Comforting Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

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Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food that brings all the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, creamy bowl. Imagine ground beef browned to perfection, swirled into a velvety cheese base, with chunks of tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and juicy tomatoes all seasoned beautifully and topped with melted cheddar. Every bite is a nostalgic nod to your favorite burger joint, but in the form of a hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly nights.

This dish is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, making it ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re in need of a little edible comfort. Pair it with crusty bread for the perfect dipping experience, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing bowl of happiness.

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Ingredients for Comforting Cheeseburger Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon

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Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 3: Simmer with Potatoes and Broth

Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, basil, parsley, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

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Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, creating a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.

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Step 5: Combine and Add Cheese

Pour the thickened milk mixture into the soup pot and stir well. Lower the heat and slowly mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust with salt if needed.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional garnishes like extra cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side for a complete, comforting meal.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 1½ cups)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Can I make Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the beef and veggies first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add the cheese and milk mixture in the last 30 minutes.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Corn, peas, or bell peppers are great additions that won’t overpower the flavor.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for the roux. Always double-check the broth and cheese for hidden gluten.

Why did my cheese clump?

Make sure your heat is low when adding the cheese, and stir constantly. Adding cheese too quickly or at high heat can cause it to separate.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts smoother. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that may affect texture.

What should I serve with Cheeseburger Soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad make excellent companions.

Is it kid-friendly?

Very! The cheesy, creamy base and familiar flavors of a cheeseburger make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

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