Creamy Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

On chilly evenings, when you’re craving something hearty, warm, and packed with flavor, this easy cheeseburger soup is just what you need. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket—but in soup form. Every spoonful is creamy, cheesy, savory, and downright comforting.

Here’s why this soup recipe is a keeper:

Quick and simple: Ready in under an hour with easy-to-follow steps.
Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love the familiar cheeseburger flavors.
One pot wonder: Less mess, less cleanup, and more time to relax.
Budget-friendly: Uses pantry-friendly staples and affordable ingredients.
Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze for later!

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to whip up something satisfying after a long day, this soup checks all the boxes. Isn’t it time cheesy comfort became your weeknight go-to?

Essential Tools and Equipment

You don’t need a professional kitchen to make cheeseburger soup. Just grab these simple tools:

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Cutting board and knife
Vegetable peeler
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving
Optional: immersion blender for a creamier texture

Preparation Tips

Want to make your cooking process smoother? These tips have got you covered:

Prep ahead: Chop the veggies and grate the cheese the day before to save time.
Brown the meat thoroughly: Let it develop a beautiful sear for deeper flavor.
Use full-fat cheese and cream: It creates the best texture and taste.
Don’t rush the simmer: Let the flavors meld slowly for maximum deliciousness.
Customize spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce if you like a kick.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy cheeseburger soup:

1 pound ground beef
¾ cup chopped onion
¾ cup shredded carrots
¾ cup diced celery
1 teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried parsley
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
3 cups chicken broth
4 cups diced potatoes (peeled)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
1½ cups whole milk
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup sour cream (at room temperature)

Looking for the star ingredient? Sharp cheddar cheese is the ultimate flavor booster here, balancing the richness of the soup with that classic “cheeseburger” bite.

Step-by-Step Directions

Ready to cook? Follow along step-by-step and you’ll be ladling piping hot bowls of cheeseburger soup in no time.

In a large soup pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until no pink remains and meat is crumbly. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside in a bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pot. Stir in the onions, carrots, celery, basil, and parsley. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 7–9 minutes.
Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, then gradually whisk in the milk. Continue whisking until thickened and smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
Slowly pour the milk mixture into the soup pot. Stir everything together gently until combined. Simmer for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Turn off the heat. Add shredded cheddar, stirring until completely melted and incorporated. Stir in sour cream and mix well.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese, green onions, or bacon bits if desired.

And voilà! Creamy cheeseburger soup ready to warm both your belly and soul.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple soups have a few sneaky pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear of them:

Overcooking the potatoes: Dice evenly and monitor closely so they don’t become mushy.
Skipping the roux: It’s tempting to cut corners, but the roux ensures a creamy, thick consistency.
Adding cheese too early: High heat causes cheese to break or become gritty. Always add it last, off the heat.
Using pre-shredded cheese: Freshly grated melts better and gives a smoother texture—worth the extra few minutes.

Best Side Dishes

Soup’s soulmate? A good side dish! These pair beautifully with cheeseburger soup:

Crusty garlic bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop.
Simple side salad: Toss mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Pickle spears: Just like with a burger, the acidity cuts through the creaminess.
Buttery biscuits: Fluffy, flaky, and just right alongside this comforting dish.

Expert Recipe Tips

Want to take this soup to the next level? Try these tips:

Swap proteins: Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a lighter version.
Add crunch: Top bowls with crushed tortilla chips or crispy bacon for texture.
Spice it up: Mix in diced green chiles, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a zesty twist.
Make it low-carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly option.

Cheeseburger soup is super customizable—don’t be afraid to get creative!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Great news: this soup stores and reheats like a champ.

Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it, but wait until after reheating to stir in sour cream or cheese for best texture. Freeze up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! While fresh gives a better texture, frozen veggies are convenient and work well in a pinch. Just add them to the pot when sautéing.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes break down a bit and help thicken the soup, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better. Choose based on your texture preference.

Do I have to use sour cream?

Nope! You can swap it for plain Greek yogurt or skip it altogether if desired. It adds a mild tang and creaminess but isn’t essential.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but brown the meat and sauté veggies first for best flavor. After that, it’s slow cooker–friendly—just add the dairy at the end.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the warm hug of a homemade soup—especially when it tastes like a cheeseburger in liquid form! This creamy cheeseburger soup is packed with flavor, family-approved, and super easy to whip up for a weeknight win.

Whether you’re curled up with a book, prepping for game night, or just need a little extra comfort, this recipe delivers all the cozy vibes. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out! Did you make some clever swaps or add a fun topping? Drop a comment or share your version on social media—I’d love to see your delicious spins!

Hungry for more soup night ideas? Try my Easy Potato Soup or Hearty Beef Stew—they’re just as comforting and satisfying.

Happy cooking! 🧡