This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is a warm and hearty treat! It combines ground beef, cheese, potatoes, and veggies for a creamy, filling dish that’s perfect on a chilly day.
Trust me, this soup is so easy to make. I just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic. And the best part? It tastes like a cheeseburger in a bowl! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and fat. If you want a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or black beans instead.
Onion & Garlic: Diced onions add sweetness when cooked. Feel free to swap yellow onions for white or red onions. For garlic, fresh is great, but garlic powder could work in a pinch—start with 1/4 tsp.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth adds depth, but store-bought works fine too. You could use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different taste, especially if you’re keeping it lighter.
Potatoes: I enjoy using Russet potatoes for their creaminess, but Yukon gold potatoes are nice too! Sweet potatoes could add a fun twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor that’s delightful. For a different cheese experience, consider using Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Vegetables in Your Soup?
Cooking vegetables just right is key to a tasty soup. In this recipe, they should be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by dicing your vegetables uniformly. This ensures even cooking.
- Add the harder veggies like potatoes and carrots to the crockpot first, since they take longer to soften.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours so the flavors blend beautifully. If you’re short on time, the high setting for 3-4 hours works, too.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese and milk. This gives it a creamy finish without overcooking the veggies.
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup takes about 20 minutes to prepare, and you will need to cook it for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a great make-ahead meal, perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess grease and then transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.
2. Add the Vegetables and Liquid:
In the crockpot, add the beef broth, diced potatoes, diced carrots, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so all the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot and let the soup cook. If you’re cooking on low, set it for 6-8 hours. If on high, aim for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
4. Mix in the Cheese and Cream:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or heavy cream. Mix everything together until the cheese has melted and is well blended in with the soup. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is heated through, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your cozy bowl of cheeseburger soup!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef will work just fine. Just keep in mind that it may have less fat, so you might want to add a little olive oil to the skillet when browning the meat to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have potatoes on hand, you can use cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option, or even pasta or rice. Just note that cooking times may vary—if using rice, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage; just make sure to leave out the cheese and cream if you plan to freeze, as they can change texture when reheated. Add them back in when you reheat!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Sure! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture!
