Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. It brings together all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, tender potatoes, and a hint of zest—with the ease of a cozy, hearty soup. Whether it’s chilly weather or just a day when you want to treat yourself, this soup delivers rich flavors, creamy texture, and pure satisfaction in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this soup’s comforting vibe. Each element plays a special role in layering flavors, adding texture, or lending that perfect cheesy richness.

• 1 pound ground beef: The star protein that adds savory depth and classic cheeseburger flavor.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma that mellow as they cook.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of fragrant flavor that makes the soup inviting.
• 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful base that ties everything together without overwhelming.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings brightness and a touch of acidity.
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained: Adds mild heat and a subtle kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A balanced mix of herbs that lifts the savory profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all the other flavors naturally.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a gentle warmth and complexity.
• 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (about 2 large potatoes): Provides heartiness and a creamy bite once tender.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Just the right bit of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The secret to a velvety and indulgent texture.
• 1 cup milk: Lightens the soup and adds smoothness.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping: The ultimate cheeseburger element, melted perfectly into the soup.
• Optional toppings: cooked bacon crumbles, sour cream, green onions: Customize your experience with added crunch, creaminess, and freshness.

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This process builds the foundation of rich, meaty flavor that defines this Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from getting too oily.

Step 2: Sauté Onions Until Translucent

Next, toss in your chopped onions. Cook them down gently, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn translucent—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Soft onions add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef beautifully.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Stir

Throw in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute. Garlic releases its incredible aroma and flavor quickly, so be careful not to let it burn. This step wakes up the taste buds with that classic, comforting garlic scent.

Step 4: Pour in Broth, Tomatoes, and Chilies

Now it’s time to add the beef broth, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, and diced green chilies right from the can. These ingredients bring liquid goodness and a touch of brightness and mild heat to the soup, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s truly satisfying.

Step 5: Season with Italian Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These simple seasonings add layers of flavor without overpowering the star ingredients. Stir everything together well to disperse the seasonings evenly.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Carrots

Next, add your peeled and cubed potatoes along with shredded carrots. These veggies not only add texture but also create a wholesome, filling element that makes this soup dinner-worthy.

Step 7: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This slow cooking melds all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 8: Blend in Cream Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and add the softened cream cheese. Use a whisk or an immersion blender to stir it in until the soup is gorgeously smooth and creamy. This step is what takes the soup to that next-level comfort food status.

Step 9: Stir in Milk

Pour in the milk and mix carefully until the soup is fully combined and creamy. Milk lightens the texture while preserving the richness, making every bite silky and luscious.

Step 10: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

Finally, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the soup. This is where the classic cheeseburger flavor really shines, adding sharp, gooey goodness that everyone will love.

Step 11: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and invite your family to customize with extra cheddar, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and freshly sliced green onions. These toppings add even more layers of flavor and texture, making the whole meal feel just a bit more special.

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Garnishes

Keep things fun and fresh by topping your soup with crispy bacon crumbles, a dollop of cool sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These garnishes complement the rich soup with crunch, tang, and sharpness, creating a perfect bite every time.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A simple side salad can lighten things up if you want a contrast to the hearty soup. You can also serve it alongside classic fries to keep the cheeseburger theme going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special dinner, serve the soup in hollowed-out small bread bowls for an extra cozy touch. Or, layer toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their own perfect bowl. Pair with a crisp white wine or light beer to turn this comfort food into an indulgent experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the cheddar cheese can thicken the soup as it cools, so expect to add a splash of milk when reheating to regain that perfect creamy consistency.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent texture changes in the potatoes, slightly undercook them before freezing and finish cooking when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add milk or broth if the soup is too thick. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to keep the texture smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use cheddar cheese alternatives in this soup?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional for its bold flavor and meltability, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky cheese for a fun twist. Just be mindful of salt levels.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes. Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The creaminess from the cheese and cream cheese keeps it rich and satisfying.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, add cream cheese, milk, and cheddar near the end, and stir until smooth and melty.

What’s the best potato to use for this soup?

Russet potatoes or Yukon Golds work best because they hold their shape while becoming tender and creamy. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which may stay too firm.

How can I make this soup spicier?

For more heat, add extra diced green chilies or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes during the seasoning step. You could also top with sliced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce for a fiery finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about this Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe that feels like a warm, delicious hug on any day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving solo comfort, this soup brings together hearty ingredients and melty cheese in the most delightful way. I hope you try it soon and discover just how easy and rewarding this cozy bowl can be!

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