Creamy Beef and Cheddar Soup – A Hearty One-Pot Meal

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Beef Soup on a cold day. This Cheeseburger Soup is everything you love about a classic cheeseburger—savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, tender potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth—all transformed into a cozy, satisfying dish. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners, game nights, or when you just need something filling and delicious.

The first time I made this soup, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. I had been craving a cheeseburger but didn’t feel like firing up the grill. Instead, I decided to try something different and combine those same flavors into a soup. I tossed in some ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, potatoes for heartiness, and a touch of sour cream for richness. The result? A creamy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying bowl of goodness that quickly became a family favorite.

What makes this soup so amazing is its versatility and ease. It’s an all-in-one meal that doesn’t require much effort, yet it delivers big, bold flavors. You can make it in just 35 minutes using pantry staples, and it’s completely customizable—add crispy beef bacon, spicy jalapeños, or even a handful of pickles for a true cheeseburger experience.

If you love classic comfort food but want something new and exciting, this Cheeseburger Soup is the recipe for you. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors, making it a must-try meal for any occasion. Keep reading to discover why this soup deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Soup Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Cheeseburger Soup. Whether you’re a soup lover, a cheese fanatic, or just someone who appreciates a good, hearty meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

• Easy and Quick to Make – This soup comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Super Creamy and Cheesy – The combination of cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream creates a luscious, velvety texture that’s irresistible.
• Packed with Flavor – With savory beef, buttery potatoes, onions, and garlic, every bite is full of deep, comforting flavors.
• Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this soup because it tastes just like a cheeseburger in a bowl.
• One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
• Easily Customizable – You can make it spicy, smoky, low-carb, or even dairy-free with a few simple swaps.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – It stores and reheats well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

If you’re looking for a rich, hearty, and satisfying soup that delivers bold cheeseburger flavors, this is the recipe for you.

Health Benefits of Creamy Beef Soup

While this soup is indulgent, it also comes with some surprising health benefits when prepared with the right ingredients.

1. High in Protein – The ground beef provides plenty of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle growth.
2. Rich in Calcium – The cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream add a healthy dose of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
3. Loaded with Vegetables – With carrots, onions, and potatoes, this soup delivers important vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
4. Provides Healthy Fats – When using lean ground beef and quality dairy products, you get nutrient-dense fats that help sustain energy levels.
5. Can Be Made Lighter – Use low-fat dairy, lean ground beef, or swap potatoes for cauliflower to create a healthier version.

By balancing nutritious ingredients with indulgent flavors, this Cheeseburger Soup can be both comforting and nourishing.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 hearty bowls

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g

These numbers can vary depending on ingredient choices, but overall, this soup is hearty, filling, and nutrient-rich.

Ingredients List

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean for a lighter version)
• 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
• ½ cup onion, finely diced
• ½ cup carrots, shredded
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)

For the Cheesy Finish:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for bold flavor)
• ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings:

• Crumbled beef bacon
• Diced pickles
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Croutons or toasted buns

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavors and textures of the soup.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

 1: Brown the Beef

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.

 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, melt butter and add onions, carrots, and garlic.
• Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become soft and translucent.

 3: Cook the Potatoes

• Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the salt, pepper, and broth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

 4: Make It Creamy

• Stir in the milk and cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely into the soup.
• Add the cooked beef back into the pot and mix well.

 5: Add the Final Touch

• Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Simmer for another 5 minutes to let all the flavors blend beautifully.

 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the hot, cheesy soup into bowls.
• Top with crispy bacon, pickles, parsley, or croutons for extra texture and flavor.

How to Serve this Creamy Beef Soup

This Cheeseburger Soup is satisfying and flavorful on its own, but you can take it to the next level with some delicious serving ideas. Whether you want a classic pairing or something unique, here are some great ways to enjoy this creamy, cheesy dish.

Classic Serving Ideas

• Toasted Burger Buns: What’s a cheeseburger without a bun? Serve this soup with buttered, toasted buns on the side for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of this soup.
• Cheesy Croutons: Top your bowl with crispy croutons made from toasted bread and melted cheese for extra crunch.
• Fresh Salad: Balance the richness with a simple side salad of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Fun Toppings to Elevate Your Soup

• Crumbled Beef Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy touch.
• Diced Pickles: A surprising but delicious addition that enhances the cheeseburger flavor.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
• Green Onions or Chives: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Jalapeños: For a spicy kick that takes the soup to another level.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A small dollop makes it even creamier.

