Name: Vegan Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 12 oz plant-based ground beef substitute (e.g., Beyond Meat or Impossible); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1½ cups unsweetened almond milk; ½ cup nutritional yeast; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; Chopped green onions or parsley (optional garnish); Vegan shredded cheese (optional garnish)

Jump to Recipe

This Vegan Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that transforms a fast-food classic into a wholesome, plant-based meal. Packed with savory flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect bowl of comfort food for a cozy night in. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply looking to enjoy more meatless meals, this soup delivers all the indulgent taste of a cheeseburger—without any dairy or meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup captures the delicious flavors of a traditional cheeseburger in a completely vegan format. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying, with a blend of plant-based ingredients that create a velvety broth and a hearty bite. The recipe is also family-friendly, ideal for meal prep, and can be made in one pot for easy cleanup. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more vegetables into your diet.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Yellow onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic
Potatoes
Plant-based ground meat or lentils
Vegetable broth
Vegan cheddar cheese (shredded)
Unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat)
Nutritional yeast
Mustard
Tomato paste
Salt and pepper
Smoked paprika (optional)
Dill pickles (optional garnish)
Fresh parsley or green onions (optional garnish)

directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in potatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Add the plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils and sauté until browned and incorporated.
Pour in the vegetable broth, tomato paste, mustard, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and vegan cheddar cheese. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the soup is creamy and the cheese is melted.
Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped dill pickles, parsley, or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Nut-Free: Use oat or soy milk instead of almond milk.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your plant-based meat and broth are gluten-free.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesier Taste: Add more nutritional yeast or a second variety of vegan cheese.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of plant-based milk or broth if it has thickened during storage.
The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What is vegan cheeseburger soup made of?

Vegan cheeseburger soup is made from vegetables, plant-based meat or lentils, vegan cheese, plant milk, and seasonings that mimic the flavors of a traditional cheeseburger.

Can I make this soup without vegan cheese?

Yes, you can omit vegan cheese, though it adds richness and depth. Increase nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy substitutes.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if all ingredients, including broth and vegan meat, are certified gluten-free.

Can I use real potatoes or sweet potatoes?

Yes, both types of potatoes work well. Sweet potatoes will add a sweeter flavor and softer texture.

How can I make this soup thicker?

You can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this soup is creamy, flavorful, and generally well-liked by children, especially if they enjoy cheeseburgers.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the veggies first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What toppings go well with vegan cheeseburger soup?

Try chopped pickles, green onions, parsley, croutons, or even a drizzle of vegan sour cream.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes, cooked pasta can be stirred in at the end for added texture, turning it into a cheeseburger pasta soup.

Conclusion

Vegan Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious, satisfying, and creative way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a healthier, plant-based format. Easy to make and highly customizable, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that pleases both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite