Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could turn your favorite cheeseburger into a comforting, creamy bowl of goodness, this Cheeseburger Soup is exactly what you need. Loaded with crispy bacon, savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich cheddar cheese, it captures every flavor you love in a cozy soup form. With its velvety texture and just the right touch of mustard and lemon juice, this dish is a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any day when you want that classic cheeseburger taste without the bun. Let me walk you through making this personal favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cheeseburger Soup lies in its simple, approachable ingredients, each playing a vital role in building its rich, hearty flavor. From crispy bacon for crunch to creamy cheddar for that velvety finish, every component adds a special touch that makes this soup so irresistible.

• Bacon (5 strips, chopped): Adds smoky crunch and depth of flavor that elevates the soup.
• Ground beef (1 pound, lean): The savory protein base replicating that classic burger taste.
• Butter (4 tablespoons): Provides richness and helps soften the veggies perfectly.
• Onion (½ medium, chopped): Brings sweetness and aromatic layers to the broth.
• Celery (2 ribs, chopped): Adds subtle earthiness and crunch for balance.
• Carrots (2 medium, chopped): Lend a natural sweetness and lovely orange color.
• Garlic (1 tablespoon minced, about 3 cloves): Infuses a warm, savory punch.
• All-purpose flour (⅓ cup): Thicken the soup to that perfect creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid base, tying everything together.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and richness.
• Yellow mustard (1 tablespoon): Gives a subtle zing that brightens the flavor profile.
• Russet potatoes (1 pound, peeled and diced): Hearty and tender, creating a comforting texture.
• Cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts throughout for that unbeatable cheesy goodness.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a fresh, tangy note that balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season thoughtfully to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Crisp That Bacon

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until it’s perfectly crispy, around 10 minutes. This step not only delivers that satisfying crunch but also leaves behind flavorful bacon fat that will season the rest of the soup. If the bacon cooks too quickly, simply reduce the heat to medium to avoid burning. Once crisp, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, keeping it ready to top the soup later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the lean ground beef to the same pot (drain excess bacon fat if needed), breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it loses its pink color and is nicely browned. This builds the heartiness of the soup and gives you that authentic cheeseburger flavor base. Once browned, remove the beef to a bowl and drain off any remaining fat to keep the soup from getting greasy.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Now, melt the butter in the pot and add your chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Let them cook gently for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant—this creates a beautiful aromatic foundation. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its yummy aroma without burning.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste. This step thickens your soup, giving it that perfect creamy body. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, then add the heavy cream, yellow mustard, diced potatoes, and the cooked ground beef. Bring everything to a boil, then lower to medium-low heat, partially covering the pot and letting it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld wonderfully.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Lemon

After simmering, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and fresh lemon juice. The cheese melts into a velvety richness while the lemon juice adds a bright, fresh highlight that balances the creamy, savory soup. If you find the soup too thick, simply add a splash of extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and generously sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon on top for that extra pop of texture and flavor.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

To make your Cheeseburger Soup really shine, add a few thoughtful garnishes. Beyond the crispy bacon topping, chopped green onions or freshly chopped parsley offer a mild freshness. A dollop of sour cream adds a lovely cool tang, mirroring the classic burger condiments. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny drizzle of hot sauce can add a welcome kick that complements the creamy base.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal in itself but pairing it with a crusty bread or soft dinner rolls provides a perfect way to soak up every last bit. A side salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully and adds balance to your meal. If you want to keep the cheeseburger vibe going, try serving some homemade pickles or a small plate of french fries alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes every meal feel special, and Cheeseburger Soup is no exception. Serve it in mini bread bowls to impress guests or ladle it over a baked potato for a fun twist. For casual occasions, individual mason jars or rustic bowls add a cozy, inviting touch. Don’t be shy to sprinkle extra shredded cheddar or crumbled bacon on top right before serving—it’s all about layers of yum!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheeseburger Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container once completely cooled to preserve its flavors and texture. The soup may thicken as it chills, so a quick stir with a splash of broth or cream before reheating helps bring it back to life.

Freezing

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that potatoes might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir often and add a little extra broth or cream if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can cause uneven heating and affect the cheese texture. Once heated through, add fresh garnishes and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I make Cheeseburger Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef and bacon with plant-based meat alternatives or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese to keep it fully vegetarian.

What cheese works best in Cheeseburger Soup?

Sharp cheddar is classic for this soup because it melts beautifully and has that familiar cheeseburger flavor. However, you can experiment with Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different tastes and creaminess levels.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the soup won’t be quite as rich and creamy as when using heavy cream. If you prefer to use milk, consider adding a bit more flour or a touch of cream cheese to help thicken and enrich the soup.

Is Cheeseburger Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be aware that the potatoes may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, although the flavors stay delicious. Thaw it slowly in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the bacon and beef first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and lemon juice) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cheese and lemon juice just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so deeply satisfying about a bowl of homemade Cheeseburger Soup—its rich, cheesy, meaty goodness is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re cooking for family or a cozy night in, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Don’t hesitate to try it soon; I promise this soup will have you smiling with every spoonful!

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