Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup – a comforting, creamy soup that perfectly captures the flavors of a classic Big Mac in every bite! With just one pot and 30 minutes, you can whip up this hearty, cheesy soup that’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty Velveeta, tangy ketchup, and pickle relish. It’s a fun, delicious twist on the beloved burger, turning those familiar flavors into a cozy, savory meal. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for something quick and easy, this Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love it:
- Quick and Easy: This is a 30-minute, one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting without the fuss.
- Big Mac Flavors in Every Bite: With the creamy richness of Velveeta, tangy ketchup, and pickle relish, this soup tastes just like a Big Mac—no drive-thru needed!
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings.
- Easily Adaptable: Make it your own with fun toppings like toasted croutons, sesame seeds, or extra pickles. Plus, it’s easy to make gluten-free if needed!
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground Beef: A savory protein that adds richness and heartiness to the soup; use lean beef for a healthier option.
- Butter (Salted or Unsalted): Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the base; unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness.
- Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base flavor; enhances the overall taste profile when sautéed.
- Coleslaw Cabbage Mix: A blend of cabbage and carrots that adds crunch and freshness; quick and convenient for texture.
- Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory depth; fresh minced garlic works best for a robust flavor.
- Ketchup: A key ingredient for the classic Big Mac taste; adds sweetness and acidity to balance flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and depth of the soup; balances the tangy flavors from ketchup and relish.
- Pickle Relish: Gives a sweet and tangy flavor reminiscent of a Big Mac’s sauce; adds texture and a pop of brightness.
- Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory liquid base; use low-sodium broth for more control over salt levels.
- Velveeta: Melts smoothly to create a creamy texture; gives the soup that signature cheeseburger flavor.
- Half & Half: Adds creaminess and richness to the soup; balances the flavors and enhances the overall texture.
Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free:
- Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the soup.
- Bread for Croutons: Choose gluten-free bread options to make your croutons.
- Dairy-Free:
- Velveeta: Substitute with dairy-free cheese or a blend of nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a creamy texture.
- Half & Half: Use a non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, or coconut) mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
- Lower Carb:
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, lower-carb option.
- Coleslaw Cabbage Mix: Replace with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Vegetarian:
- Ground Beef: Substitute with lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Butter: Use olive oil or vegan butter.
- Half & Half: Replace with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream.
- Nut-Free:
- Half & Half: Ensure non-dairy options used do not contain nuts.
- Ground Beef or Substitutes: Check any packaged meat alternatives for potential nut ingredients.
Optional Additions & Variations:
- Vegetable Variations:
- Sliced Jalapeños: For a spicy kick.
- Diced Tomatoes: Add fresh tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Bell Peppers: Incorporate diced bell peppers for sweetness and crunch.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy depth.
- Spice It Up:
- Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes for heat.
- Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smoky flavor.
- Protein Boost:
- Bacon Bits: For a smoky, crispy addition.
- Chopped Cooked Sausage: Adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it Even Creamier:
- Cream Cheese: Stir in some cream cheese for an even creamier consistency.
- Pureed Cauliflower: Blend steamed cauliflower into the soup for added creaminess and nutrition.
Tips & Recipe Notes:
- Browning the Beef: For maximum flavor, brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients. This helps develop a rich base for the soup.
- Sautéing Vegetables: Take the time to sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
- Adjusting Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the soup with crusty (gluten-free if needed) bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Flavor Development: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together even more before serving.
More Soups & Stew Recipes you Will Love:
- One-Pot Creamy Sausage & Kale Pasta Soup with Feta
- Easy Chickpea Noodle Soup
- Easy Wonton Soup
- Pierogi, Kielbasa, & Cabbage Soup
- Creamy Parmesan, Mushroom, & Wild Rice Soup
- Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Italian Pasta & Beans)
- Creamy Bacon, Mushroom, & Parmesan Tortellini Soup
- Crock-Pot Chicken Pot Pie Gnocchi Soup
- Easy Spicy Sausage & White Bean Soup
- Creamy Sausage, Kale, & Ravioli Soup
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Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 cup yellow onion diced
- 2 cups tri-color coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup pickle relish
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cups beef broth
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese cubed
- 1 cup half & half cream
- salt & pepper to taste
Garnish Options:
- toasted bread ‘croutons’
- shredded cheese
- sliced green onions
- sesame seeds
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of cooking oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and brown it, crumbling it as it cooks.
- Once browned, transfer the beef to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add butter and melt it over medium-low heat.
- Add the onions and coleslaw mix, sautéing for 4-6 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and pickle relish, mixing well.
Create the Base:
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and fully combine until it forms a paste-like consistency.
- Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Add the Sauces:
- Stir in the ketchup and brown sugar until well incorporated.
- Whisk in ½ cup of beef broth until fully combined.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the browned ground beef and the remaining beef broth to the pot.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let it simmer for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Finish the Soup:
- Once thickened, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Stir in the half & half and cubed Velveeta, mixing until the cheese has melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Plate the soup and garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
- Gluten-Free:
- Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the soup.
- Bread for Croutons: Choose gluten-free bread options to make your croutons.
- Beef Broth: Ensure you use a gluten-free brand.
- Ketchup: Check for gluten-free brands, as some may contain gluten.
- Adjusting Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
- Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.