Best 30-Minute, High-Protein Cheeseburger Soup

When a winter chill lingers outside, there’s nothing like a bowl of comforting soup to warm you up. Chocolate is to dessert what cheeseburger soup is to the savory world—irresistibly rich, warm, and deeply satisfying. This cozy dish, combining the best flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy broth, is perfect for families and cooks of all skill levels. Did you know that incorporating ground beef can boost your iron intake, helping to keep those winter blues at bay? Now, let’s jump in and whip up this delightful blend of flavors!

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Why This Cheeseburger Soup Never Fails

There’s a good reason cheeseburger soup has earned a special place in many homes. With its combination of comforting ingredients and a texture that will make you feel right at home, this dish is both child-approved and adult-friendly. It’s like biting into a delicious cheeseburger without the fuss of grilling outside or creating a mess on the stovetop. Plus, it’s a breeze to make and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a true go-to!

Ingredient Highlight

The Essentials

To craft this creamy, comforting soup, you’ll need:

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Ideal for a hearty base without being too greasy.
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning that elevates flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A perfect medium for sautéing the veggies.
• 1 sweet onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup freshly grated carrots: Brings color and a hint of natural sweetness.
• 1 cup diced celery: Offers a crunch and aromatic bite.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for flavor, adding a fragrant note.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A pinch of Mediterranean flair.
• 1 pound petite gold potatoes, quartered: Provides a creamy texture when cooked.
• 4 to 5 cups chicken stock: The base that pulls all the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness and help in thickening.
• 3 tablespoons flour: A thickening agent that creates that comforting soup base.
• 1 cup milk: Creaminess without weighing it down.
• 16 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that classic cheeseburger flavor.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• Freshly chopped chives, for serving: A bright finish to the bowl, both visually and in flavor.

Cooking Method

Let’s Cook

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s bring everything together:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. (Tip: Stir occasionally to avoid browning too quickly.)
3. Add garlic and oregano to the pot. Cook for another minute, allowing those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
4. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add quartered potatoes and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes. (Tip: A gentle simmer helps meld flavors better.)
5. In a separate small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, forming a roux.
6. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. (Tip: Ensure the cheese is freshly grated for the best melting results.)
7. Stir the cheese sauce into the soup. Add sour cream and mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.
8. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving.

Nutrition Focus

Healthy Reasons to Love This

You can feel good about serving cheeseburger soup to your family. A typical serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 23 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams

This dish is rich in protein, helping to keep you satisfied, while the veggies boost fiber intake. Plus, the cheese offers calcium, perfect for growing kids. Enjoy knowing you’re serving a nutritious meal that warms both heart and soul!

How to Serve It Best

Perfect Pairings

To enjoy this comforting cheeseburger soup, serve it in rustic bowls, topped with those bright green chives for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping, turning your meal into a cozy gathering. It’s particularly delightful during colder months or evenings when you need a quick, satisfying meal. Consider serving alongside a simple green salad to add a touch of freshness!

How to Store It Right

Keep It Fresh

To enjoy this soup later, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to label it with the date! For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk can help revive the creaminess!

Expert Tips

Pro Notes

1. For a thicker soup, puree a portion of the soup in a blender and stir it back in.
2. Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on flavor.
3. Make it a truly hearty meal by adding cooked macaroni or rice for even more texture.
4. Consider using beef broth instead of chicken for a deeper, richer profile.
5. Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking for an umami boost.

Flavor Experiments

Easy Variations

1. Gourmet Twist: Swap out the cheddar for Gruyère cheese and sprinkle some truffle oil for an elevated version.
2. Seasonal Surprise: In summer, add diced fresh tomatoes and corn for a burst of seasonal flavor.
3. Playful Option: Toss in some crumbled bacon for that extra crunch and smokiness—who doesn’t love bacon in any form?

Lessons from Past Flops

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the potatoes: This can lead to mushy texture. Make sure to check for tenderness without losing their bite.
2. Using pre-grated cheese: It often contains an anti-caking agent which can prevent proper melting. Freshly grate your cheese!
3. Not adjusting the seasoning: Always taste before serving—seasoning can vary based on the stock used.
4. Skipping the roux stage: This thickens the soup nicely. Don’t rush this step!
5. Not letting the flavors meld: Allow this soup to simmer for the recommended time to fully develop those comforting flavors.

What to Do with Leftovers

Creative Second-Day Ideas

1. Cheeseburger Quesadillas: Use leftover soup as a filling between tortillas, add some cheese, and grill until crispy for a fun twist.
2. Soup-ified Potatoes: Scoop out baked potato flesh, mix with leftover soup, refill the skin, and bake until golden for loaded cheeseburger potatoes.
3. Casserole Creation: Mix leftover soup with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of cheese, then bake for a comforting casserole.

Quick Questions

What is cheeseburger soup?

Cheeseburger soup is a creamy, hearty dish that combines flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting soup format, typically featuring ground beef, cheese, and various veggies.

Can I make cheeseburger soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cheeseburger soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for long-term storage. Just reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to thicken cheeseburger soup?

Using a roux made with flour and butter is the best method for thickening this soup. Make sure to cook it a little before adding the liquid to avoid a raw flour taste.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Definitely! You can customize cheeseburger soup by adding different vegetables, changing up the cheese, or using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Get creative!