Cheeseburger Soup: A Family-Friendly Meal for Busy Parents
Let’s be real—busy parents need meals that check a few key boxes: they have to be quick, easy to prepare, kid-approved, and, most importantly, delicious. This cheeseburger soup does all that and more! It’s a cozy, satisfying bowl of creamy goodness that brings the flavors of a cheeseburger into a comforting soup.
Whether you’re juggling homework, soccer practice, or just trying to keep up with life’s demands, this recipe will make you feel like the superstar of weeknight dinners.
Why Cheeseburger Soup is a Busy Parent’s Best Friend
First off, this soup is a one-pot wonder. That means fewer dishes to wash, which is a win for anyone trying to manage post-dinner chaos.
It’s also packed with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge—ground beef, potatoes, carrots, milk, and cheese. Nothing fancy, just classic flavors that come together in a way your whole family will love.
And here’s the kicker: it’s customizable! Picky eater? No problem—leave out the pickles or adjust the seasoning to suit their tastes. Have a kid who won’t touch vegetables? They’ll hardly notice the carrots and potatoes once they’re nestled in that creamy, cheesy broth.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
Making a great soup is all about the little details that take it from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, these simple tips will ensure your cheeseburger soup turns out perfectly every time
- Prep in Advance: Chop your veggies the night before to save time when dinner rolls around. You can also pre-cook the ground beef and store it in the fridge for up to two days.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, but it often has additives that prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest soup, take a few extra minutes to shred a block of cheddar yourself.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: Adding flour to the butter and vegetables might seem like an extra step, but it’s key to creating a thick, velvety base for the soup.
- Avoid Boiling After Adding Dairy: Once you add the milk and cream, keep the soup at a low simmer to prevent curdling.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup
This soup is versatile enough to serve as a standalone meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:
- Toasted Burger Buns: Slice up some burger buns, brush them with butter, and toast them for dunking.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Fries or Chips: Why not go all-in on the burger theme? Serve the soup alongside baked fries or a handful of potato chips.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and trust me, this soup tends to disappear fast), they’re easy to store and reheat:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cheeseburger soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creaminess.
Recipe Variations to Try
This soup is wonderfully forgiving, so don’t be afraid to get creative:
- Add More Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or diced zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Switch Up the Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup instead of all-purpose flour.
- Taco Twist: Mix in taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex flair.
Cheeseburger Soup: A Hearty, Family-Friendly Meal for Busy Parents
6
servings15
minutes30
minutesWarm, creamy, and loaded with the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, this cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich cheddar cheese base, every spoonful is a cozy, satisfying bite. Garnish it with bacon, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley for a bowl that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 c chicken or beef broth
1 c whole milk
1 c heavy cream
2 c shredded cheddar cheese, to be divided
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 c diced dill pickles (optional but adds a great tangy crunch)
1/4 c crumbled bacon (for garnish)
fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add the diced carrots and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the browned ground beef back into the pot.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and heavy cream.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the soup is creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Stir in the diced pickles if using for a tangy kick.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm with crusty bread or burger buns on the side.
Notes
- For an extra “burger-like” experience, serve with toasted buns on the side or croutons made from burger buns.
A Dish That Brings Families Together
There’s something about a hearty soup that brings people to the table, and cheeseburger soup is no exception. It’s warm, filling, and loaded with nostalgic flavors that remind you of backyard BBQs and diner classics. Your kids will love the cheeseburger vibes, and you’ll love how easy it is to make and customize.
The next time you’re staring into your fridge, wondering what to make, remember this recipe. It’s fast, it’s flexible, and it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Who knows? It might just become a new family favorite.
While you are here, be sure to check out these other great soup recipes!
Hearty Beef Barley Soup Recipe
Perfect Drop Dumplings for Soup or Stew: A Comfort Food Staple
Easy Lemon Rice Soup – Delicious and Ready in Under 30 Minutes!
A Simple Cheese and Potato Soup Recipe You Can’t Resist
Creamy Carrot Soup: A Simple Recipe That Packs a Punch
Hearty Hamburger Soup: A Family Recipe That Hits the Spot
Corn Chowder Made Easy: A Hearty, Family-Friendly Soup Recipe
Why You Should Make Your Own Chicken Stock: A Kitchen Essential
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