1. Cheeseburger-Inspired Magic : All the flavors you love about a cheeseburger, but in soup form—perfect for slurping!
2. Hearty & Filling : Loaded with protein, potatoes, and veggies, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.
3. Easy One-Pot Recipe : Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—it’s a win-win!
4. Customizable : Add your favorite toppings like bacon, pickles, or jalapeños for extra flair.
5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will devour this creamy, cheesy soup.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 6–8

For the Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion , diced
• 2 carrots , diced
• 2 celery stalks , diced
• 3 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes, peeled if desired)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk (optional, to thin the cheese sauce if needed)

For Toppings:

• Diced pickles
• Shredded lettuce
• Chopped tomatoes
• Crumbled cooked bacon
• Green onions , sliced

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

1. Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the shredded cheddar cheese over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. If the cheese sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine and Creamify

1. Once the potatoes are tender, stir the heavy cream into the soup for a rich, creamy texture.
2. Gradually stir in the melted cheese sauce, mixing well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite cheeseburger-inspired toppings: diced pickles, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or burger buns on the side for dipping!

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Why This Recipe Works

• Ground Beef Base : The savory beef adds depth and richness, just like a classic cheeseburger.
• Creamy Texture : The combination of heavy cream and melted cheese creates a velvety, indulgent soup.
• Topping Perfection : Adding fresh toppings at the end mimics the crunch and freshness of a real cheeseburger.

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Variations to Try

• Spice It Up : Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free broth and ensure your toppings (like bacon) are GF-friendly.
• Veggie Twist : Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Loaded Version : Stir in cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Cauliflower Swap : Replace the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.

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Tips for Success

• Grate Your Own Cheese : Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother.
• Don’t Boil the Cheese : Stir the cheese sauce over low heat to avoid separation or clumping.
• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency.

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Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh parsley for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Serve alongside breakfast sandwiches or omelets for a brunch twist.
• Party Platter : Pair with sliders, fries, or a salad bar for a fun “build-your-own” theme.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Soup is a celebration of comfort food flavors, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. With its creamy texture, savory beef base, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual meal, or simply craving something warm and satisfying.

Your turn! Have you ever made a soup inspired by a classic dish before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍲