If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with cheesy, savory flavors, then Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup is the perfect recipe for you! This delicious soup combines the taste of a juicy burger with the creamy richness of cheese, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you want a filling, flavorful meal without much effort.
In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make this irresistible soup, share some tips for customizing it to your taste, and answer some frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to make a pot of comforting, cheesy soup that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup
1. Cheesy and Savory
This soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with the flavors of a burger—juicy ground beef, melty cheese, and the perfect blend of seasonings.
2. Convenient Slow Cooker Recipe
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. It takes minimal effort, and the results are a hearty meal that will make your house smell amazing.
3. Hearty and Filling
The combination of beef, cheese, and potatoes (or other veggies) makes this soup both satisfying and hearty. It’s a meal in itself that will keep you full and happy for hours.
4. Customizable
This soup can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences. Want to make it spicier? Add some jalapeños! Prefer a different type of cheese? You can swap it out to suit your tastes.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup
Before we get started, let’s take a look at the ingredients needed to make this cheesy, comforting soup. Below is a handy table for easy reference:
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | The base protein for the burger flavor |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds flavor and depth to the soup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | For aromatic flavor |
| Potatoes | 3 medium, diced | Adds heartiness and texture |
| Beef broth | 4 cups | Creates the base of the soup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | Adds creaminess and richness to the soup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups | The star ingredient for the cheesy flavor |
| Milk | 1 cup | To create a smooth, creamy texture |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | Enhances the savory flavor of the beef |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp | Adds a slight tanginess and enhances the burger flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning the soup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing the onions and garlic |
| Optional toppings | As desired | Chopped pickles, crispy bacon, green onions, etc. |
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will add extra flavor to your soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Add the Beef and Aromatics: Transfer the browned ground beef, sautéed onions, and garlic into your slow cooker.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. You can also cook on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese and Cheese
- Cream the Soup: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup, making it creamy and cheesy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish (Optional): Serve the soup hot with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, crumbled crispy bacon, or pickles for that true “burger” experience.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup
- Beef Variations: Feel free to use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this soup. Ground sausage or even ground pork will add a different flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup.
- Potato Substitutes: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini for a lighter version.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
- Toppings: Top the soup with your favorite burger toppings like crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350-400 per serving
- Fat: 22-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Sodium: 800-900 mg
For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheese, or swap out some of the potatoes for cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals. After cooking, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
If you don’t have fresh potatoes, you can use frozen diced potatoes in this recipe. Just add them straight to the slow cooker and cook as directed. They will soften up nicely during the slow cooking process.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this recipe, feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or skip the meat altogether. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or beans to make it heartier.
Conclusion: A Cheesy, Hearty Comfort Dish
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the classic flavors of a burger with the creamy richness of cheese in a soup form. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for those busy days when you want a filling, hearty meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this soup will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
So, grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of this cheesy, flavorful soup tonight. You’ll fall in love with every creamy, cheesy bite!