Creamy Cheeseburger Soup with a Christmas Twist 🍲🎄

There’s something magical about December evenings—the scent of pine in the air, soft lights twinkling through frosty windows, and the comforting warmth of homemade soup simmering on the stove. If you’re searching for the perfect cozy meal that captures that feeling, Creamy Cheeseburger Soup with a Christmas Twist might just become your new holiday tradition.

This beloved recipe combines everything people love about a classic cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and hearty potatoes—turned into a rich, creamy soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s been adored by families for generations and shared countless times across recipe sites, especially during the holiday season when everyone craves comfort and nostalgia.

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The Heartwarming Story Behind Cheeseburger Soup ❤️

Cheeseburger Soup first gained popularity in Midwest kitchens decades ago, especially in small towns where winters are long and cold. Cooks found that turning the flavors of a burger into a thick, cheesy soup created a one-pot meal everyone loved—kids included!

Over time, it became a potluck favorite and a weeknight go-to for busy families. This Christmas-inspired version adds a touch of festive flair—beautiful red and green toppings, seasonal herbs, and a presentation that makes it as pretty as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🎅

• Creamy, cheesy, and filling – Every spoonful is packed with melted cheddar and tender potatoes.
• Family-approved – No picky eater will resist this one.
• Festive flair – With colorful toppings and optional Christmas garnishes, it doubles as a holiday showstopper.
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for busy December schedules.
• No bacon – Still rich and satisfying, thanks to the savory beef base and cheese blend.

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Ingredients 🧀🥔

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Christmas-ready comfort dish:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, shredded or finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional festive toppings:
  • Diced red bell peppers (for color 🎄)
  • Fresh parsley or green onion
  • A sprinkle of shredded white cheese “snow”

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Directions 👩‍🍳✨

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt butter and add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened—about 5 minutes. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like Christmas magic! 🎅

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Add diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until smooth and thickened.

Add this creamy mixture to the soup pot, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Return the cooked beef to the pot, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, parsley, paprika, and garlic powder.

Your kitchen will now smell like a cozy diner on Christmas Eve—rich, buttery, and full of comfort.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with festive touches: a sprinkle of cheddar, diced red bell peppers, and green parsley for that holiday cheer. Serve with warm bread or garlic toast.

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Festive Tips 🎁

1. Christmas Color Garnish: Add finely diced red bell peppers and green onions for a red-and-green holiday look.
2. Serve in Bread Bowls: Hollowed-out bread rolls make an adorable (and edible!) Christmas presentation.
3. Add a Dash of Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the creamy base without overpowering the cheese flavor.
4. Pair With: A side of cranberry salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced festive meal.
5. Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully—just add a splash of milk when warming to keep it creamy.

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Why This Soup Feels So Festive ✨

There’s something about a steaming bowl of cheeseburger soup that makes people slow down and savor the moment. During the holidays, when everything is busy and bright, this simple dish brings everyone to the table.

It’s colorful, hearty, and nostalgic—the kind of meal that invites laughter, warmth, and seconds. Pair it with soft background carols, twinkling lights, and maybe a cozy blanket, and you’ve got yourself the perfect Christmas night-in.

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Serving Ideas 🎄

• Mini Soup Bar: Set out bowls of toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and scallions so guests can customize their own.
• Christmas Eve Dinner: Serve alongside homemade rolls and a light salad.
• Leftovers Magic: The next day, use it as a filling for stuffed baked potatoes—trust me, it’s incredible.

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Storage and Reheating 🥣

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in single servings for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of milk or broth to keep the texture silky.

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The Christmas Twist You’ll Love 🌟

What sets this version apart from the classic is its festive flair. Instead of bacon or heavy garnishes, this recipe embraces the colors and flavors of the season—golden cheese, red peppers, and green herbs that sparkle like holiday lights. It’s comforting yet elegant, perfect for both casual family nights and Christmas gatherings.

It’s also a wonderful recipe to make with kids—letting them sprinkle “cheese snow” or arrange colorful toppings gives them a little holiday joy right in the kitchen.

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A Little Chef’s Secret 💫

For extra creaminess without extra fat, blend a cup of the cooked potatoes and broth, then stir it back into the soup before adding cheese. It thickens naturally and enhances the velvety texture.

And if you want to elevate it further, stir in a handful of shredded white cheddar or Monterey Jack right before serving—it adds a smooth, luxurious finish.

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