Are you craving the ultimate comfort food with minimal prep time? Say hello to Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup—a creamy, cheesy delight that combines all the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger into a hearty bowl of soup.
Ideal for busy families and soup lovers, this recipe is a time-saving, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that takes full advantage of your slow cooker.
Keep reading to learn how to make this cozy dish, plus tips to customize it for your family’s taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before jumping into the step-by-step instructions, here’s why Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup will quickly become a household favorite:
- Time-Saving Convenience: Minimal prep makes it perfect for hectic weekdays.
- Creamy and Satisfying: A rich, cheesy base with hearty toppings.
- Family-Friendly: Customizable for picky eaters or extra indulgence.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients available at any grocery store.
Now that you're hooked, let's get started on crafting this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to whip up this flavorful Cheeseburger Soup in your slow cooker. You likely already have some of these ingredients in your pantry.
Soup Base
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free thickening)
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled cooked bacon
- Diced pickles for a cheeseburger twist
- Shredded lettuce (for added crunch)
- Toasted bread cubes or croutons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup. With its simple prep and hands-off cooking, it’s great for busy families who still want a flavorful, home-cooked meal.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease, then add the beef to the slow cooker.
Tip: Cooking the beef first prevents the soup from becoming greasy while amplifying the flavors.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots, and celery into small, bite-sized pieces. Add them, along with the diced onion, minced garlic, and spices (parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper), directly to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken or beef broth, ensuring the liquid covers the vegetables. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Cook on Low or High
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Thicken and Add Cream
About 30 minutes before the soup is done, whisk the heavy cream with the flour (or cornstarch) to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it slightly.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the soup is thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes! Bacon crumbles, diced pickles, or toasted croutons add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of buttery toasted buns for the full cheeseburger experience.
Customization Ideas
Make this recipe your own with these easy tweaks:
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets and thicken with almond flour.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked bacon chunks or cooked ground chicken.
Why Make Cheeseburger Soup in a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooker is a busy family’s best friend! Here’s why:
- Set It and Forget It: Toss the ingredients in and go about your day.
- Even Cooking: The slow cooker ensures that the flavors meld beautifully over time.
- Batch Cooking: Easily double this recipe to enjoy leftovers or freeze portions for later.
If you’re new to slow cooking, this Cheeseburger Soup recipe is a great way to start. It’s straightforward and guaranteed to impress.
Tips for Freezing and Reheating
This soup is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for liquid expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Defrost overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in small intervals, stirring regularly.
Note: The soup may thicken when stored. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back for More
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together. With its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying chunks of vegetables and beef, it's as comforting as it gets. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, letting you focus on what matters most.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. The best part? It’s endlessly versatile and perfect for customizing to suit your personal tastes.
Give It a Try!
Now that you know how to make the ultimate Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup, it’s time to get cooking! Grab your slow cooker, your favorite toppings, and give this recipe a whirl. Trust us—it’s love at first spoonful.
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