Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe

I absolutely love making Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe when I want something comforting yet easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. This soup has all the cozy flavors of a classic cheeseburger, but in a creamy, hearty bowl that warms you right up. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug—perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a filling lunch that’ll satisfy both kids and adults.

When I first tried this Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe, I was surprised by how the blend of savory beef, melted cheese, and tender veggies came together effortlessly. You’ll find that it’s a crowd-pleaser that also freezes well, so you can make a batch ahead and enjoy leftovers without fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your soup rotation!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here work wonderfully together to build layers of flavor—from the hearty ground beef to the subtle herbs and creamy cheese. I like buying fresh veggies and good quality Velveeta cheese to get that authentic taste every time.

• Ground beef: Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease and get a nice beefy flavor.
• Onion: Chopped finely so it softens right into the soup without chunks.
• Carrots: Shredded carrots blend well in the soup and add natural sweetness.
• Celery: Diced celery adds a mild freshness that balances the richness.
• Dried basil: It’s aromatic and adds a little herbal warmth.
• Dried parsley flakes: Adds a gentle green flavor and color.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly pressed garlic gives that classic savory kick.
• Butter: Divided for sautéing and making the roux, essential for creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: The soup base that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Potatoes: Peeled and diced; these thicken the soup and make it hearty.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup base; you can swap gluten-free if needed.
• Pepper jack Velveeta: Cut into cubes for melting smoothly and adding cheesy creaminess.
• Milk: Adds richness and a silky finish to the soup.
• Salt: To enhance all the ingredients’ flavors.
• Black pepper: For a subtle spicy background note.
• Sour cream: Stirred in at the end for tang and a luscious texture.

Variations

I love how versatile this Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe is, so feel free to switch things up based on what you have or your preferences. I often tweak it to add a little extra kick or to lighten it up without losing the flavor.

• Spicy Twist: I add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños for that subtle heat—my family loves the extra zing!
• Cheese Variations: Swap the pepper jack Velveeta for sharp cheddar or even a mix of cheeses for different textures and flavors.
• Vegetarian Version: Try substituting the beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth—still tasty and hearty.
• Extra Veggies: I sometimes toss in corn or peas for a pop of color and sweetness without overpowering the soup.

How to Make Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Prep Vegetables

Start by browning your ground beef in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked through but not dry. Drain the excess fat well, which helps keep the soup from being greasy. Setting the cooked beef aside, you’ll use the same pan to savor those flavorful browned bits. Then, sauté chopped onions, shredded carrots, diced celery, basil, and parsley in a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Cook until the veggies are soft and tender—usually about 10 minutes. Press in the garlic last, cooking just until fragrant so it doesn’t burn. This step builds a deep, savory base that’s key to nailing the flavor.

Step 2: Simmer With Broth, Potatoes, and Beef

Pour in your chicken broth, then add the diced peeled potatoes and the browned beef back in. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are super tender. This stage is where everything melds together, so try not to rush it. If the soup looks too thick, add a splash more broth or water to keep it just right.

Step 3: Make the Roux and Thicken the Soup

While your potatoes cook, melt the remaining butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook it for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly until it bubbles and turns light golden—this removes any floury taste. Slowly whisk this mixture into your soup and bring it back to a boil, cooking an additional 2 minutes. This creates that lush, creamy texture we’re after without it being gluey, so keep those stirs steady!

Step 4: Add Cheese, Milk, and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cubed pepper jack Velveeta, milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring gently until the cheese fully melts and blends into the soup, creating that smooth, cheesy goodness. Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream, which adds a nice tang and richness. Be careful not to boil after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love topping my bowls with extra shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. Crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of black pepper give my family some extra texture and punch. You can’t go wrong with classic garnishes that remind you of a loaded cheeseburger!

Side Dishes

For sides, I keep it simple with crusty bread or garlic toast to perfectly scoop up every last drop. A fresh green salad or crispy potato wedges make an excellent accompaniment to round out the meal without overwhelming the soup’s rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe in mini bread bowls—it’s such a fun way to impress guests and add an interactive element. You can also drizzle a little chipotle mayo or sriracha on top to spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so leftovers are just as good, if not better. Just give it a gentle stir when reheating because it tends to thicken as it cools.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this soup a couple of times with great results. Just cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. I recommend leaving out the sour cream if you plan to freeze it—add that fresh when you reheat for best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, heat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to perfect soup consistency. Add sour cream after reheating, and give it a final stir before serving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Soup from Taste of Home Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort foods because it’s simple to make and so satisfying. There’s something irresistibly cozy about the cheesy, beefy flavors paired with tender potatoes and veggies. I can’t recommend it enough if you’re craving that homemade comfort food vibe that’s both family-friendly and foolproof. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite in your own kitchen!

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