If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This creamy, cheesy soup perfectly captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the bun, turning simple pantry staples into a luscious, satisfying meal. With tender ground beef, vibrant veggies, and that velvety cheese goodness, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone around the table for seconds and leaves you dreaming of leftovers. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a white pot with blue handles, there is a single layer of browned ground meat. The meat has a crumbly texture with small, soft chunks spread evenly across the pot's base. A wooden spoon with a smooth, light brown surface is stirring the meat from the right side, its rounded end touching the meat. Faint steam rises gently above the meat, showing the cooking in progress. The background surface is white with a marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role—from the savory beef and fresh vegetables providing a wonderful foundation, to the cheese and cream lending richness that transforms it into pure comfort food perfection.

Ground beef, 1 pound: The heart of the soup, adding savory depth and protein.
Chopped onion, ¾ cup: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that softens as it cooks.
Shredded carrots, ¾ cup: Brings a subtle sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
Diced celery, ¾ cup: Adds gentle crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
Dried basil, 1 teaspoon: Infuses an herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
Dried parsley flakes, 1 teaspoon: A mild herb that contributes earthy tones and visual appeal.
Butter, 4 tablespoons divided: For sautéing and creating a luscious roux to thicken the soup.
Chicken broth, 3 cups: Forms the flavorful liquid base that brings everything together.
Peeled and diced potatoes, 4 cups: Provide heartiness and a soft, comforting texture.
All-purpose flour, ¼ cup: Key to thickening the soup into a creamy, spoonable delight.
Velveeta processed cheese cubes, 2 cups: Melts smoothly for that signature creamy cheeseburger taste (or substitute shredded cheddar for a sharper flavor).
Milk, 1 ½ cups: Lightens the texture while maintaining creaminess.
Salt, ¾ teaspoon: Enhances all the natural flavors in the soup.
Pepper, ¼ to ½ teaspoon: Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the seasoning.
Sour cream, ¼ cup: Stirred in at the end for tangy richness that makes this soup irresistible.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your 3-quart saucepan over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. The key here is to break it apart as it cooks, so every bite is evenly meaty. Once done, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside for now. This initial browning builds the savory backbone of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter to sauté the diced onions, shredded carrots, and diced celery. Add the dried parsley flakes and basil for that herby kick. Cook everything gently until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step softens the veggies and blends the herbs perfectly into the base flavors.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the peeled and diced potatoes along with the browned beef. Bring the mixture to a boil to kickstart the cooking of potatoes. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. This gentle simmer combines all the ingredients’ flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Thicken

While the potatoes are cooking, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden, creating a roux that will thicken your soup. Slowly whisk this roux into the simmering soup, bring it back to a boil, and let it cook for another 2 minutes while stirring. This transforms your broth into a beautifully thick and creamy base.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Milk, Season

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese (or shredded cheddar), milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring gently until the cheese is completely melted and the texture is silky smooth. This step achieves that irresistible creamy cheeseburger flavor that makes this soup a standout comfort classic.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the pot from heat and swirl in the sour cream for an added layer of tangy richness. This final touch brightens the soup and balances the creamy, cheesy goodness. Give everything a last gentle stir, and your delicious Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is ready to serve!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

A close-up of a large white cooking pot filled with thick, creamy yellow soup showing visible chunks of light yellow potatoes, small pieces of brown meat, green celery slices, and small orange carrot bits. A metal ladle lifts a portion of the soup, revealing the same chunky mix with flecks of black pepper on the surface. The edges of the pot show some splatters of the soup, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent finish. For some fresh contrast, finely chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits make fantastic garnishes that add texture and flavor. Don’t forget a few sprigs of fresh parsley if you want a touch of color that makes the soup even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its rich, hearty flavors. Consider serving it with warm crusty bread or buttery garlic toast to soak up every last bit. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can add some lightness to balance this decadent meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this at a gathering, get playful with presentation by ladling the soup into bread bowls for an unforgettable comfort food experience. Another fun idea is topping the soup with crushed potato chips or crispy fried onions for added crunch, reminiscent of those classic cheeseburger toppings you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers just as spectacular as the fresh batch. When storing, ensure the soup has cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover soup in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Avoid freezing the soup with sour cream already mixed in; instead, add it freshly after thawing to keep the soup silky smooth.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or scorching. If the soup is too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to return it to the perfect creamy consistency. For best results, add the sour cream after reheating to keep the flavors bright and the texture luscious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While Velveeta is great for a super smooth, creamy texture, shredded cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or even Gouda can add wonderful flavor variations. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for the best results.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup freezes well but it’s best to add the sour cream only after thawing and reheating, as sour cream can sometimes separate when frozen. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for about two months.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. While it won’t have the exact beefy flavor, it will still be rich and satisfying with the cheesy goodness.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour during the roux step or simmer uncovered a little longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner soup, simply stir in extra broth or milk when reheating until you reach your desired consistency.

What are some easy add-ins to customize this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe?

Try stirring in diced pickles, or some extra garlic for a twist. Some people love tossing in a handful of fresh spinach or corn for added color and veggies. Feel free to get creative to suit your taste buds!

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary day into something special with its rich flavors and comforting warmth. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. When you make this soup, you’re not just cooking—you’re creating happy memories over a bowl of pure deliciousness. Give it a try soon, and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.