Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe

Warm, creamy, and bursting with all the classic flavors of a loaded cheeseburger, Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. This hearty dish features savory ground beef, tender cubed potatoes, crisp vegetables, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce that brings everything together perfectly. It’s the kind of soup that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and has everyone gathering around the table with empty bowls ready.

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of textures—meaty, creamy, with soft potatoes and just the right amount of vegetable crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a chilly evening or feeding hungry family members, this Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe is as simple to make as it is delicious. Top it with your favorite burger additions like crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese for a colorful, customizable meal that tastes exactly like your favorite cheeseburger.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe

• All-in-one meal: Everything you love about a cheeseburger and fries, reimagined as a cozy, satisfying soup.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults both adore the familiar cheeseburger flavors in this comforting format.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that most people already have in their pantry and fridge.
• Perfect for meal prep: Makes a large batch that reheats beautifully throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Customizable toppings: Just like a real burger, you can load it up with all your favorite fixings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)

Before diving into this delicious Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make everything smoother—from prep to serving.

Essential Tools & Why You Need Them:

Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot (6-8 quart)
This is essential for this recipe. It provides plenty of room for all the ingredients and distributes heat evenly for perfect simmering.

Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula
Perfect for stirring the soup, breaking up ground beef, and scraping flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.

Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
For dicing potatoes, chopping vegetables, and preparing toppings like pickles, bacon, or green onions.

Measuring Cups & Spoons
Precision matters—especially for the cheese, flour, and liquid ratios to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Potato Peeler (optional)
If you prefer peeled potatoes in your soup, though leaving skins on adds nutrition and texture.

Ladle
For serving generous portions of this hearty Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe into bowls.

Having these items prepped and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

Preparation Tips

• Dice potatoes uniformly into ½-inch cubes so they cook evenly—no raw or mushy pieces.
• Brown the beef thoroughly and drain excess fat to prevent a greasy soup base.
• Don’t skip the roux step—this flour and butter mixture is what creates that thick, creamy texture.
• Add cheese gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumping and ensure smooth melting.
• Simmer gently, don’t boil once dairy is added—high heat can cause the soup to separate or curdle.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly before serving.

These small touches make a big difference in achieving restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients for This Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this bold, satisfying soup to life. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it both economical and convenient for any night of the week.

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Cheese & Finishing:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded American cheese (for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for tanginess)

Optional Toppings:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Diced dill pickles
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced green onions
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Croutons or oyster crackers

Everything in this list balances flavor and texture—the hearty potatoes and beef pair beautifully with the rich, cheesy base. The toppings are optional but give the soup that authentic cheeseburger experience.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary and remove beef to a plate.

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth

Return the cooked beef to the pot with the vegetables. Add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken or beef broth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

While the soup simmers, prepare the roux in a separate small saucepan. Melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Add Cheese

Pour the creamy milk mixture into the soup pot with the beef and potatoes. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and American cheese, stirring constantly until completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

If using sour cream, stir it in now for added tanginess and richness. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Let the Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe simmer on low for another 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top generously with crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, or extra cheese as desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Notes

Potato Options: Russet potatoes work best for their starchy texture, but Yukon gold or red potatoes also work well and add a buttery flavor.

Cheese Variations: Mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick, or use all cheddar if you prefer. Pre-shredded cheese works but freshly shredded melts smoother.

Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn for extra vegetables and nutrition.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cutting potatoes too large: Big chunks take forever to cook and can remain hard while everything else overcooks. Stick to ½-inch cubes.
• Boiling instead of simmering: Vigorous boiling breaks down potatoes too much and can cause dairy to separate. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Adding cheese to boiling soup: High heat causes cheese to become grainy and separate. Always reduce to low heat first.
• Not draining the beef properly: Excess grease makes the soup oily and unappetizing. Drain well for the best results.
• Skipping the roux: Without this thickening step, your Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe will be thin and watery instead of rich and creamy.
• Using pre-shredded cheese without caution: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. Freshly shredded is always better.
• Overcooking the vegetables: They should be tender but not mushy. Watch the timing carefully for best texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Soup needs more seasoning than you think. Taste frequently and adjust throughout cooking.

What to Serve With Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe?

This hearty soup is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you want something crunchy or light, there’s a perfect accompaniment for every preference.

8 Delicious Recommendations:

Garlic Bread or Cheese Bread
Crusty, buttery bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy, cheesy soup and soaking up every drop.

Simple House Salad
Fresh mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and ranch dressing add a cool, crisp contrast to the rich soup.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
These add that classic burger-and-fries feel while providing a slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory soup.

Coleslaw
Crunchy cabbage slaw with a tangy dressing mimics the fresh crunch of lettuce on a burger.

Dill Pickle Spears
Serve them on the side for that authentic burger experience—the tanginess cuts through the richness perfectly.

Soft Pretzel Bites with Mustard
Warm, salted pretzels bring a fun, pub-style element that pairs beautifully with this comfort soup.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized and crispy, they add a healthy, flavorful vegetable option to balance the indulgent soup.

Chocolate Milkshake (for dessert)
Complete the burger joint experience with a thick, cold milkshake for a sweet finish.

These pairings help round out the meal and bring that classic American diner experience to your dinner table.

Storage Instructions

Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe tastes even better the next day—and it stores beautifully for easy meal prep.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, cool the soup completely and portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1 inch of space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that cream-based soups can sometimes separate slightly when frozen, but stirring while reheating usually brings it back together.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.

Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a tablespoon of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

Please note this is an approximate breakdown and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	465
Protein	26g
Carbohydrates	32g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sugar	7g
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	13g
Unsaturated Fat	10g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	890mg

This dish delivers a hearty balance of protein, carbs, and fats—perfect for a filling lunch or dinner that keeps you satisfied for hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. The soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Make it fully, cool, and refrigerate for up to 4 days before reheating.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives. Season generously to maintain that bold cheeseburger flavor.

3. Is this soup very heavy?
The base recipe is rich and creamy. You can lighten it by using 2% milk instead of whole milk, reducing the cheese slightly, or skipping the sour cream.

4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything except the cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the cheese during the last 30 minutes.

5. What if I don’t have American cheese?
No problem. Use all cheddar, or substitute with Velveeta, Colby, or Monterey Jack for different but equally delicious results.

6. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening, and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

7. Can I add bacon directly to the soup?
Of course. Cook bacon first, crumble it, and stir half into the soup while reserving the rest for topping. This adds smoky depth throughout.

8. How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart?
Don’t overcook them—test with a fork at 12 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape. Gentle stirring also helps maintain integrity.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe is the ultimate comfort food fusion—all the flavors of your favorite burger and fries, transformed into one warm, satisfying bowl. With its hearty beef, tender potatoes, and rich cheese sauce, it’s everything you love about classic American comfort food in an easy-to-make soup.

Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in, this Cheeseburger Soup with Potatoes Recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, with endless topping possibilities, you can customize it to everyone’s taste every single time. So grab your soup pot and make dinner something everyone will be excited about.