Easy Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

Easy Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, creamy bowl. It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for cozy nights at home. This recipe is simple to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
• Optional toppings: cooked bacon crumbles, sour cream, green onions

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), and diced green chilies (undrained).
5. Step 5: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Step 6: Add the cubed potatoes and shredded carrots.
7. Step 7: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Step 8: Remove the pot from the heat. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk or use an immersion blender until smooth.
9. Step 9: Pour in the milk and stir until well combined.
10. Step 10: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
11. Step 11: Ladle the cheeseburger soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon crumbles, sour cream, and green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or substitute diced green chilies with jalapeños for more heat.
• Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer, creamier soup.
• Leftover soup can be thickened with a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much upon cooling, add a bit of broth or milk to loosen it up.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply omit it and add extra vegetables or beans for protein.

Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.