adding both richness and a glossy finish. It melds flavors together and enhances the overall mouthfeel.
- Parsley
A light, fresh garnish. Chopped parsley adds a pop of green color and a hint of herbal brightness to cut through the creaminess.
HOW TO MAKE HEARTY CREAMY CHEESEBURGER SOUP
This recipe comes together in a few straightforward stages—browning, sautéing, simmering, and finishing with a creamy, cheesy flourish. Follow along step by step and you’ll be savoring a bowl of comfort in less than an hour.
1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles and allow it to develop golden-brown edges. Once cooked through, drain excess fat into a heatproof container and set the beef aside.
2. Return the pot to the stove and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, stirring to coat in the butter. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and the onions turn translucent.
3. Add the ground beef back into the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, ensuring the seasonings distribute evenly throughout.
4. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the diced potatoes. Turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, watching for tiny bubbles to break the surface.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. This quiet simmer allows flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften.
6. While the soup simmers, whisk together the milk and flour in a small bowl until completely smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring as the soup thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
7. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Mix until the cheese fully melts and the soup is silky and creamy.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best presentation and taste.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HEARTY CREAMY CHEESEBURGER SOUP
When it comes to serving this cozy bowl of cheeseburger-inspired goodness, little details can elevate every spoonful. Here are four favorite ways to create a complete, Instagram-worthy meal that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat:
- Crusty bread on the side: Offer warm, crusty baguette slices or sourdough rolls that guests can dunk into the creamy broth. The chewy interior and golden crust soak up every bit of soup, making each bite an interactive delight.
- Sprinkled bacon bits: Crisp up some bacon until it’s extra crunchy, then crumble it over the top. Those smoky, salty morsels add texture contrast and a burst of flavor that echoes the best parts of a bacon cheeseburger.
- Fresh green salad: Balance the rich soup with a light side of mixed greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Crisp lettuce, thinly sliced radishes, and cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy bowl.
- Extra cheddar and jalapeños: For those craving extra cheesiness or a kick of heat, set out a small bowl of shredded cheddar and pickled jalapeño slices. Guests can customize each spoonful, crafting bites that are mild, tangy, or spicy—perfect for foodies who love to personalize.
HOW TO STORE HEARTY CREAMY CHEESEBURGER SOUP
Leftovers of this delightful cheeseburger soup can be just as satisfying the next day—if stored properly. Keeping the soup fresh and flavorful is all about cooling it safely and choosing the right container. Here’s how to make sure your second (or third) helping tastes as amazing as the first:
- Refrigeration in airtight containers
Allow the soup to cool slightly at room temperature (no more than 30 minutes), then transfer it into airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers. Seal tightly and store in the coldest part of your fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing for longer storage
If you want to make this soup ahead, let it cool completely. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Label each with the date, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating to maintain creaminess
Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If it has thickened too much, whisk in a splash of milk or broth to restore the silky texture.
- Avoid microwave hotspots
If you prefer microwave reheating, heat in short intervals (30–45 seconds), stirring in between. This ensures even warming and prevents the dairy components from separating or curdling.
CONCLUSION
This Hearty Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is the definition of comfort food: easy enough for beginner cooks, flavorful enough to impress company, and satisfying enough to chase away any chill. We’ve covered everything from the savory foundation of ground beef and beef broth to the rich swirl of cheddar cheese and sour cream, with veggies and potatoes that make it a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re spooning it into bowls on a quiet weeknight or ladling it out at a casual dinner party, this soup brings warmth and joy in every bite. Feel free to print and save this article for later—sticky notes in your recipe binder or a page torn from a well-loved notebook are both ideal for quick reference. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this recipe journey as much as I did sharing it with you! If you decide to give this Comfort in a Cup a try, please leave a comment or question down below—whether it’s about swapping ingredients, adjusting thickness, or extra tips for garnish. Your feedback and stories bring recipes to life, and I’d love to hear how this creamy, cheesy soup becomes part of your own family traditions. Happy cooking!
Hearty Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Description
This rich and creamy soup combines ground beef, fresh veggies, and melty cheddar for a delightful flavor explosion. Perfect for chilly days!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
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In the same pot, melt butter and add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
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Add the beef back to the pot. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
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Pour in the beef broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly until the soup thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Note
- This soup can be made thicker or thinner by adjusting the amount of milk and flour used.
- For added flavor, consider using smoked cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra richness, replace some of the milk with cream.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
