If you love a classic Big Mac, then this Creamy One-Pot Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup will become your new favorite comfort food. Packed with the iconic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger – including savory ground beef, tangy pickle relish, and a creamy Velveeta cheese base – this soup takes all the best parts of a Big Mac and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying bowl. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something cozy and delicious, this soup is sure to be a family favorite. Plus, with a few optional toppings like toasted croutons and shredded cheese, you can customize each bowl to your taste!
Last Updated February 17th, 2025.
Contents
(show)
Why You’ll Love this Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: This one-pot, 30-minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, homemade dinner without the hassle.
- Big Mac Flavor in Every Bite: Enjoy the iconic flavors of a Big Mac in a warm, cheesy soup! With savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, creamy Velveeta, and zesty pickle relish, it delivers that classic cheeseburger taste—no drive-thru needed.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and packed with melty cheese and bold flavors, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or cozy nights in.
- Customizable & Adaptable: Top it with crispy croutons, sesame seeds, extra pickles, or shredded cheese to make it your own! Plus, it’s easy to make gluten-free with a simple flour swap.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground Beef – Adds savory richness and heartiness to the soup. Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for a balanced texture without excess grease.
- Butter (Salted or Unsalted) – Contributes a creamy, rich flavor to the base. Unsalted butter allows better control over salt levels, while salted enhances overall seasoning.
- Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base that deepens the soup’s flavor. Sautéing it first builds richness in every bite.
- Coleslaw Mix (Cabbage & Carrots) – A convenient way to add crunch and freshness, mimicking the lettuce from a classic Big Mac. It softens beautifully into the soup while maintaining texture.
- Garlic – Enhances the savory depth of the soup. Fresh minced garlic delivers the most robust flavor, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch.
- Ketchup – A key ingredient for authentic Big Mac flavor, adding the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and tang.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances the soup’s depth and slight sweetness, complementing the tang from ketchup and pickle relish.
- Pickle Relish – Brings a sweet and tangy bite, reminiscent of Big Mac sauce, while adding texture and brightness to the soup.
- Beef Broth – Creates a savory, umami-rich base that ties all the flavors together. Use low-sodium broth to better control salt levels.
- Velveeta – This Big Mac cheeseburger soup with Velveeta ensures a smooth, creamy texture that melts seamlessly into the broth, giving the soup its signature cheeseburger flavor.
- Half & Half – Adds creaminess and richness, creating a velvety finish that enhances the overall texture without making the soup too heavy.
Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:
- To Make Gluten-Free:
- Flour Substitute: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup without compromising texture.
- Gluten-Free Croutons: Swap regular bread for gluten-free bread, toasted for a crispy crouton topping.
- To Make Dairy-Free:
- Cheese Alternative: Replace Velveeta with dairy-free cheese shreds or a blend of nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a creamy, cheesy taste.
- Half & Half Substitute: Use unsweetened almond, soy, or coconut milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
- To Make Lower Carb:
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, lower-carb option while keeping the soup hearty.
- Low-Carb Vegetable Alternative: Replace coleslaw mix with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly, lower-carb substitute that still adds texture.
- Make It Keto-Friendly: Swap the coleslaw mix for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto cheeseburger soup alternative. Perfect for those watching their carbs!
- To Make Vegetarian:
- Meat Alternative: Swap ground beef for a plant based alternative (I have used the Impossible Ground Beef several times and really like it!)
- Dairy-Free Butter Alternative: Use olive oil or plant-based vegan butter for the same richness.
- To Make Nut-Free:
- Nut-Free Dairy Substitutes: If using non-dairy milk, choose nut-free options like oat or soy milk to ensure it’s safe for nut allergies.
- Plant-Based Meat Substitutes: When replacing ground beef, check plant-based alternatives for hidden nut ingredients.
Additional Substitutions & Variations:
- Make It Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. A little smoked paprika can also enhance the smoky burger flavor.
- Thicker or Thinner Soup:
- For a thicker consistency, add an extra tablespoon of gluten-free flour or cornstarch mixed with a bit of broth before stirring it in.
- For a thinner soup, increase the beef broth or add a splash of extra half & half.
- Meat Variations: Try using Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile while keeping it hearty & meaty.
- Extra Veggies: Bulk up the soup with diced tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for added nutrition and texture.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Twist: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, bacon cheeseburger-inspired version.
- Sauce Variations: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce to add a smoky-sweet twist, or stir in a little extra mustard for an even more authentic burger flavor.
Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:
- Browning the Beef: For maximum flavor, brown the ground beef until deeply caramelized before adding other ingredients. This creates a rich, flavorful base and enhances the soup’s overall depth.
- Sautéing Vegetables: Take the time to sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This step draws out natural sweetness and builds a more complex, well-rounded flavor.
- Cheese Melting Tip: To avoid clumping, add Velveeta gradually, stirring continuously until fully melted. If using shredded cheese instead, melt it slowly on low heat to prevent a grainy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with toasted bread croutons, a simple side salad, or crispy fries for a true cheeseburger-inspired meal. For extra burger authenticity, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or half & half if needed to restore creaminess.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For the best texture, reheat slowly and stir well.
Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup FAQ’s:
- Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?
- Yes! While Velveeta creates the smoothest, creamiest texture, you can substitute it with a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack cheese. For the best results, shred the cheese fresh and melt it gradually over low heat to prevent graininess.
- How do I make this soup gluten-free?
- To make this Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Also, ensure your pickle relish, ketchup, and broth are labeled gluten-free.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add the cheese and half & half in the last 30 minutes to keep the texture creamy without curdling.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- For the best texture, reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or half & half to loosen it up. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. For the best results, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop.
- How can I add even more Big Mac flavor?
- For an extra Big Mac-inspired twist, add a drizzle of burger sauce or a spoonful of Thousand Island dressing when serving. You can also top it with extra pickle relish, sesame seeds, or shredded lettuce for that signature burger experience!
More Cozy Soup & 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
- Cozy Beef & Rice Soup
- Honey Garlic Cowboy Beans
- Beef, Vegetable, & Noodle Soup
- One-Pot Pesto Kielbasa Soup with Kale and Rice
Tried this Creamy Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup? I’d love to hear what you think! Don’t forget to leave a star rating and review in the recipe card below—it helps others and means so much to me.Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps keep these delicious recipes coming! ⭐
Follow me on Instagram and Pinterest for more delicious recipes, travel inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content.
Creamy Big Mac Cheeseburger Soup
Enjoy all the iconic flavors of a Big Mac in a warm, creamy, and hearty soup! This easy one-pot recipe combines savory ground beef, melty Velveeta cheese, tangy pickle relish, and a rich, beefy broth for the ultimate comfort food experience. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Serve with toasted croutons and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for the full burger-inspired experience!
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 stir well to coat the vegetables.
- 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, stirring continously until the cheese has melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Plate the soup and garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
- Thicker or Thinner Soup:
- For a thicker consistency, add an extra tablespoon of gluten-free flour or cornstarch mixed with a bit of broth before stirring it in.
- For a thinner soup, increase the beef broth or add a splash of extra half & half.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or half & half if needed to restore creaminess.
- To Make Gluten-Free:
- Flour Substitute: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup without compromising texture.
- Gluten-Free Croutons: Swap regular bread for gluten-free bread, toasted for a crispy crouton topping.
- Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.
Nutrition
Calories: 515kcalCarbohydrates: 19.4gProtein: 25.2gFat: 34.7gSaturated Fat: 17.8gCholesterol: 112.3mgFiber: 0.9gSugar: 13.4g
Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!
