This Cheeseburger Soup recipe brings together tender ground beef, crispy turkey bacon, creamy melted cheddar, and perfectly cooked potatoes in a rich, velvety broth that tastes like pure comfort. What started as a creative way to satisfy burger cravings during cold months has evolved into a beloved family tradition that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something extraordinary.
Why Cheeseburger Soup Matters for Your Kitchen
Comfort food has deep roots in American culinary traditions, and soup variations of classic dishes have become increasingly popular among home cooks seeking convenient one-pot meal solutions. This particular recipe draws inspiration from traditional hearty soup recipes while incorporating the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger. For additional inspiration on creating perfect one-pot meals that are truly one-pot, many home cooks have found success with similar comfort food transformations. You can also explore variations like this Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home for additional techniques and flavor profiles.
The evolution of this dish represents how modern home cooking adapts beloved flavors into practical, family-friendly formats. Originally popularized in Midwestern kitchens during the 1980s, cheeseburger soup has become a staple comfort food that bridges the gap between casual dining and homestyle cooking. The genius lies in how it captures the essence of a cheeseburger while providing the warming satisfaction that only a well-crafted soup can deliver.
Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Cheeseburger Soup serves a specific purpose in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish irresistible.
Ingredient Spotlight
Turkey Bacon (5 strips, chopped): Provides the smoky, salty crunch that mimics traditional burger bacon while offering a leaner protein option. The rendered fat adds depth to the soup base.
Lean Ground Beef (1 pound): The star protein that delivers authentic burger flavor. Using lean beef prevents excessive grease while maintaining rich, meaty taste.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the luxurious, velvety texture that makes this soup feel indulgent. The fat content helps carry flavors throughout each spoonful.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Sharp cheddar provides the classic cheeseburger flavor and creates a smooth, creamy consistency when melted properly.
Russet Potatoes (1 pound, about 2 large): These starchy potatoes break down slightly during cooking, naturally thickening the soup while adding hearty substance.
Butter (4 tablespoons): Forms the base for the roux and adds richness that enhances the overall mouthfeel.
All-Purpose Flour (1/3 cup): Works with butter to create a roux that thickens the soup and prevents separation.
Chicken Broth (4 cups): Provides the liquid base and adds savory depth without competing with the beef flavors.
Yellow Mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds the tangy bite that’s essential to authentic cheeseburger flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the rich flavors and prevents the soup from feeling too heavy.
Smart Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: Replace ground beef for a lighter option
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute half the heavy cream for reduced calories
- Sweet Potatoes: Use instead of russets for added nutrition
- Vegetable Broth: Create a vegetarian version by omitting meat
- Different Cheeses: Try sharp white cheddar, Gouda, or American cheese
Perfect Timing for Cheeseburger Soup
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10 generous portions
This recipe cooks 20% faster than traditional beef stews while delivering similar comfort and satisfaction. The relatively quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cheeseburger Soup Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook the chopped turkey bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. If the pan gets too hot, reduce the heat to medium. Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to dry. Pro tip: Save those crispy bits for garnish – they add incredible texture contrast to the creamy soup.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot with the rendered bacon fat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink, using a spatula to break up the meat into small, uniform pieces. Remove it from the pot and drain any excess fat. The key here is getting good browning for maximum flavor development.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Melt butter in the same pot. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This aromatic base creates the foundation that makes the soup taste like a complete meal.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch carefully – garlic can go from perfect to burnt in seconds, and burnt garlic will make your soup bitter.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Add flour into the mixture and stir until well combined, creating a light roux. This step is crucial for preventing lumps – make sure every bit of flour is incorporated before adding liquid.
Step 6: Whisk in Broth
Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Then add heavy cream, mustard, diced potatoes, and cooked beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover partially and let simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Partial covering allows steam to escape while maintaining gentle heat.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh lemon juice. If the soup seems too thick, adjust with additional chicken broth or cream as needed. Adding cheese off heat prevents it from becoming stringy or separating.
Step 8: Season & Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into serving bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon from step one. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end – the cheese and bacon add saltiness, so you might need less salt than expected.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup Results
- Temperature Control: Remove soup from heat before adding cheese to prevent curdling and maintain smooth texture
- Potato Prep: Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking – aim for 1/2-inch cubes
- Roux Technique: Cook flour mixture for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste
- Gradual Liquid Addition: Add broth slowly while whisking to prevent lumps
- Consistency Adjustment: Keep extra broth handy for thinning if soup becomes too thick during reheating
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Add diced tomatoes, pickles, and a dollop of sour cream for extra burger authenticity.
