There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Cheeseburger Soup to take the chill out of a cold day. This creamy, comforting dish is packed with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich cheesy broth that tastes just like your favorite burger—without the bun!

I discovered this recipe when craving something indulgent but easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner. It's now a family favorite that never fails to bring smiles to the table. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this comforting classic. Cheeseburger Soup combines all the best parts of a burger in a one-pot wonder that’s as delicious as it is simple to make.

First, it's quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have a steaming bowl of soup on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting friends, the familiar flavors of this soup always hit the spot. Plus, it’s just as satisfying as a burger and fries!

Budget-conscious? This recipe uses pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, and cheese, so it’s as affordable as it is tasty.

Finally, it’s a one-pot meal. Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your dinner—a win-win in any cook's book.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cheeseburger Soup lies in its simple ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that’s rich, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy.

Ground Beef: The base of this soup, ground beef adds hearty, savory flavor. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but any type will work. Don’t forget to drain the fat!
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they hold their shape while cooking and add a creamy texture. Dice them into small, even cubes for faster cooking.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the star here, giving the soup its classic cheeseburger flavor. For extra creaminess, you can mix in Velveeta or Monterey Jack.
Broth and Cream: A combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a luscious base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the cream for milk or half-and-half.
Veggies: Onion, celery, and carrots add depth of flavor and a bit of crunch to balance the richness of the soup.

Special equipment: You’ll need a large soup pot or Dutch oven to cook this one-pot meal. A potato masher is also handy if you like a slightly creamier texture.

How To Make This Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Making Cheeseburger Soup is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. Let’s break it down step by step.

Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, melt a little butter and sauté diced onion, celery, and carrots until softened. This step builds the base flavor of the soup, so don’t rush it!
Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender—about 10-15 minutes.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melty.
Combine and Simmer: Pour the cheese sauce into the soup pot and stir well to combine. Add the cooked ground beef back in and simmer for another 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or crumbled bacon for a fun burger-inspired twist.

Storage Options

Cheeseburger Soup stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, the dairy in it may separate upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, do so before adding the cheese and cream. Then, stir those in after reheating.
Meal Prep Tip: Portion out individual servings in microwave-safe containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your Cheeseburger Soup:

Make It Healthier: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and use milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon brings extra smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Load It Up: Just like a loaded baked potato, you can top your soup with sour cream, chives, or shredded lettuce for extra flair.

Enjoy this Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe as a comforting dinner for chilly nights or anytime you're craving something hearty and delicious. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a staple in our household. Let me know how yours turns out in the comments below!