Save A cozy, hearty soup that tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger — loaded with savory beef, melty cheddar, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon. The crockpot makes this easy and perfect for busy weeknights. Top with pickles or tomatoes for a classic cheeseburger finish.
I first served this soup on a chilly evening and my whole family was delighted by how it brought all the classic cheeseburger flavors into one comforting bowl.
Ingredients
- 4 bacon strips: cooked and chopped for topping
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef: main protein
- 1 yellow onion, diced: for flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: aromatic
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-inch pieces): adds texture
- ½ teaspoon salt: seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: seasoning
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth: liquid base
- 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can cheddar cheese soup: creamy component
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream: adds richness
- 8 ounces (225 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese, plus more for serving: cheesy flavor
- Pickle slices: optional topping
- Diced tomatoes: optional topping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan. Once cool, chop bacon and set aside for topping.
- Step 2:
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it browns, about 7 minutes. Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 3 minutes more until onion softens. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, and cheddar cheese soup. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5:
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Step 6:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar, pickle slices, and/or diced tomatoes as desired. Serve hot.
Save Serving this soup always brings smiles during our family gatherings, reminding us of cozy nights and good company.
Notes
For a gluten-free soup, ensure the cheddar cheese soup and broth are labeled gluten-free. Serve with toasted buns or croutons for a true cheeseburger feel.
Required Tools
Large skillet, slotted spoon, 6-quart crockpot (slow cooker), cutting board and knife, cheese grater, ladle.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheddar cheese, cream, cheese soup), Possible Gluten (canned soup, broth&check labels), Pork (bacon). Always verify product labels for allergens.
Save This crockpot cheeseburger soup is a comforting and easy recipe to prepare, perfect for any day you crave classic American flavors.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter option while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → How do I make the dish thicker?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before stirring in the cream and cheese to create a thicker, creamier texture.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free labeled cheddar cheese soup and beef broth. Always check product labels.
- → What toppings are recommended?
Classic toppings like chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes add flavor and texture contrasts.
- → Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cooking on HIGH for about 4 hours works well and yields tender potatoes and melded flavors.