Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious and comforting meal that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy soup. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something hearty and satisfying. The slow cooker makes it easy, with minimal prep work, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully over time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you may already have on hand!
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and cubed into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 32 oz beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1 cup heavy cream
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, shredded carrots, diced celery, beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cubed Velveeta, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like crumbled bacon, pickles, or toasted sesame seeds.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is best served hot, topped with your favorite garnishes. You can add crumbled bacon, pickles, or even a drizzle of extra ketchup. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a full meal. Enjoy it on a cold day for a comforting treat!
How to Store Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
To store the leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to leave some room in the container for expansion when freezing.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat and make the soup lighter.
- Chop your vegetables evenly for consistent cooking times.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste; adding a little more salt or pepper can enhance the flavor.
- For added richness, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
You can mix up the ingredients by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or corn. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or some crushed red pepper flakes. You could also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning the beef adds flavor and helps to render out excess fat, but it’s not absolutely necessary if you’re short on time.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! You can add any of your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as diced onions, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of mustard.
Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, shredded carrots, diced celery, beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cubed Velveeta, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like crumbled bacon, pickles, or toasted sesame seeds.