If you are craving comfort food with a cheesy, hearty twist, you are going to love this Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. This soup perfectly captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a rich, velvety broth loaded with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and makes weeknight dinners feel special without any fuss. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this soup has that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and satisfying that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create this comforting soup. Each one plays an important role, from creating that creamy texture to enhancing the cheesy, savory flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that gives the soup its rich, meaty base.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch without overpowering the soup.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: Provide hearty texture and absorb the savory broth beautifully.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that ties the ingredients together.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for a rich, cheesy delight.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, creamy mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess and depth.
- 2 cups milk: Helps to thin out the soup while keeping it creamy.
- 1/4 cup flour: Used to thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Forms the base of the roux and brings a rich flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Bacon bits (optional): Add a smoky crunch and extra savory notes.
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional): Provide a fresh, mild onion bite and vibrant color.
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial because it builds that rich, meaty foundation for your soup. Once cooked, drain any excess fat so the soup isn’t greasy, then transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and aromatic, around 2 to 3 minutes. This step releases the natural sweetness and aroma that elevate the entire soup. Add them to the slow cooker along with the beef.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Now it’s time to add the potatoes and chicken broth. The potatoes lend body and a comforting, chunky texture, while the broth is the flavorful liquid that ties everything together. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Set your slow cooker to low and let the soup cook for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully—truly the secret to that crave-worthy comfort taste.
Step 5: Prepare the Roux
About half an hour before dinner, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook it for 2 minutes. Then slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens perfectly. This step cleverly thickens the soup to a luscious, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Creams
Pour your thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker, then add cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir everything together until the cheese melts completely and the soup turns irresistibly creamy and silky. This finishing touch transforms the soup into a rich indulgence.
Step 7: Season and Add Garnishes
Finally, taste and season your soup with salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Serve hot and garnish with bacon bits and chopped green onions if you like, adding a delightful smoky crunch and fresh zing that complements the creamy soup perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding bacon bits and chopped green onions as garnishes is a fantastic way to brighten up the Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. Bacon provides a smoky, crispy contrast, while green onions add freshness and a pop of color to each bowl. You can also add shredded extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even a little hot sauce, depending on your preference.
Side Dishes
This cheesy, hearty soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crusty bread, buttery dinner rolls, or a fresh green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, making each bite even more satisfying. If you want to keep things light, a crisp garden salad balances out the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next cozy dinner? Serve the Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls for an adorable and edible presentation. You could also sprinkle some crushed potato chips or crispy fried onions on top to mimic the texture of a classic cheeseburger. These little touches make serving the soup feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, which is perfect if you want to make a big batch ahead of time. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage. This will restore its creamy texture and delicious cheeseburger flavor beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make lighter alternatives to beef and still work wonderfully in this Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream and sour cream?
While they add richness and creaminess, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. Sour cream gives a slight tang; however, you can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I add vegetables like carrots or celery?
Sure! Adding diced carrots or celery enhances the nutrition and flavor, giving the soup more texture and color. Just add them with the potatoes in Step 3 so they have enough time to soften.
How do I make this soup thicker or thinner?
If you like a thicker soup, add a little more flour to the roux or mash some of the potatoes during cooking. For a thinner consistency, simply add extra milk or broth until it reaches your desired thickness.
What toppings work best with this soup?
Bacon bits and green onions are classic, but you can also try shredded extra cheese, diced pickles for a cheeseburger twist, sour cream, or even a drizzle of mustard to bring out that authentic cheeseburger vibe in your soup.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, it’s a recipe any home cook can master and proudly serve. I promise once you try this soup, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy cheeseburger night in the most delicious, cozy way possible!
Print
Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy slow cooker cheeseburger soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. It features ground beef, tender potatoes, and a luscious blend of cheddar cheese and cream, all slow-cooked to perfection for a rich, flavorful soup that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables and Broth
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Thickener
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon bits (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Sauté aromatics: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add them to the slow cooker with the beef.
- Add potatoes and broth: Place the peeled and diced potatoes into the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything to combine evenly.
- Slow cook: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Prepare roux and milk mixture: About 30 minutes before serving, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Combine dairy components: Stir the thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker soup, then add shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Mix well and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season and serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish each serving with optional bacon bits and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk, and omit the sour cream.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop.
- Add more broth or milk to adjust soup thickness to your preference.
- Bacon bits add a nice smoky flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
