If comforting, rich, and downright delicious dishes are your jam, you are going to fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. Imagine all the savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger melting together in a creamy, hearty soup you can set and forget. Loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned ground beef, this soup brings together flavor and comfort in a way that makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you need a crowd-pleaser, this recipe will quickly become your new go-to cozy meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe lies partly in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the tender russet potatoes adding heartiness to the sharp, melty cheese delivering that satisfying cheeseburger punch. These straightforward ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich and flavorful bowl that pleases the whole family.
- 4 small russet potatoes (peeled and diced): They provide a comforting, starchy base and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- 1 small white or yellow onion (chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances herbal notes without overwhelming the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds freshness and a gentle earthiness.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein star of the dish, cooked and crumbled for texture.
- 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped): Crisp, smoky bacon bits that elevate every bite.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Used for the roux to create silky creaminess.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to perfect, luscious consistency.
- 2 cups milk (2% preferred): Adds richness and smoothness without heaviness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the soup a little gentle kick.
- 2 cups shredded pepper-jack cheese (or cheddar): Melts into gooey cheeseburger magic.
- Green onion (chopped for garnish): Adds fresh color and a mild bite as a finishing touch.
How to Make Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Start the Slow Cooker
Begin by placing the diced potatoes, chopped onions, shredded carrots, dried basil, and parsley into your crock pot. Pour the chicken broth over the veggies, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover with the lid and set the cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. Your goal is to have tender potatoes soaking up all the savory aroma, laying the foundation for flavors to deepen beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Add Bacon
About 45 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup light but flavorful. Then, stir the cooked beef and chopped bacon slices right into the slow cooker. This step adds that iconic cheeseburger meatiness with a smoky punch from the bacon.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Roux and Add Milk
Carefully wipe out your hot skillet with a paper towel, then melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook until the mixture turns golden brown and bubbly—this encourages a rich, nutty flavor in your soup base. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, and pepper, creating a smooth, thickened mixture. Pour this creamy blend into your slow cooker, stirring well to combine with the hearty veggies and meat.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Finally, fold in the shredded pepper-jack cheese and cover the slow cooker again. Let it cook for another 20 minutes or so until the cheese is completely melted and the soup achieves that irresistibly creamy texture. The cheese brings the entire dish together, adding the perfect cheeseburger twist that makes every bite so comforting and indulgent.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions brightens up each bowl with fresh color and a mild oniony crunch. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or extra crispy bacon bits if you want to turn up the richness and texture even more—these little touches make serving feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own, but if you want to build a complete meal, consider pairing it with a crusty artisan bread or warm garlic rolls to sop up every last drop. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that balances the creamy soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls—imagine hollowed-out rolls filled to the brim with cheesy, meaty goodness. You can also top each bowl with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or finely chopped pickles to mimic that authentic burger flavor profile. Presentation is an easy way to impress family and friends!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, your delicious leftovers will last up to 3 days, maintaining that amazing flavor and creamy texture you love.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring regularly to keep the cheese from sticking or separating. If it seems too thick after reheating, just add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to its perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use cheddar cheese instead of pepper-jack?
Absolutely! Cheddar cheese is a fantastic alternative and will give the soup a classic cheeseburger vibe. Pepper-jack just adds a little extra kick if you prefer a bit of spice.
Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can work in a pinch, but fresh vegetables tend to hold their texture better during the long cooking time, creating a more satisfying bite in your soup.
Can I make this soup in a regular pot on the stove?
You certainly can! Start by simmering the veggies in broth until tender, then follow the rest of the steps on the stove. Just watch your heat carefully to avoid scorching the cheese sauce.
What could I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
Beef broth or vegetable broth are excellent substitutes, each adding a slightly different but equally delicious flavor dimension to the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
To lighten it up, you can use low-fat milk or even a milk alternative, and opt for turkey bacon instead of pork bacon without sacrificing the smoky flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience, capturing all the best parts of a cheeseburger in one irresistible bowl. I can’t recommend it enough for those days when you want something cozy, family-friendly, and effortlessly delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation—you’re going to love how easy and satisfying this soup is!
Print
Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, packed with tender potatoes, ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted pepper-jack cheese, simmered to perfection for a rich and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small white or yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Broth and Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (2%)
- 2 cups shredded pepper-jack cheese (or cheddar cheese)
Protein
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Green onion, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables and Start Slow Cooking: Place the peeled and diced potatoes, chopped onion, shredded carrots, dried basil, and dried parsley into a large slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the vegetables. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Cook the Ground Beef: About 45 minutes before serving, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and crumble the lean ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease. Transfer the cooked ground beef into the slow cooker along with the chopped, cooked bacon.
- Make the Roux and Add Dairy: Wipe out the hot skillet carefully with a paper towel to remove residue, then add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until the roux is golden brown and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk along with salt and black pepper to make a creamy sauce. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir everything together well.
- Add Cheese and Finish Cooking: Stir the shredded pepper-jack cheese into the slow cooker mixture. Cover with the lid and cook for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a bright burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bacon cheeseburger soup.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, use less chicken broth or reduce the soup slightly by cooking uncovered for a short time after the final step.
- Substitute cheddar cheese if pepper-jack is not available.
- You can prepare the soup up to step 3 the night before; add the cheese and finish cooking just before serving.
- Lean ground beef reduces grease but still provides rich flavor.
- The soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
