Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

This cheeseburger soup transforms America's favorite sandwich into a cozy, comforting bowl that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. The combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese broth creates that unmistakable cheeseburger flavor in every spoonful.

I first made this soup during a particularly cold winter when my family was craving something comforting yet different from our usual rotation. It was such a hit that it immediately earned permanent status in our dinner lineup. My children now request "burger soup" almost weekly during the colder months.

Ingredients

• Ground beef provides the classic burger flavor and hearty protein
• Onion and garlic create the aromatic foundation
• Beef broth enhances the meaty flavor
• Potatoes add heartiness and help thicken the soup naturally
• Carrots bring sweetness and color
• Elbow macaroni makes it filling and fun to eat
• Cheddar cheese creates that unmistakable cheeseburger taste
• Milk adds creaminess without heaviness
• Worcestershire sauce delivers that special umami quality that makes burgers irresistible
• Olive oil or butter for sautéing
• Salt and pepper for seasoning to your preference
• Sesame seed dinner rolls make it feel like a complete cheeseburger experience
• Green onions or parsley brighten the rich flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally. Look for the onions to become translucent with slight golden edges. This foundational step builds flavor that will permeate the entire soup.

Brown the Beef

Add minced garlic and ground beef to the softened onions. Break the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon while it cooks. Continue cooking until no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. If using higher fat ground beef drain excess grease leaving just enough to carry the flavors.

Cook the Vegetables

Pour in beef broth and add diced potatoes carrots and macaroni. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially and cook for 15 to 20 minutes stirring occasionally until potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork and pasta is tender.

Add Dairy and Seasoning

Reduce heat to low and stir in milk and Worcestershire sauce. Warm through gently for about 2 minutes but avoid boiling which can cause the milk to separate. The milk creates the creamy base that distinguishes this from standard beef soups.

Finish with Cheese

Remove pot from heat and add shredded cheddar a handful at a time stirring until completely melted before adding more. This gradual addition ensures a smooth texture without clumping. Season with salt and pepper adjusting to taste.

Serve Immediately

Ladle into bowls while hot and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve alongside warm sesame seed dinner rolls to complete the cheeseburger experience.

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The Worcestershire sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its importance accidentally when I once doubled the amount called for. That happy mistake created such depth of flavor that I never went back to the original measurement. It adds that certain something that makes you think "Yes this really does taste like a cheeseburger!"

Make Ahead and Storage

This soup actually improves with time as the flavors meld together overnight. You can prepare it up to two days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. When reheating bring it back to temperature slowly over medium low heat adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. The macaroni will continue absorbing liquid so your leftovers may be thicker than the original serving.

Customize Your Bowl

Part of what makes this soup so popular in my household is how customizable it is just like a real burger. Create a topping bar with crispy bacon bits pickle relish diced tomatoes extra shredded cheese and even crispy french fries for crumbling on top. My teenage son loves adding a squirt of ketchup and mustard to his bowl while my daughter prefers extra cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Perfect Pairings

While this soup is hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal I find a simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness. During summer months serve smaller portions alongside grilled vegetables or corn on the cob. For entertaining serve in bread bowls made from sourdough rounds with the centers hollowed out the ultimate cheeseburger soup experience.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this cheeseburger soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the dairy components, then add milk and cheese when reheating.

→ What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni?

You can substitute any small pasta shape like shells, ditalini, or small farfalle. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower florets, or simply omit the pasta and add extra vegetables.

→ How can I make this soup healthier?

Use lean ground beef (90% or higher) or substitute ground turkey. Replace the whole milk with reduced-fat milk, and use reduced-fat cheese. You can also increase the vegetables and reduce the pasta portion.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef, onions, and garlic first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the broth, potatoes, and carrots. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes, and stir in the milk and cheese just before serving.

→ What toppings work well with cheeseburger soup?

Try classic burger toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, additional shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or even croutons made from sesame seed buns. A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess.

→ Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The soup won't be quite as creamy but will still have great flavor from the beef and vegetables.