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Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Featured in Warm and Comforting Bowls.

This cheeseburger soup has revolutionized comfort food because it transforms everyone's favorite sandwich into the most amazing creamy bowl of goodness and what makes it really special is how it combines seasoned ground beef crispy bacon tender potatoes and vegetables in this incredibly rich cheesy broth plus it brings all those classic flavors together in such a satisfying way and I love how it makes everyone happy on cold days when you need something really warming and filling with plenty of leftovers for the next day.
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Updated on Tue, 14 Jan 2025 21:50:20 GMT
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A bowl of creamy soup filled with ground beef, diced vegetables, and bacon bits, garnished with parsley. Pin it
A bowl of creamy soup filled with ground beef, diced vegetables, and bacon bits, garnished with parsley. | tastygusto.com

Your New Favorite Comfort Soup

I've turned everyone's favorite cheeseburger into the most amazing bowl of soup you'll ever taste. Every spoonful is filled with crispy bacon tender beef potatoes and veggies all swimming in a rich cheesy broth. This soup has become my family's most requested dinner especially on those cozy nights when we're craving something warm and satisfying.

What Makes This Soup Special

This isn't just any ordinary soup it's pure comfort in a bowl. I love how easily it comes together and how I can switch up the cheeses and veggies based on what I have in my fridge. My kids absolutely devour it and it's become our go to meal for busy weeknights. Pair it with some crusty bread and you've got the perfect dinner that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

Everything You'll Need

  • Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor. Cook until crispy for the best texture.
  • Ground Beef: Lean beef (90/10) works best to minimize grease.
  • Onion, Carrot, Celery: A flavorful base for the soup.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the soup's savory depth.
  • Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold hold their shape and add heartiness.
  • Chicken Broth: A flavorful base; beef broth can be substituted.
  • Half-and-Half: For creaminess; heavy cream or milk also work.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated sharp cheddar melts best for a rich, cheesy flavor.
  • BBQ Sauce: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
  • Spices: Mustard powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper enhance the burger-inspired flavors.

Let's Make It Together

Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large pot, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Brown Beef
Crumble and brown the ground beef in the same pot. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 4: Make the Base
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Slowly add chicken broth, half-and-half, BBQ sauce, and spices, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Simmer
Return the beef and bacon to the pot, along with diced potatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Stir in freshly grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Make It Your Own

  • Low-Fat Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for low-fat milk in place of half-and-half.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Cheese Choices: Substitute cheddar with Velveeta, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
  • Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with riced cauliflower to reduce carbs while keeping it hearty.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth as the base.

Keep It Fresh

  • To Store: Allow soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • To Freeze: Omit potatoes and dairy before freezing to prevent texture changes. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Add fresh potatoes and cream upon reheating.
  • To Reheat: Warm soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much.

My Secret Tips

  • Use Fresh Cheese: Grate cheddar cheese from a block for better melting and flavor.
  • Don't Overcook Potatoes: Simmer just until tender to avoid a mushy texture.
  • Thicken as Needed: Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker consistency.
  • Bacon Crumbles: Reserve extra crispy bacon for garnish to keep it crunchy.
  • Make it Extra Creamy: Add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before serving for a luxurious texture.

Time to Dig In

My favorite way to serve this soup is with thick slices of toasted sourdough perfect for dunking. I always set out little bowls of extra crispy bacon bits shredded cheese and chopped green onions so everyone can customize their bowl. For a fresh contrast I'll toss together a quick green salad. Don't forget the pickle spears they add such a fun burger like touch to the whole experience.

A close-up view of a creamy soup with ground beef, diced potatoes, and bacon, garnished with parsley, served in a bowl. Pin it
A close-up view of a creamy soup with ground beef, diced potatoes, and bacon, garnished with parsley, served in a bowl. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this soup healthier?

Yes, use ground turkey or chicken for less fat, substitute whole milk for half-and-half, and try cauliflower rice instead of potatoes for a low-carb version.

→ What cheese works best in this recipe?

While freshly shredded cheddar works best for melting and creaminess, you can use Velveeta, Monterey jack, American cheese, or Colby. Fresh-shredded cheese will give the best results.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

→ Can I make this recipe faster?

Use hashbrowns instead of cubed potatoes for quicker prep time. You can also use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic to save time.

→ Can I leave out the bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a regular cheeseburger soup. The soup will still be flavorful with the ground beef and cheese.

Conclusion

A hearty and comforting soup that brings the classic cheeseburger flavors into a warm, creamy dish perfect for family dinners.

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

A creamy, hearty soup combining ground beef, crispy bacon, vegetables and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Ready in under an hour.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
35 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes

Category: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (6 bowls)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 cup bacon, raw and diced.
02 1 pound lean ground beef.
03 ½ cup onion, diced.
04 ½ cup carrot, diced.
05 ½ cup celery, diced.
06 2 cloves garlic, minced.
07 ¼ cup all purpose flour.
08 4 cups chicken broth.
09 2 cups half-and-half.
10 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce.
11 ½ teaspoon dried parsley.
12 ½ teaspoon salt.
13 ¼ teaspoon paprika.
14 ¼ teaspoon dried mustard powder.
15 ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
16 2 cups potatoes, diced.
17 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated.

Instructions

Step 01

Cook diced bacon in large pot over medium-high heat 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove to paper towels.

Step 02

Brown ground beef in same pot about 5 minutes until cooked through. Drain if desired.

Step 03

Add onion, celery, and carrots, cook 5 minutes until tender. Add garlic, cook 1 minute. Stir in flour.

Step 04

Add broth, half-and-half, BBQ sauce, and seasonings. Add beef, bacon, and potatoes. Boil then simmer 15 minutes.

Step 05

Add cheese and stir until melted. Serve with optional croutons.

Notes

  1. Can use ground turkey or chicken for lower fat.
  2. Keeps in fridge up to 3 days.
  3. Can substitute cauliflower for low-carb version.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large stock pot or Dutch oven.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (half-and-half, cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 648
  • Total Fat: 43 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 38 g