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When you’re craving something warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Soup is the perfect solution. Combining the rich, savory essence of a cheeseburger with the cozy comfort of soup, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, gatherings, or chilly nights. The best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work, making it an easy and stress-free meal to prepare.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this creamy, cheesy, and irresistible soup, along with tips for customization and serving suggestions. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Soup
A Classic Favorite with a Twist
This soup takes all the iconic flavors of a cheeseburger—beef, cheese, and seasonings—and transforms them into a comforting, spoonable dish. It’s the perfect fusion of two comfort food favorites.
Simple, Hands-Off Cooking
With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the rich flavors develop over time.
Family-Friendly and Customizable
From picky eaters to adventurous foodies, everyone loves this soup. You can easily adapt it to suit your family’s preferences, adding toppings or mixing in extra ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this delicious soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean or regular, depending on preference |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | Adds a savory base flavor |
| Carrots, diced | 2 | For a touch of sweetness and texture |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks | Adds balance and crunch |
| Potatoes, peeled and diced | 3 medium | Yukon Gold or Russet work well |
| Chicken or beef broth | 4 cups | Base for the soup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For a rich and creamy texture |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups | Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéing and richness |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | Thickens the soup |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Enhances all the flavors |
| Bacon bits (optional) | For topping | Adds a smoky, crispy touch |
| Green onions (optional) | For garnish | Adds freshness and color |
Ingredient Highlights
- Cheddar cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest results, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents.
- Potatoes: These add heartiness and make the soup filling. Dice them evenly for uniform cooking.
- Ground beef: Brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor and to remove excess grease.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Add the sautéed vegetables, cooked ground beef, potatoes, and broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine and cover with the lid.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth.
- Stir the cream mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional bacon bits, green onions, or extra cheese.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Burger Soup
Choose the Right Cheese
Sharp cheddar provides the boldest flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Don’t Skip the Sautéing
Sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Thicken to Your Liking
If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Customize Your Add-Ins
Try adding diced tomatoes, green chilies, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair With Crusty Bread
A slice of warm, crusty bread or a bread bowl is perfect for dipping into this creamy soup.
Add a Side Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a fresh, crisp salad on the side.
Make It a Meal
For a heartier dinner, serve the soup alongside a platter of grilled cheese sandwiches.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Soup FAQ
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe.
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Clumping?
Add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup.
A Bowl of Comfort
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the coziness of a warm bowl of soup. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply looking for an easy, satisfying meal, this recipe delivers every time. Try it out and enjoy a bowl of cheesy, hearty goodness!