Name: Cheeseburger Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Burger-Inspired Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; ¾ cup chopped onion; ¾ cup shredded carrots; ¾ cup diced celery; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 cups chicken broth; 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 1¾ pounds); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 12 ounces cubed pepper jack Velveeta; 1½ cups milk; ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup sour cream

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the rich, savory taste of a cheeseburger with the comforting warmth of a soup. It’s a family favorite that’s both satisfying and simple to make. The blend of seasoned beef, creamy broth, and melted cheese creates a deliciously cozy meal that I can enjoy any time of the year.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
¾ cup chopped onion
¾ cup shredded carrots
¾ cup diced celery
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
4 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cups chicken broth
4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 1¾ pounds)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
12 ounces cubed pepper jack Velveeta
1½ cups milk
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup sour cream

Directions

In a 3-quart saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain and set aside.
In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, dried basil, and parsley. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced potatoes and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
In a small skillet, melt the remaining butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 3-5 minutes until it becomes bubbly. Add this mixture to the soup and bring it to a boil. Stir and cook for 2 minutes until it thickens.
Reduce the heat and add the cubed cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from heat and blend in the sour cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes, totaling approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Cheese Options: I sometimes substitute pepper jack Velveeta with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Meat Alternatives: Instead of ground beef, I use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, I replace the beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
Spicy Kick: Adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes gives the soup a spicy twist.

Storage and Reheating

I store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup has thickened, I add a splash of broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes, I can freeze this soup. I let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop.

What can I serve with this soup?

I enjoy serving this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, I can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. I sauté the vegetables and beef as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. I add the broth and cook on low for 4-6 hours. I stir in the milk, cheese, and sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Is there a low-fat version of this soup?

To make a lighter version, I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of cheese. I also opt for lean cuts of beef or ground turkey.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! I sometimes add diced tomatoes, spinach, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the classic sandwich flavors into a warm, creamy bowl. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for satisfying my cravings on a cold day. Whether I’m serving it to family or enjoying a bowl on my own, this soup is always a hit.