Rich Cheeseburger Soup is like your favorite cheeseburger turned into a warm, creamy bowl of comfort. It’s packed with ground beef, melty cheese, tender potatoes, and just the right amount of spices to make it feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day. The blend of cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients makes it stand out as a satisfying and filling dish.
I love making this soup when I want something easy but special, especially on weekends when there’s time to let it simmer and really bring out those flavors. I think the best part is how the cheese melts into the broth, creating that smooth, rich texture that makes you want seconds. I like to brown the beef well because that adds a nice depth to the soup, and sometimes I toss in a little extra sharp cheddar for an extra cheesy punch.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this soup is with a crunchy piece of crusty bread on the side—it’s perfect for dipping and soaking up all the cheesy, beefy goodness. It’s the kind of recipe that everyone in the family asks for again and again, and it’s just so easy to make in one pot. Whenever I serve it, I feel like I’m sharing a bit of that comfort and warmth that only a good cheeseburger can bring, but in soup form!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the soup, providing rich flavor and a meaty texture. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder.
Bacon: Adds smokiness and depth. If you want to skip the pork, smoked turkey bacon or a dash of smoked paprika can give a similar effect.
Potatoes: They make the soup hearty and filling. Russet or Yukon gold are great for holding their shape. Sweet potatoes can be an interesting twist, adding natural sweetness.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong, cheesy flavor. You can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella if you want a milder, creamier taste.
Heavy cream: Key for the soup’s creamy texture. For a lighter soup, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the soup will be less rich.
How Do You Get Extra Creamy, Smooth Soup Without Clumps?
Adding cheese to soup can be tricky; it might clump or separate if not done right. Here’s what I do:
- Lower the soup’s heat before adding cheese. High heat can cause the cheese to seize and clump.
- Add cheese gradually, stirring constantly so it melts evenly into the warm liquid.
- Use freshly shredded cheese; pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- If the soup looks too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Be patient—allow the soup to gently warm and melt the cheese fully before serving.
This way, your soup stays velvety and cheesy without lumps.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all the ingredients in one place and simmering the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon – helps you stir the soup without scratching your pot and gives good control while breaking up the beef.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – for chopping the bacon, onion, garlic, potatoes, and other veggies safely and quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of broth, cream, cheese, and seasonings for the best flavor.
- Ladle – lets you serve the soup easily and cleanly into bowls without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish while keeping the protein boost.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies and a bit of extra texture and earthiness.
- Use pepper jack or smoked gouda cheese for a spicy or smoky twist that changes up the cheesy flavor.
- Stir in cooked pasta or small macaroni for a cheeseburger macaroni soup feel that’s more filling.
Rich Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ½ cup carrots, diced (optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Rich Cheeseburger Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook. In just under 45 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, cheesy soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon and Brown the Beef:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon chunks and set them aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. Next, add the ground beef to the pot and brown it over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. If there’s extra fat, drain it before continuing.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies:
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Then, stir in the diced potatoes, celery, and carrots if you’re using them. Cook everything together for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Season the soup with Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Finish with Cream and Cheese:
Turn the heat down to low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with the reserved crispy bacon, the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and comforting bowl of Rich Cheeseburger Soup—a fun twist on a classic favorite!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to adjust seasonings accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Sharp cheddar works best, but you can try pepper jack for some spice or smoked gouda for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to shred fresh cheese for smooth melting.
