1-First Step: Start by browning the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, then drain the excess grease and set it aside. This step builds the base flavor and reduces fat, which is great for health-conscious eaters; for a leaner option, you can swap beef for ground turkey if desired.

2-Second Step: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter along with the chopped onion, shredded carrots, dried parsley flakes, dried basil, and diced celery; sauté these until they’re tender, about 5 minutes. This infuses the veggies with flavor and aroma, and for low-calorie adaptations, use a bit less butter or a non-dairy alternative to keep things light.

3-Third Step: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, add the 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes, and stir in the cooked ground beef; bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender. If you’re making a vegetarian version, replace the beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth for a seamless swap that maintains the hearty texture.

4-Fourth Step: In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes until it’s bubbly, then add this mixture to the soup in the saucepan. Bring it back to a boil and cook while stirring for 2 minutes to thicken; for gluten-free diets, use a gluten-free flour blend here to ensure the soup stays smooth and creamy without issues.

5-Fifth Step: Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of processed cheese or shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups of milk, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of pepper; continue cooking and stirring until the cheese melts completely. If you’re opting for vegan modifications, choose dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to achieve that melty goodness while keeping the cheeseburger soup inclusive.

6-Final Step: Remove the soup from the heat and blend in 1/4 cup of sour cream for a final creamy touch, then serve it hot with your favorite toppings. This last addition adds richness, and for those avoiding dairy, cream cheese or a plant-based sour cream works well; adjust seasonings to taste and enjoy your customized cheeseburger soup that’s ready to delight.