Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup transforms your favorite burger into a rich, warming bowl that’s perfect when you want all that classic flavor without the fuss. I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something hearty but hands-off, and now it’s my go-to comfort meal. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.

There’s something magical about coming home to a house filled with the aroma of beef, cheese, and savory vegetables simmering together. This cheeseburger soup in crockpot brings all those beloved burger flavors into one cozy dish. It’s become my family’s favorite when the weather turns cold. The combination of tender beef, melted cheddar, and perfectly cooked vegetables creates a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Plus, this slow cooker cheeseburger soup couldn’t be easier to throw together in the morning before work.

What Goes Into Your Cheeseburger Soup

I always use lean ground beef for the best texture, and I’ve found that browning it first makes a huge difference in flavor. Pro tip: don’t skip the step of sautéing the onion and garlic, it builds a deeper, more complex taste.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced into 1/4-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth (I prefer low-sodium so you can control the salt level)
• 3 cups potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 cups carrots, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 cups celery, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheese, sour cream

How to Make This Slow Cooker Favorite

I recommend taking just a few minutes to brown the beef properly for the richest flavor in your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. You’ll see it turn from red to a deep brown color. Drain any excess grease, then transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: In the same skillet (don’t wash it, you want those flavorful bits), add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the beef broth, diced potatoes, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well mixed. Pro tip: Make sure your vegetables are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow method produces the most tender vegetables and allows flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are fork-tender and the potatoes break apart easily.

Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cover with the lid and continue cooking until the cheese has melted completely and incorporated into the soup, about 20-25 minutes. The soup will thicken beautifully during this final stage.

Step 6: Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed. Every batch is a little different, so adjust to your preference.

Step 7: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. I love adding crispy bacon and a dollop of sour cream for that authentic cheeseburger experience.

Perfect Pairings for Your Bowl

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with sides that complement its rich, cheesy flavor.

Crusty French bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up every last drop of this creamy cheeseburger soup. The crunchy exterior and soft interior provide a wonderful textural contrast.

Simple green salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup and adds a fresh, light element to your meal.

Garlic breadsticks: These add an extra layer of comfort and are ideal for dipping. The garlic flavor enhances the savory notes in the Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup.

Pickle spears: Just like pickles on a burger, these bring a tangy crunch that balances the creamy, rich soup perfectly.

More Hearty Slow Cooker Soups to Complete Your Comfort Food Menu

This rich cheeseburger soup pairs wonderfully with other hearty crockpot favorites that bring bold flavors to the table. For another beef-based option with a creamy twist, try the Crockpot Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup, which features similar savory ground beef but with a focus on tender potato cubes and a velvety cheese sauce. Both soups deliver that satisfying, home-cooked comfort everyone craves.

If craving variety beyond beef, the Ultimate Creamy Sausage Potato Soup offers Italian sausage and baby gold potatoes in a rich cream base, while the Best Crockpot Potato Soup brings crispy bacon and sharp cheddar together for a classic favorite. For those who enjoy a little heat, the Hearty Cajun Potato Soup adds smoky andouille sausage and bold Cajun spices to the mix.

Keeping Your Soup Fresh

Store your cooled Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend portioning it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

For reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream if it’s thickened too much in the fridge. The soup also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months, though I suggest freezing it before adding the cheese and cream for the best texture.

Your Questions About Cheeseburger Soup Answered

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