Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

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 not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various occasions, from family dinners to game day gatherings. With its rich taste and comforting texture, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and aromatic vegetables creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like crispy Turkey Bacon bits or extra cheese.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors of this comforting soup.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will ensure a smooth cooking process and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals without constant monitoring.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables for added flavor before combining them in the slow cooker.

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

Creamy Elements

• 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 or 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 the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well-mixed.

Step 4: Cook

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

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream

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

Step 6: Taste and Season

Adjust seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as 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 a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions for a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
• Crispy Turkey Bacon Bits: Add crispy turkey bacon bits for an extra layer of crunch and taste.

Pair with Tasty Accompaniments

• Extra Shredded Cheese: A generous handful of shredded cheese on top makes the soup even cheesier.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or rolls for dipping.

Create a Meal Experience

• Salad on the Side: A fresh garden salad complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness.
• Cornbread or Biscuits: Cornbread or biscuits provide a sweet counterbalance to the savory soup.

How to Perfect Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

To ensure your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a richer flavor without excessive fat content.
• Add Vegetables Early: Incorporating vegetables like potatoes and carrots early enhances their tenderness.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper at different stages for optimal flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit before serving helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup can transform your meal into something special. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up this creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers provide a wholesome and filling complement to the soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your soup.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooey goodness of grilled cheese makes an excellent pairing with any soup.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, balancing out the creamy soup well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup game. Here are some pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Not browning the meat properly: Skipping this step can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Using too much liquid: Overloading with broth can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust as needed based on your preferences.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste your soup before serving can result in blandness. Always taste and tweak the seasonings right before serving.
• Neglecting vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Ensure that all veggies are diced into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Adding cheese too early: Introducing cheese too soon can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly. Wait until 30 minutes before serving to mix in the cheese and cream.
• Overcooking the soup: Cooking for too long may result in mushy vegetables. Keep an eye on cooking times, especially if using a higher setting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide plenty of flavor while reducing fat content.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How spicy is Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

This recipe is not inherently spicy. If you prefer some heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is not only warm and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings like green onions or extra cheese based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s perfect for chilly days!