Introduction

High-Protein Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort-food soup for anyone who loves the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but wants them in a warm, satisfying bowl. Made with lean ground beef, creamy broth, vegetables, cheddar cheese, and Greek yogurt, this soup delivers plenty of savory cheeseburger flavor while adding a generous amount of protein.

The soup is rich and creamy without relying entirely on heavy cream. Potatoes provide comforting texture and carbohydrates, while lean beef and Greek yogurt help make each serving more filling. Finish it with chopped pickles, green onions, extra cheddar, or even a sprinkle of cooked turkey bacon for a fun cheeseburger-inspired topping.

Origin Information

Cheeseburger soup is a modern American comfort-food creation inspired by the classic cheeseburger. Instead of serving seasoned beef, cheese, and burger toppings on a bun, the familiar ingredients are transformed into a creamy soup.

This high-protein version keeps the traditional cheeseburger character while emphasizing lean protein and adding Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. It is not a traditional regional dish but rather a popular American-style comfort food that can be customized with different burger toppings and seasonings.

Tips

• Use lean ground beef: Lean beef provides plenty of protein while keeping the soup from becoming excessively greasy.
• Brown the beef well: Allowing the beef to develop some color adds deeper savory flavor.
• Use sharp cheddar: Sharp cheddar provides more flavor, so you can use a moderate amount without losing the cheesy character.
• Add Greek yogurt carefully: Stir it in after reducing the heat to prevent curdling.
• Don’t boil after adding dairy: Keep the soup at a gentle heat once the milk, cheese, and yogurt are incorporated.
• Dice potatoes evenly: Similar-sized pieces cook at approximately the same rate.
• Adjust the thickness: Add additional broth for a thinner soup or simmer a little longer for a thicker consistency.
• Add burger toppings: Pickles, mustard, green onions, and crispy bacon can make the soup taste even more like a cheeseburger.

Storage Information

Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling because the dairy-based broth can separate.

The soup can be frozen, but the creamy texture may change slightly after thawing. For the best texture, freeze the soup before adding Greek yogurt and some of the cheese, then add those ingredients while reheating.

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Ingredient Notes

Lean Ground Beef: The main protein source and the ingredient that gives the soup its classic burger flavor. Ground beef around 90–93% lean works especially well.

Potatoes: Add body and a hearty texture while making the soup feel substantial. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are good choices.

Onion: Provides a savory aromatic base and mild sweetness.

Carrot: Adds natural sweetness, color, and additional vegetables without overpowering the cheeseburger flavor.

Celery: Adds subtle savory flavor and texture to the soup base.

Garlic: Enhances the beef and cheese flavors.

Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Creates the soup base. Low-sodium broth makes it easier to control the final salt level.

Milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the soup lighter than one made entirely with heavy cream.

Plain Greek Yogurt: Provides extra protein and creamy texture. Use full-fat or low-fat plain Greek yogurt according to preference.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Gives the soup its signature cheeseburger flavor and creamy, cheesy finish.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup without requiring a large amount of flour.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds savory umami depth and makes the beef taste richer.

Yellow Mustard: A small amount provides the familiar tang of a cheeseburger.

Paprika: Adds mild warmth and color.

Garlic Powder: Reinforces the savory flavor.

Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and balances the creamy ingredients.

Pickles: Optional, but highly recommended as a topping for an unmistakable cheeseburger flavor.

Serving Instructions

• With Pickles: Add chopped dill pickles directly to each bowl for a classic cheeseburger tang.
• With Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for freshness and color.
• With Turkey Bacon: Add a small amount of crispy turkey bacon for smoky flavor and extra protein.
• With A Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a lighter accompaniment.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans.
• With Toast: Serve with whole-grain toast or a small piece of crusty bread for dipping.

Print Recipe

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High-Protein Cheeseburger Soup

Author: Dino James Cooking Method: Sauteing, Simmering Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: Gluten Free High Protein Nut Free Quick Meals Soy Free Sugar Free

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 390

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Winter, Fall

Description

A creamy, protein-packed cheeseburger soup made with lean ground beef, potatoes, sharp cheddar, vegetables, and Greek yogurt. A hearty one-pot comfort meal with all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• - 1½ pounds 90–93% lean ground beef
• - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• - 2 medium carrots, diced
• - 2 celery stalks, diced
• - 3 cloves garlic, minced
• - 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• - 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• - 1 cup low-fat milk
• - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• - 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• - 2 tablespoons cold water
• - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• - 1 teaspoon paprika
• - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• - ½ teaspoon black pepper
• - ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• - 1 teaspoon olive oil, if needed

Optional Toppings

• - Chopped dill pickles
• - Sliced green onions
• - Extra shredded cheddar
• - Cooked crumbled turkey bacon
• - Fresh parsley
• - A small drizzle of mustard

Instructions

Brown The Ground Beef

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
2. If there is a large amount of excess fat, carefully drain it. Return the pot to the stovetop.

Cook The Vegetables

1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Season The Soup

1. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Mix thoroughly so the seasonings coat the beef and vegetables.

Add The Potatoes And Broth

1. Add the diced potatoes and beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Prepare The Thickener

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until completely smooth.
2. Slowly pour the mixture into the simmering soup while stirring continuously.
3. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the broth begins to thicken.

Add The Milk And Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk.
2. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the soup.
3. Do not allow the soup to reach a rapid boil after adding the dairy.

Add The Greek Yogurt

1. Remove the pot from the heat or reduce it to very low heat.
2. Place the Greek yogurt in a small bowl and stir in a few spoonfuls of the hot soup to gently warm it. Then gradually stir the yogurt mixture back into the pot.
3. This helps prevent the yogurt from curdling and creates a smooth, creamy consistency.

Taste And Adjust

1. Taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce as desired.
2. If the soup is thicker than you prefer, stir in a little additional broth or milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to stand for several minutes before serving.

Serve

1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with your favorite cheeseburger-inspired toppings.
2. Chopped dill pickles, green onions, extra cheddar, and turkey bacon are especially delicious.

Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 390kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 15g24%

Saturated Fat 7g35%

Sodium 650mg28%

Total Carbohydrate 27g9%

Dietary Fiber 4g16%

Sugars 7g

Protein 38g76%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tools

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cheese grater
• Food thermometer, if desired

Keywords: High-Protein Cheeseburger Soup, protein soup recipe, healthy cheeseburger soup, creamy beef soup, high-protein dinner, ground beef soup, cheesy potato soup, easy comfort food.