The Best Cheeseburger Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is like eating a cheeseburger in a bowl! It’s filling, flavorful, and loaded with beef and vegetables, balanced with a touch of pickle brine for tang. It’s also versatile you can make it with or without potatoes depending on your preferences. Whether served on a weeknight or at a casual gathering, this cozy soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped small
• 2–3 carrots, chopped small
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped small (optional)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1–1 ½ lbs ground beef (85/15 recommended)
• 1–1 ½ teaspoons Lawry’s seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder or onion salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2–3 small potatoes, washed and chopped (optional; omit for keto)
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 8 cups beef broth (2 quarts)
• 4–6 dill pickle spears, chopped
• 2–4 tablespoons dill pickle juice (from the jar)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred burger cheese) for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the butter and oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Season with Lawry’s seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
5. Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in chopped pickles and pickle juice. Taste and adjust seasonings.
7. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30–35 minutes, for a total of 45–50 minutes.

Variations

• Make it keto by omitting the potatoes.
• Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
• Stir in a bit of heavy cream at the end for a creamier soup.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or microwave in short intervals. The soup also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes this soup taste like a cheeseburger?

The combination of beef, cheddar cheese, pickles, and pickle juice brings all the classic cheeseburger flavors into a bowl.

Can I make this soup creamy?

Yes, stir in ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half near the end of cooking for a richer texture.

Do I have to add pickles?

No, but they add tanginess that makes the soup taste more like a burger.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Swiss, pepper jack, or American cheese also work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Will the potatoes get mushy?

If reheating, potatoes may soften more, but they will still taste great. For firmer potatoes, slightly undercook them initially.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, just peel, seed, and chop about 4–5 medium tomatoes.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and seasoning.

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, pretzels, or a crisp salad are perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

The Best Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed meal that transforms a classic favorite into a warm, comforting dish. With its savory beef, tangy pickles, and cheesy finish, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy burger lovers in a whole new way.

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