Cheeseburger Soup with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Introduction

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy, spoonable form, Cheeseburger Soup with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food dream come true. This rich, hearty soup combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a creamy broth that tastes like your favorite diner classic — only better.

Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or game-day gatherings, this soup brings the warmth of a home-cooked meal with a touch of nostalgia. Every bite delivers the savory essence of a cheeseburger — the juicy beef, the creamy cheese, the tender vegetables — all melded into one delicious bowl. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies big appetites and cozy cravings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy soup.
Family favorite: Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing.
One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum comfort.
Budget-friendly: Made with simple pantry ingredients.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with toppings or mix-ins.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cups (720 ml) chicken or beef broth
2 cups (480 ml) milk
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried mustard (optional, for tang)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Optional Toppings:

Crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
Chopped green onions or chives
Extra shredded cheese
Croutons or toasted buns for dipping

Equipment Needed

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside in a bowl.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the Broth and Potatoes

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced potatoes, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stir well, and bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

4. Thicken the Soup Base

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.

5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and dried mustard (if using) for a subtle tangy note that enhances the cheeseburger flavor.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings — extra shredded cheese, chopped chives, croutons, or crispy bits of cooked bacon (optional). For a fun twist, serve it with toasted hamburger buns or garlic bread on the side.

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup

Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Don’t overheat after adding cheese: Too much heat can cause the cheese to separate or turn grainy.
Make it lighter: Substitute ground turkey and low-fat milk for a lighter version.
Add toppings at the end: Keep crunchy toppings like croutons or bacon crisp by adding them just before serving.
Adjust thickness: Add extra broth or milk if you prefer a thinner soup consistency.

Flavor Variations

Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Add cooked bacon, chopped pickles, and a dollop of sour cream on top.
Spicy Version: Stir in diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Double Cheese Edition: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Gluten-Free: Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

Serving Suggestions

With Bread: Pair with toasted burger buns, garlic bread, or crusty French bread.
With Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or coleslaw for balance.
For Parties: Serve in small bowls or mugs topped with cheese and green onions.
For Kids: Serve with mini slider buns or oven fries for a fun cheeseburger-inspired meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Nutritional Highlights

This Cheeseburger Soup with Ground Beef & Potatoes is hearty and nutrient-rich, offering a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats:

Ground beef provides iron and protein for lasting energy.
Potatoes offer potassium and fiber.
Cheddar cheese adds calcium and satisfying creaminess.
Carrots and celery boost the soup’s vitamin content and add freshness.

Each spoonful is rich yet balanced — a full, comforting meal in a bowl.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup with Ground Beef & Potatoes captures everything you love about a classic cheeseburger — savory beef, melty cheese, and hearty comfort — and transforms it into a creamy, soul-warming soup. It’s indulgent yet easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home.

With its smooth texture, comforting aroma, and rich flavor, this soup proves that cheeseburger bliss doesn’t have to come in a bun. One bowl, and you’ll see why it’s a family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.