If you’re craving a rich, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you absolutely need to try this Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. It captures all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger—ground beef, creamy cheddar, and potatoes—in a luscious, velvety soup that simmers gently in your slow cooker while you get on with your day. Each spoonful delivers savory goodness, perfectly melded textures, and that delightful cheesy punch that keeps you coming back for more. This soup is pure comfort made incredibly simple and fuss-free, perfect for family dinners or cozy weekend lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component is essential: the ground beef provides hearty protein, while the potatoes add a satisfying bite and body to the soup. Cheddar cheese brings that unmistakable cheeseburger zing, and the blend of cream, sour cream, and milk guarantees rich, velvety texture. Fresh aromatics like onions and garlic deepen the savory notes, while optional garnishes add the perfect finishing touch.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty but not greasy.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory kick that complements the beef.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: These lend body and an irresistible creaminess as they cook down.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base that nurtures all the ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: A classic cheeseburger staple that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the soup’s texture.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Balances the richness with a slight tang.
- 2 cups milk: Helps create a silky, luscious soup without overpowering flavors.
- 1/4 cup flour: Used to thicken the soup into that perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Essential for the roux that thickens the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Key seasonings to bring all the flavors alive.
- Bacon bits (optional): A crispy, smoky garnish that adds textural contrast.
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful topping to brighten each bite.
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 brown the ground beef. This builds the savory foundation for your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. Make sure to drain the excess fat for a cleaner taste, then transfer the beef to your slow cooker. This way, all those tasty browned bits will add depth as the soup cooks.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook them just until they turn soft and fragrant—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. These aromatics bring a lovely sweetness and gentle pungency that perfectly balance the rich beef. Add them directly to the slow cooker with the browned beef.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Next, add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. This is where the soup really starts to come together. The potatoes will soak up the flavorful broth as they cook, thickening the soup naturally and adding comforting heartiness. Give everything a good stir to combine those ingredients well in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer allows the potatoes to soften perfectly and lets all the flavors mingle and deepen beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the broth smells irresistible—a true sign your soup is nearing its creamy finish.
Step 5: Make the Roux and Milk Mixture
About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook it for 2 minutes to form a roux, which is the secret behind the soup’s luxurious thickness. Slowly whisk the milk into the roux and continue cooking until the mixture thickens up, creating a smooth, creamy base that will elevate the entire soup.
Step 6: Combine Cheese and Cream
Pour the thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. This step transforms your soup into the rich, velvety masterpiece that makes this recipe unforgettable. Let it cook an additional 30 minutes so the cheese can melt fully and everything blends perfectly.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Finish by seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. This simple addition will bring all the flavors to their peak. Serve your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe with optional crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions for a lively burst of texture and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this soup is how versatile it is with garnishes. Crispy bacon bits add a crunch and smoky contrast, while chopped green onions inject a fresh, vibrant note that brightens the creamy richness. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar can also enhance the visual appeal and cheesiness. Don’t be shy—these little extras really take it to the next level!
Side Dishes
Pair your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe with warm crusty bread or classic buttery dinner rolls. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess nicely, creating a balanced meal. For a retro diner vibe, serve with some kettle-cooked potato chips or pickles on the side—they echo the cheeseburger inspiration perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an adorable and edible presentation that’s sure to impress guests. You can also layer it into a clear glass mug for a cozy, inviting look that reveals all those colorful potatoes and vibrant cheese. For a fun twist, top each bowl with little sliders on the side to complete the cheeseburger experience in bite-sized fashion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its rich, creamy texture and flavorful goodness. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating to redistribute the ingredients evenly.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers if you want to save some for another day. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top because the soup will expand as it freezes. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Keep in mind that dairy-based soups sometimes change texture slightly after freezing, but a good stir when reheating helps restore its creamy charm.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve that perfectly creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative while still delivering great flavor. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly for the best taste.
Is it possible to make this soup without dairy?
While dairy adds the signature creaminess, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like oat or cashew milk. Use dairy-free cheese substitutes to keep the cheeseburger flavor intact, though the texture might be slightly different.
Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics in a pot, then add the potatoes and broth, simmering until potatoes are tender. Add your roux and dairy ingredients last, cooking gently until thickened and cheesy.
What can I add to make this soup spicier?
Feel free to stir in some chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even a few dashes of hot sauce. Just start small and adjust to your preferred heat level to keep the cheeseburger balance harmonious.
How thick should the soup be?
This soup should be rich and creamy, coating your spoon nicely without being too runny or overly thick. The roux and dairy mixture create a velvety texture that holds together but still feels spoonable and comforting.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that make you feel instantly at home. It’s a perfect blend of ease and indulgence—a slow-cooked masterpiece that delivers classic cheeseburger flavors in a luscious, creamy soup. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite that you’ll turn to again and again.
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Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a rich and comforting dish combining ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese broth. Prepared mainly in a slow cooker, it allows flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, making it an easy, hearty meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add this mixture to the slow cooker with the beef.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Place the peeled and diced potatoes along with the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir all the ingredients to combine evenly.
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and flavors are well blended.
- Prepare Roux and Milk Mixture: About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Combine Dairy and Cheese: Stir the thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker. Add shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir well and continue cooking for another 30 minutes to ensure the cheese melts fully and the soup becomes creamy.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with optional bacon bits and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use full-fat cheeses and creams for a richer soup, or substitute with lower-fat versions if preferred.
- If you want a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly.
- For a quicker version, you can brown and sauté the ingredients directly in the slow cooker if it has a sauté function.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Add some diced carrots or celery in step 3 for extra vegetables and flavor.
