Craving all the comfort of a cheeseburger but in soup form? This Homemade Cheeseburger Soup is everything you want on a cold day—rich, creamy, cheesy, and hearty enough to stand as a full meal. With chunks of tender potato, savory ground beef, crisp bacon, and melted cheddar in every spoonful, it’s the cozy answer to both burger and soup cravings.

What makes this soup a favorite is its perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. It brings the flavor of a backyard burger straight to your bowl, with a creamy broth that hugs every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers both comfort and satisfaction in equal measure.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best texture and flavor for your Homemade Cheeseburger Soup, having the right tools matters:

Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: This is essential for sautéing the ground beef and building the soup base. Its wide bottom allows for even heat distribution.
Cutting Board and Sharp Chef’s Knife: You’ll be prepping potatoes, onions, and bacon. A good knife ensures clean cuts and safer prep.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for breaking up beef and stirring without scratching your pot.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For getting just the right amount of cream, broth, and cheese.
Ladle: A ladle makes it easy to serve the soup without mess.

Optional but helpful:

Potato Peeler: Speeds up the potato prep.
Immersion Blender (if you prefer a smoother texture): You can blend a portion of the soup to make it extra creamy while still keeping chunks.

Ingredients for the Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

Each ingredient in this soup plays a role in building flavor and creating that familiar cheeseburger-in-a-bowl experience:

Ground Beef: The foundation of the soup, bringing rich, savory notes and that classic cheeseburger essence.
Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky depth and some texture to contrast the creamy broth.
Potatoes: These give the soup body and bite—they soak up flavor and make it satisfying.
Onion: Provides an aromatic base that blends beautifully with the beef.
Carrots: Add a slight sweetness and balance to the richness.
Garlic: Boosts the umami and adds warmth to the overall flavor.
Chicken or Beef Broth: Forms the soup’s base and keeps it savory.
Heavy Cream: Gives the soup its indulgent creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the soup for that iconic cheeseburger flavor.
Butter & Flour: Used to create a quick roux that thickens the soup to a velvety finish.
Salt, Pepper, and Paprika: For seasoning and depth.
Green Onions (optional): Great for a fresh, crunchy garnish.

How To Make the Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned. Break it up with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. Once done, transfer the beef to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

Using the same pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, reserving about 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Add chopped onion, garlic, and carrots to the bacon fat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Make the Roux

In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly. Stir this roux into the soup to thicken it.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream, add the cheddar cheese, and return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir until cheese is fully melted and everything is well combined.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt, pepper, and paprika as needed. Garnish with crispy bacon bits and green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Serving and Storing Your Homemade Cheeseburger Soup

This soup is best served hot, ladled into deep bowls, and topped with extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon crumbles, and a scatter of chopped green onions for a pop of freshness. A side of crusty bread or buttery toast turns it into a soul-warming meal.

If you’re meal-prepping or making extra, Homemade Cheeseburger Soup stores beautifully. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to reincorporate the cream and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of potatoes work best in cheeseburger soup?

Yukon Golds or Russets are ideal because they hold their shape well while still becoming tender and creamy.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat slowly to avoid curdling the cream.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk, and use lean ground turkey instead of beef. It won’t be as rich but still flavorful.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Definitely. If you’re short on time, store-bought cooked bacon works. Just crumble it over the soup before serving.

How do I thicken the soup without flour?

You can use cornstarch (mixed with a bit of water) or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a natural thickening effect.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Diced bell peppers, celery, or corn can easily be added to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.

Want More Comfort Food Soup Ideas?

If you loved this Homemade Cheeseburger Soup, there’s more creamy, cozy comfort waiting for you:

You might also enjoy the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, packed with hearty florets and cheesy goodness. For a meaty, slow-cooked option, the Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup brings rustic flavor in every bite.

For those who like a spicy twist, try the Cajun Potato Soup that layers smoky heat with creamy richness. If you’re in the mood for something unique, the Comforting Shepherd’s Pie Soup offers a deconstructed version of the classic casserole in spoonable form.

And for a protein-packed variation, don’t miss the Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup, full of bold seasoning and a satisfying orzo base.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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When you make it, come back and share your experience. Did you add any veggies? Try a different cheese? Leave a comment below and let’s chat about your twist on it!

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