Spicy Jalapeño Version: Include diced jalapeños with the vegetables and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Healthier Alternative: Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk and use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth while maintaining all other flavors.
Behind the Recipe
This Cheeseburger Soup was born from a desire to capture the essence of America’s favorite sandwich in a format that could feed a crowd and warm hearts during cold months. The inspiration came from watching families gather around steaming bowls, sharing stories and creating memories over comfort food that felt both familiar and special.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to transform simple, accessible ingredients into something that feels both nostalgic and innovative. Every spoonful delivers the satisfying flavors of a perfectly constructed cheeseburger while providing the warming comfort that only soup can offer.
Perfect Cheeseburger Soup Pairing Ideas
Beverages: Serve with ice-cold lemonade, sparkling apple cider, or classic chocolate milk for a fun, nostalgic combination.
Bread Options: Crusty sourdough rolls, garlic bread, or toasted brioche buns complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes: Simple green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or crispy sweet potato fries create a well-rounded meal.
Garnish Ideas: Fresh chives, extra shredded cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce add personalized finishing touches.
Leftover & Reuse Ideas
Transform leftover Cheeseburger Soup into a pasta sauce by reducing it slightly and tossing with cooked macaroni for an instant comfort meal. Use it as a base for shepherd’s pie by adding it to a casserole dish, topping with mashed potatoes, and baking until golden.
Create stuffed baked potatoes by hollowing out russets and filling them with reheated soup, then topping with extra cheese and bacon. The soup also makes an excellent filling for savory hand pies or empanadas when thickened slightly with additional flour.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate): 420 calories, 28g protein, 18g carbohydrates, 26g fat, 8g saturated fat, 95mg cholesterol, 890mg sodium, 3g fiber. This hearty soup provides substantial protein and energy while delivering essential nutrients from vegetables and dairy.
Serving Suggestions
Present this Cheeseburger Soup in warmed bowls with a generous sprinkle of crispy bacon on top. Create a soup bar by offering various toppings like shredded cheese, diced green onions, sour cream, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their bowl.
For special occasions, serve in bread bowls made from hollowed-out sourdough rounds. The presentation elevates the comfort food experience while adding an edible element that guests love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding Cheese Too Early: This causes the cheese to curdle and become stringy. Always remove from heat first.
Overcooking Potatoes: They’ll break down too much and make the soup gluey. Test with a fork for tenderness.
Insufficient Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, as cheese and bacon add significant sodium.
Rushing the Roux: Take time to cook the flour properly to avoid a raw flour taste in your finished soup.
Boiling After Adding Dairy: High heat can cause cream and cheese to separate, ruining the smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftover Cheeseburger Soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight containers. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
For freezing, store for up to 3 months, but note that dairy-based soups may separate slightly when thawed. Whisk vigorously while reheating to restore smooth texture, or blend briefly with an immersion blender if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup up to adding the cheese, then add cheese just before serving to maintain the best texture and prevent separation.
What’s the best way to prevent my Cheeseburger Soup from curdling?
Always remove the pot from heat before adding cheese, and add it gradually while stirring constantly. Use room temperature cheese for easier melting.
How can I make Cheeseburger Soup thicker?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup. Alternatively, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the pot side.
Can I use different types of cheese in Cheeseburger Soup?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar works best, but you can experiment with American cheese for milder flavor, or Gouda for a more sophisticated taste profile.
Is it possible to make Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and vegetables first, then transfer to your slow cooker with broth and potatoes. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding cream and cheese in the final 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Soup
This Cheeseburger Soup delivers everything you love about classic comfort food in a warming, satisfying bowl that brings families together. The combination of tender beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked potatoes creates a meal that’s both nostalgic and nourishing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on a cold evening or looking for a creative way to satisfy burger cravings, this soup provides the perfect solution.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and the way it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Each spoonful captures the essence of a perfect cheeseburger while providing the comfort that only a well-crafted soup can deliver.
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Cheeseburger Soup: How to Make the Best Easy Perfect Comfort Soup
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cook the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. If the pan gets too hot, reduce the heat to medium. Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to dry.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink. Use a spatula to break up the meat. Remove it from the pot and drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in the same pot. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Incorporate Flour: Add flour into the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Whisk in Broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Then add heavy cream, mustard, diced potatoes, and cooked beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover partially and let simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh lemon juice. If the soup seems too thick, adjust with additional chicken broth or cream as needed.
- Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into serving bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon from step one. Enjoy!