Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup brings together the cozy, savory flavors of a classic burger in a warm, creamy soup. Made with ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and loads of cheese, this dish has all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in when you want a hearty, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This soup is rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavors. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing all the ingredients to meld together while you go about your day. With melted cheese, savory beef, and tender potatoes, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both indulgent and filling. It’s a great option for busy nights and can easily be doubled to serve a crowd.
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef, browned
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for a burger-like flavor)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Additional shredded cheese
- Pickle slices
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Breaking it into small pieces, cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside. For easier assembly later, dice the onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, add the browned ground beef, diced onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes. Sprinkle in the garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder if you’re using it for extra flavor.
3. Pour in the Broth
Pour the beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is submerged. The broth will form the base of the soup and help tenderize the potatoes and vegetables while cooking.
4. Cook on Low or High
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker, but you’ll know the soup is ready when the potatoes are tender, and the flavors have melded together.
5. Add Cheese and Cream
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir well, allowing the cheese to melt and blend with the broth, creating a creamy, cheesy texture. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is hot, ladle it into bowls. Add your favorite toppings—extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon add a burst of flavor and texture. For a burger-inspired twist, garnish with a few pickle slices.
Variations and Add-Ins:
- Add Bacon: For a richer flavor, cook and crumble some bacon, then add it to the soup for a smokier, burger-like taste.
- Spice It Up: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda.
- Extra Veggies: If you’d like to add more vegetables, toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread, rolls, or even tortilla chips for dipping. A side salad can add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, creamy soup. For a fun presentation, serve it in bread bowls or with grilled cheese sliders on the side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the cheese doesn’t separate. Add a splash of cream or broth if it’s too thick. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger Flavored Soup is a cozy, creamy dish with all the flavors of a cheeseburger, making it perfect for chilly days, casual dinners, or as a crowd-pleasing meal. With minimal prep time and a few hours in the slow cooker, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying soup that’s perfect for the whole family.