Low-Carb Serving Options

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try these alternatives:

• Serve over steamed cauliflower rice instead of pairing with bread.
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a more nutrient-dense meal.
• Use a small amount of crushed whole-grain crackers instead of croutons.

This soup is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences.

Pairing Suggestions of this Creamy Beef Soup

To make your meal even more enjoyable, pair Cheeseburger Soup with complementary sides and drinks.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup

• Crispy French Fries: The ultimate cheeseburger side, oven-baked or air-fried for a crispy crunch.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing for any creamy soup, making it extra cheesy and delicious.
• Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw adds contrast to the rich and creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers balances out the meal.

Best Drinks to Serve with Cheeseburger Soup

• Sparkling Lemonade: The citrusy tang refreshes your palate.
• Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea or green tea complements the cheeseburger flavors.
• Creamy Milkshakes: A fun twist—chocolate or vanilla milkshakes bring a classic diner feel to your meal.

No matter how you serve it, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit!

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about Cheeseburger Soup is that it stores and reheats beautifully. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep or saving leftovers, follow these storage tips to keep your soup fresh.

 Store Cheeseburger Soup

• Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Over-Thickening: As the soup sits, it may thicken due to the cheese and potatoes. You can add a little milk or broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

 Freeze Cheeseburger Soup

• Cool the Soup Completely: Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Portion It Out: Divide into individual portions for easy thawing and reheating.
• Freeze for Up to 3 Months: Properly stored, this soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Avoid Freezing with Dairy: If planning to freeze, leave out the milk and sour cream, and add them when reheating.

 Reheat Cheeseburger Soup

• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid uneven heating.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1-2 hours for an easy, hands-off option.

By following these tips, your soup will taste just as fresh and delicious as when it was first made.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on this Creamy Beef Soup Rrecipe

To ensure the best results, avoid these common mistakes when making Cheeseburger Soup:

1. Using High Heat for the Dairy

Heating milk or cheese too quickly can cause it to curdle or turn grainy. Always add dairy ingredients on low heat and stir continuously.

2. Not Draining Excess Grease

If using ground beef with higher fat content, drain the grease after cooking to prevent an overly oily soup.

3. Overcooking the Potatoes

Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy and cause the soup to lose texture. Check for doneness with a fork after 15 minutes.

4. Adding Cheese Too Early

Cheese should be added at the end of cooking to prevent separation. Let it melt gently for a smooth and creamy texture.

5. Freezing the Soup with Dairy

Milk and cheese don’t freeze well and may separate when reheated. If freezing, leave them out and add fresh dairy when reheating.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll get a perfectly creamy, flavorful Cheeseburger Soup every time.

Pro Tips of this Creamy Beef Soup

Want to take your soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips to make it even better.

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated cheddar for the best texture.

2. Sauté the Vegetables for More Flavor

Instead of just boiling the potatoes and carrots, sautéing them first develops a richer, deeper flavor.

3. Add a Dash of Mustard for a Classic Burger Taste

A small amount of Dijon mustard or yellow mustard gives the soup an authentic cheeseburger-like flavor.

4. Blend Part of the Soup for Extra Creaminess

If you prefer an ultra-thick texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese.

5. Adjust Thickness with Broth or Cream

For a thinner soup, add extra broth. For a richer texture, stir in half-and-half or heavy cream at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Cheeseburger Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except dairy. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then stir in cheese and sour cream at the end.

2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

This soup is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your broth and any added toppings are certified gluten-free.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and still delivers great flavor.

4. What’s the best cheese for this soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese works best for flavor and melting, but you can mix in Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variety.

5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion & Call to Action of this Creamy Beef Soup

This Cheeseburger Soup is warm, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, making it the ultimate family-friendly meal. With savory beef, gooey cheese, tender potatoes, and rich broth, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your experience in the comments below, and if you take a picture, tag me on social media. Enjoy your cozy, delicious, and satisfying bowl of Cheeseburger Soup!

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