Save This hearty Loaded Cheeseburger Soup transforms America's favorite sandwich into a comforting bowl of warmth that my family requests at least twice a month during the colder seasons. The rich, creamy broth loaded with tender beef, potatoes, and melty cheese delivers all the satisfaction of a great burger but in spoonable form.
I first created this recipe when my children were going through a picky eating phase. The familiar burger flavors won them over instantly, and it's since become our go to comfort food for Friday movie nights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The foundation of any good cheeseburger. Look for 80/20 lean to fat ratio for best flavor without excessive grease.
- Yellow onion and garlic: These aromatics build the flavor base. Choose firm onions with tight, papery skin.
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy quality helps thicken the soup naturally. Select potatoes free of green spots or sprouts.
- Carrots and celery: Classic soup vegetables that add sweetness and texture. Organic varieties often have better flavor.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the authentic cheeseburger taste. Freshly grated melts much better than pre shredded.
- Whole milk and sour cream: Creates the creamy richness. Full fat dairy makes this soup truly indulgent.
- Butter and flour: Forms the roux that thickens our soup. European style butter adds extra richness.
- Worcestershire sauce and yellow mustard: These condiments bring authentic burger flavor. They're the secret ingredients that make people ask for the recipe.
- Bacon and traditional burger toppings: Transforms a good soup into an extraordinary experience. Thick cut bacon provides the best texture and flavor.
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat your Dutch oven over medium high heat until hot. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes. The meat should develop some browned bits for maximum flavor. Drain excess fat if there's more than a tablespoon or two.
- Create the Flavor Base:
- Melt butter in the same pot with the beef. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant. The vegetables should become translucent but not browned.
- Form the Roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture and stir constantly for a full minute. The flour needs to cook to remove any raw taste. The mixture will look paste like and coat the vegetables completely. This step is crucial for a smooth, thickened soup.
- Build the Soup:
- Gradually pour in the broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then add milk in a slow stream, continuing to whisk. Add potatoes, corn, and tomatoes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, being careful not to let it boil vigorously which could cause the dairy to separate.
- Develop Flavors:
- Return the beef to the pot and add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The potatoes should be soft but still hold their shape.
- Add the Cheese:
- Lower the heat to prevent breaking the cheese sauce. Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted before adding more. This gradual approach ensures a smooth texture without clumping.
- Finish with Creaminess:
- Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The soup should be rich and flavorful with a perfect balance of tanginess from the sour cream.
Save The Worcestershire sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. Just that single teaspoon transforms the flavor profile completely, adding that umami quality that makes you think of a perfectly grilled burger. My son once asked if I had hidden actual hamburgers in the soup because the flavor was so spot on.
Storage and Reheating
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight as they have time to meld together. When reheating, do so gently over medium low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk if the soup has thickened too much during storage. I recommend not freezing this soup due to the dairy content, which can separate and become grainy when thawed.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this soup is how customizable it is, just like your favorite burger. Try these variations to make it uniquely yours:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick
- Add a tablespoon of pickle juice to the broth for an authentic burger taste
- For a lower carb option, substitute cauliflower for half the potatoes
- Make it extra decadent with a drizzle of burger sauce on top made from mayo, ketchup, and relish
Serving Suggestions
While this soup is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, I love to pair it with some complementary sides:
- Toasted brioche buns cut into croutons
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
- Sweet potato fries for dipping
- Pickle spears on the side for that authentic burger experience
For entertaining, set up a toppings bar and let guests customize their bowls. Kids especially love this interactive approach to dinner.
From Stovetop to Slow Cooker
This recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. Brown the beef and vegetables as directed, then transfer to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients except the cheese, sour cream, and toppings. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the cheese until melted, then the sour cream just before serving.
Save Enjoy this delicious and comforting Loaded Cheeseburger Soup as a fulfilling meal any night of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and substitute the butter and sour cream with vegan versions.
- → What are the best toppings for serving?
Try crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, green onions, and pickle slices for classic cheeseburger flavor.
- → Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, equally delicious option.
- → How can I thicken the soup without flour?
Omit the flour and use a cornstarch slurry or mash some of the potatoes while simmering for a gluten-free version.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare in advance, cool fully, and refrigerate. Reheat gently and add fresh toppings before serving.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve alongside toasted buns, croutons, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.