If you’re craving a comforting, rich meal that practically makes itself while you go about your day, you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. This soup combines all the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar, velvety cream, and tender potatoes—into one luscious, hearty bowl. It’s like your favorite burger transformed into a cozy, creamy soup that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want something satisfying without fussing in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, each playing a crucial role in building the classic cheeseburger flavor and luscious texture of the soup. From savory beef to creamy cheese and tender potatoes, every element contributes to a bowl of pure comfort.
- 1 lb ground beef: This is our hearty protein base that flavors the soup deeply as it cooks slowly to juicy perfection.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the richness with a bit of aromatic brightness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle kick and complexity to the overall flavor, enhancing every other ingredient.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: These provide comforting body and texture, soaking up the creamy broth beautifully.
- 3 cups chicken broth: A savory liquid base that ties together the ingredients without overpowering them.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for cheeseburger flavor, melting into a rich, gooey delight.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that makes the soup irresistibly smooth.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness, balancing the richness of cream and cheese.
- 2 cups milk: Used in the roux to create a creamy, thickened base for the soup.
- 1/4 cup flour: Essential for thickening, ensuring the soup has that irresistible velvety texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The foundation for the roux that gives body and a subtle buttery flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season and enhance all the natural flavors in the soup.
- Bacon bits (optional): Adds a smoky crunch and extra savory layer if you want to indulge even more.
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful topping that brightens up the bowl.
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s perfectly browned and no longer pink. This step builds a rich, meaty foundation while rendering out the excess fat, which you’ll want to drain to keep the soup from getting greasy. Transfer this flavorful beef into your slow cooker, setting the stage for slow, delicious melding with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn soft and fragrant. This little bit of caramelization unlocks their natural sweetness, adding a warm depth to your soup. Once ready, add them to the slow cooker alongside the beef.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Broth
Next, add the peeled and diced potatoes with the chicken broth to the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir so the potatoes are evenly coated and immersed in the flavorful liquid. These potatoes will cook slowly, absorbing all those cheeseburger-inspired flavors while becoming wonderfully tender.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low and let everything cook for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, set it on high for 3 to 4 hours. This gentle, steady cooking softens the potatoes and melds the flavors, creating a rich base that feels like it’s been simmering in love all day.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Roux
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking it for 2 minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce—this is the magic that will transform your soup into that luscious, creamy texture you crave.
Step 6: Add Dairy and Cheese
Pour your milk mixture into the slow cooker and then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir well until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes thick and velvety. Let it cook for another 30 minutes so all the flavors can marry and intensify in that dreamy creaminess we expect from a Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. To take it over the top, sprinkle bacon bits and chopped green onions on top for that extra pop of flavor and texture. Now it’s ready to serve and enjoyed—comfort food at its finest!
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like crispy bacon bits or freshly chopped green onions gives your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe an inviting finish with bursts of smoky crunch and color contrast. A little shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top also makes a beautiful presentation and adds richness to each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread, buttery dinner rolls, or a crisp green salad rounds out the experience perfectly. The bread is especially great for dipping into the creamy broth, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, turning the meal into an edible masterpiece. You could also offer little bowls of mix-ins like extra bacon, shredded cheese, or pickled jalapeños for guests to customize their own bowl. Presentation makes the meal feel even more festive and special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup successfully, but because of the dairy, it’s best to freeze it before adding the cheeses and cream. Freeze the base soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then stir in the dairy ingredients freshly before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and to help the cheese melt evenly. Add a splash of milk or cream if the soup feels too thick. Avoid reheating too quickly or at very high heat to preserve that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic and gives that authentic cheeseburger vibe, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a delicious, creamy soup with plenty of savory flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in an instant pot instead?
Definitely. Use the sauté function for browning the beef and onions, then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes. Finish by stirring in the dairy ingredients until melted and creamy.
How thick should this soup be?
The ideal consistency is thick and creamy, but still smooth enough to enjoy as a soup. Adjust thickness by adding more broth if too thick or simmer longer if too thin.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as rich. Adding sour cream helps maintain a creamy texture even with lighter dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is truly a heartwarming meal that fits into any busy schedule and tastes like it took hours of loving care. It’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends or family on those days when you need a little extra comfort. Don’t wait to try this one—it’s bound to become your new favorite go-to soup!
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Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty recipe perfect for a cozy meal. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, savory onions, and a rich blend of cheeses and cream, this soup simmers slowly to develop deep flavors. Topped with crispy bacon bits and fresh green onions, it mimics all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, luscious soup form.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Others
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon bits (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Add these to the slow cooker.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Put the peeled and diced potatoes along with the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Roux and Milk Mixture: About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook it for 2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the milk. Continue to cook this mixture until it thickens.
- Combine Cream and Cheese: Stir the thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker, then add cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Mix well and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese has fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with optional bacon bits and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this soup.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the dairy mixture.
- Make sure not to skip sautéing the onions and garlic as it adds depth of flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Feel free to add more cheese or cream to your desired creaminess level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
