If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, look no further than slow cooker cheeseburger soup. This delightful dish combines all the flavors of your favorite burger into a comforting bowl of goodness. Imagine creamy, cheesy broth filled with tender ground beef, hearty potatoes, and vibrant veggies—all simmered to perfection while you go about your day. It’s an easy recipe that turns busy weeknights into something special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this slow cooker cheeseburger soup is its versatility; it can be customized to suit any taste preference or pantry staple you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe gives you both convenience and comfort in one delicious package. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering experience? Let’s gather those ingredients!

Credit: @Ashley. The Recipe Rebel

Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Recipe by Chef Juli

Servings

6-8

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hours

Calories

3,390

kcal

This Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, hearty bowl. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a velvety cheese base, this soup is slow-cooked to perfection for a deep, satisfying flavor. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or family dinners. Top it with crispy bacon, extra cheese, or crunchy croutons for the ultimate cozy comfort food experience!

Ingredients

For the Soup
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 cup celery, diced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Creamy Cheese Base
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsalted butter
For Garnishing (Optional)
Cooked and crumbled bacon
Extra shredded cheese
Chopped green onions
Crushed crackers or croutons

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
To the slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, shredded carrots, diced celery, and drained diced tomatoes (if using). Pour in the chicken broth and stir in dried basil, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
About 30 minutes before the soup is done, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the milk (or heavy cream), cooking until the mixture thickens. Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Pour the cheese mixture into the slow cooker and stir well to combine with the soup. Cover and let it cook for another 20–30 minutes on low, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crushed crackers if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors of this comforting slow cooker cheeseburger soup.

Notes

For the smoothest, creamiest texture, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese mixture or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving suggestions

When enjoying your slow cooker cheeseburger soup, consider topping it with crispy bacon bits for an added crunch. Freshly chopped green onions or chives can also enhance the flavor profile.

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top right before serving. It melts beautifully and creates a delightful gooey texture that complements the soup perfectly.

Pair this hearty dish with warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every drop of the rich broth. A simple side salad adds freshness and balances out the meal nicely.

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun presentation. This not only looks impressive but also allows you to enjoy every last bite!

Perfect Side Dishes

Garlic Bread – Buttery, crispy, and full of flavor, garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the rich and cheesy broth of the soup. The crunchy texture complements the creamy consistency, making each bite even more satisfying.
Crisp Garden Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. It balances the richness and adds a burst of freshness to your meal.

Conclusion

Slow cooker cheeseburger soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that brings the essence of a classic cheeseburger to your bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or serving guests at a casual gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can whip up this satisfying soup in their slow cooker. You can effortlessly customize it with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs, making each bowl uniquely yours.

As the cold months roll in, having hearty recipes like this one on hand is essential. It warms both body and soul while delivering delightful flavors that everyone will love. So gather those ingredients and let your slow cooker do its magic! You’ll be rewarded with an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a regular feature on your dining table.