Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

A warm, creamy Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a cozy bowl, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or family gatherings. This easy-to-make soup is not only delicious but also customizable with your favorite toppings, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep work and just a few ingredients, this soup cooks itself in the crockpot.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and seasonings creates a rich and satisfying taste that mimics a classic cheeseburger.
• Customizable Toppings: Top your soup with diced tomatoes, crispy Turkey Bacon bits, or extra cheese to make each bowl unique.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; this soup reheats beautifully!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheeseburger flavor, making it a hit for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup, you will need some essential tools to make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is key for slow-cooking the soup, allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully over hours.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping veggies quickly and safely.

Ingredients

A warm, creamy soup that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a cozy bowl, perfect for any chilly day. This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings!

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 3 cups potatoes, diced
• 2 cups carrots, diced
• 2 cups celery, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Creaminess

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings

• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped green onions
• Crispy Turkey Bacon bits
• Extra shredded cheese
• Sour cream

How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the beef broth, diced potatoes, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with juices), Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream

About 30 minutes before serving time, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Continue cooking until cheese has melted and soup is creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Taste and Season

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, crispy Turkey Bacon bits, extra shredded cheese, or sour cream. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is not just delicious on its own but also a versatile meal that can be enhanced with various toppings and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Toppings

• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Chopped Green Onions: These add a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor.
• Crispy Turkey Bacon Bits: For those who love a bit of crunch, turkey bacon bits provide a savory touch without pork.
• Extra Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.

Bread Pairing

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist and complements the cheeseburger taste.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

How to Perfect Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

To ensure your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these useful tips.

• Choose Quality Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adding spices gradually helps achieve the perfect balance.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to cook thoroughly in the slow cooker for best flavor development.
• Experiment with Cheese Variations: Try different cheese types like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing complement the rich soup well.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the creamy texture of the soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet and salty addition to your meal.
6. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers make for a healthy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to avoid those pitfalls.

• Bold flavor choices: Using too little seasoning can make your soup bland. Ensure you taste and adjust the flavors with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Bold cheese choices: Adding cheese too early may result in a grainy texture. Stir it in about 30 minutes before serving for a creamy finish.
• Bold vegetable cuts: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Ensure your potatoes, carrots, and celery are diced uniformly for even tenderness.
• Bold liquid levels: Not using enough broth can make your soup thick or dry. Follow the recipe measurements for a perfectly balanced consistency.
• Bold cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking can change the texture of your veggies. Use a timer to keep track of cooking time based on your slow cooker settings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The soup should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef and will work well in this recipe.

How can I make my Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick!

What toppings go well with Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

You can top it with diced tomatoes, green onions, crispy turkey bacon bits, or extra shredded cheese.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

Cooking on low takes about 6-8 hours, while high settings require about 3-4 hours.

Can I add more vegetables to my cheeseburger soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or corn according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and ingredients based on your preferences. This cozy soup is perfect for chilly days and family gatherings—give it a try today!