Creamy, Dreamy Skillet Cheeseburger Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Cost estimate: $8–12 | Serves: 6

Okay, Mommas, let’s talk about weeknight wins! I don’t know about you, but by Wednesday, the thought of another elaborate meal makes me want to hide in the pantry with a bag of chocolate chips. That’s where this Creamy Skillet Cheeseburger Soup swoops in to save the day. It’s everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger, but in cozy soup form. And bonus? My kids actually eat their vegetables when they’re swimming in cheesy, beefy goodness. This recipe is a lifesaver, a crowd-pleaser, and it’s ready faster than you can say “fast food.” Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love These

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl! Here’s why you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation:

• Kid-approved – Seriously, even my pickiest eater devours this. It’s the cheeseburger magic!
• Quick & Easy – From fridge to table in under an hour. Perfect for those crazy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder – Fewer dishes? Yes, please! Everything cooks right in your skillet.
• Customizable – Add your favorite burger toppings: pickles, bacon, tomatoes…the sky’s the limit!
• Comfort Food – That warm, creamy, cheesy taste is pure comfort on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes), peeled or unpeeled
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup milk (I use 2%)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: cooked bacon crumbles, chopped pickles, sour cream, chopped green onions

How to Make

1. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.Tip: For extra flavor, use a leaner ground beef (90/10) and don’t drain *all* the grease. A little bit adds richness!
2. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.Warning: Keep an eye on the garlic; it burns easily. Burnt garlic is bitter, so don’t let it get too brown!
3. Simmer the soup: Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained), potatoes, carrots, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut potatoes and carrots. Just make sure they’re diced small for faster cooking.
4. Make it creamy: Stir in the milk and softened cream cheese until the cream cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.Important: Make sure the cream cheese is softened! Cold cream cheese will clump and won’t incorporate smoothly. You can microwave it for 30 seconds to soften it.
5. Add the cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the soup is nice and cheesy.Flavor Boost: For a bolder flavor, use a sharp cheddar cheese. Or, try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra meltiness!
6. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the cheeseburger soup into bowls and top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as cooked bacon crumbles, chopped pickles, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately and prepare for happy faces!

Tips & Tricks

Want to take your Cheeseburger Soup to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

• Flavor Booster: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Time-Saver: Use frozen diced potatoes and carrots to cut down on prep time.
• Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Prep Hack: Dice the onions, potatoes, and carrots ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Dietary Variations

Need to tweak this recipe for dietary restrictions? No problem!

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double check your beef broth ingredients.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like oat milk and cashew cream cheese. Use a dairy-free cheddar cheese alternative.
• Lower Carb: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce the carb count.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! Cheeseburger soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing; it might be a little grainier. Stir well when reheating.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed in steps 1 and 2. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the milk, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking, until melted and smooth. Easy peasy!

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