1-First Step: Prepare the Ground Beef Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. This should take about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no pink remains. Once done, drain the excess grease and set the beef aside; this helps keep the soup from becoming too oily and ensures a cleaner flavor profile.

2-Second Step: Sauté the Vegetables In the same pan, over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté 3/4 cup chopped onion, 3/4 cup shredded carrots, 3/4 cup diced celery, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes. Cook these until the vegetables are tender, which takes around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For added aroma, press and add 2 cloves of garlic, cooking for another minute until it’s fragrant; this step builds the soup’s base flavors and adds that essential spicy kick.

3-Third Step: Combine and Simmer Now, add 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth, the 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes, and the cooked ground beef back into the pan. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender. This allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a hearty and flavorful cheeseburger soup that’s perfect for a crowd.

4-Fourth Step: Make the Roux While the soup simmers, in a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 3-5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and forms a roux. This mixture will thicken the soup, so add it to the main pot, bring to a boil, and stir for 2 minutes to ensure it integrates smoothly; adapt by using gluten-free flour if needed for dietary preferences.

5-Fifth Step: Add Cheese and Dairy Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 12 ounces of cubed cheese, 1 1/2 cups of milk, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, which should take 2-3 minutes, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. For variations, try different cheeses like pepper jack for more spice or use non-dairy milk to keep it lighter.

6-Final Step: Finish and Serve Remove the soup from the heat and blend in 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a smooth finish; this prevents curdling and adds a tangy note. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with options like crumbled bacon or green onions for extra flair. The total preparation time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making this cheeseburger soup an ideal choice for busy parents or working professionals looking for a quick yet satisfying meal.