Name: Homemade Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 1 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s something about the cozy comfort of a hot, hearty bowl of soup that makes everything feel just right—especially when it’s packed with flavor, creamy richness, and the kind of ingredients you’d find in your favorite cheeseburger. That’s what led me to make this Homemade Cheeseburger Soup. It’s the kind of dish I crave on chilly evenings when I want something filling without the hassle of a complicated recipe. One spoonful, and you’ll taste the magic: savory ground beef, tender potatoes, crunchy carrots, and the unbeatable duo of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon.

I’ve made this soup countless times, and each time it brings a smile to my face—and to the faces of anyone lucky enough to share it. It’s hearty without being heavy, rich without being overwhelming, and somehow feels both nostalgic and new. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining on the weekend, this soup wins every time.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

It’s the perfect blend of cheesy, creamy, and savory goodness.
Easy to make with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
Kid-friendly and adult-approved—everyone goes back for seconds.
Great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Customizable to your tastes with endless topping options.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using 85% lean ground beef. It has enough fat to keep the soup flavorful and rich, but not so much that it becomes greasy. If you’re using a fattier cut, be sure to drain the excess fat before adding the rest of your ingredients.

Options for Substitutions

Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative to beef, perfect if you’re looking to cut calories or fat.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the meat for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use veggie broth.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese and coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for fewer carbs and a similar texture.
Add Some Heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne if you like a spicy twist.

Ingredients for This Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

Ground beef: The foundation of the cheeseburger flavor. It brings that hearty, meaty richness we all love.
Potatoes: Adds body and texture to the soup. I use peeled russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their starchy creaminess.
Carrots: Provide natural sweetness and a pop of color. They balance out the savory flavors beautifully.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and depth to the base of the soup.
Onion: A must-have for savory aroma and flavor. Yellow or white onion works best.
Garlic: For an extra layer of depth—minced garlic really enhances the broth.
Chicken broth: Acts as the liquid base, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can use beef broth for a deeper flavor.
Butter: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds a rich, buttery finish.
All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency.
Milk and heavy cream: These make the soup extra rich and give it that luscious, creamy texture.
Cheddar cheese: The star ingredient. Sharp cheddar adds tangy cheesiness that melts perfectly into the broth.
Bacon: Crumbled on top for smoky, salty crunch.
Green onions: A fresh garnish that brightens up every bite.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic over medium heat until they soften and become fragrant. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour to Thicken

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux that will help thicken the soup.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add in the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cooked Beef

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir it into the soup. Let it simmer together with the potatoes and veggies for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in the milk and heavy cream, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup turns creamy and smooth.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions for the full cheeseburger experience.

How Long to Prepare Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

Prep Time: Most of the prep work involves chopping vegetables and browning the beef. This should take around 15–20 minutes. If you’re a fast chopper or pre-prep your veggies, you’ll move through this even quicker.

Cook Time: Once everything’s in the pot, the soup takes about 25–30 minutes to simmer, thicken, and get creamy. All in, you’re looking at roughly 45–50 minutes from start to finish for a steaming, flavorful pot of soup.

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup

Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
Use room temperature dairy. Cold milk or cream can curdle when added to hot soup, so let them sit out before adding.
Don’t overcook the potatoes. You want them tender but not falling apart—check them around the 10-minute mark.
Add cheese gradually. Stir it in slowly over low heat to avoid clumping or separating.
Top just before serving. Add bacon, green onions, and extra cheese at the end so they stay crisp and vibrant.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using high heat after adding dairy. This can cause curdling. Keep the heat low once the cream and cheese go in.
Skipping the flour roux. It’s key to getting that creamy, thick texture—don’t rush it.
Not draining the beef. Excess grease will make the soup too oily.
Overcrowding the pot. Make sure your pot is big enough to hold all ingredients without bubbling over.
Forgetting to taste and season. Always adjust salt and pepper before serving!

What to Serve With Homemade Cheeseburger Soup?

1. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Warm, fresh bread is ideal for soaking up the cheesy broth.

2. Simple Side Salad

Something light like a green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness.

3. Dill Pickles

It might sound odd, but the tangy crunch of pickles adds that classic cheeseburger contrast.

4. Garlic Toast

Buttery garlic toast brings a savory, crispy element to the meal.

5. Roasted Veggies

For a healthier twist, serve this soup with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to keep the cheese from separating.

Freezing: This soup doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy, which can become grainy when thawed. If you plan to freeze, do it before adding the cream and cheese, then add those fresh when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 510
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Cholesterol: 95mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour and double-check that your broth and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter but still delicious version of the soup.

Will this soup thicken as it sits?

Yes, it tends to thicken slightly upon standing or after refrigerating. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Is this soup spicy?

No, but you can spice it up with hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then add everything (except cheese and cream) to the slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in cheese and cream before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate blend of comfort, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re cooking up a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this soup delivers every time. With customizable ingredients, easy storage, and that irresistible cheeseburger-in-a-bowl vibe, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.