Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty soups and love the rich, comforting taste of cheeseburgers, then this Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup is going to be your new favorite meal. This delicious, creamy soup is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with potatoes, vegetables, ground beef, and loads of cheese, it’s a family-friendly dish that satisfies every craving for comfort food. Plus, the crock pot makes it incredibly convenient!

Why This Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is Perfect for You

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves quick and easy meals that deliver big on flavor. It’s especially great for families because it’s packed with hearty ingredients that are both filling and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing weeknight dinners, or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly evening, this Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup fits the bill. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to go about your day!

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup such a hit:

• 4 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Russet potatoes add structure and heartiness to the soup.
• 1 small white or yellow onion, chopped: Onions bring sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup diced celery: Provides a nice crunch and earthy flavor to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the flavor with its sweet, slightly peppery notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal touch to the dish.
• 3 cups chicken broth: The base of the soup, adding savory depth.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: The star of the show, giving the soup its cheeseburger flavor.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Used for making a simple roux that thickens the soup.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the milk into a creamy sauce.
• 2 cups milk (I use 2%): Adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the dish and enhance the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little kick to balance the creaminess.
• 1 package (16 ounces) Velveeta cheese, cubed OR 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, giving it that signature cheeseburger taste.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need:

• Crock pot (slow cooker): The essential tool for slow-cooking the soup to perfection.
• Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and making the roux.
• Whisk: To blend the butter and flour for a smooth sauce.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping the vegetables.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure you get the right balance of ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup

1. Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes, chopping the onion, shredding the carrots, and dicing the celery. Place these vegetables into your crock pot. Add the dried basil and parsley, then pour the chicken broth over everything. Cover the crock pot with the lid.

2. Cook the Soup
Set the crock pot on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or high heat for 4 to 5 hours. This will allow the potatoes and vegetables to cook until tender. The long cooking time also helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

3. Prepare the Ground Beef
About 45 minutes before serving, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and add the beef to the crock pot.

4. Make the Roux
Using the same skillet, wipe it out with a paper towel and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden brown and bubbly. Slowly whisk in the milk, then add the salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Pour this creamy mixture into the crock pot and stir everything together.

5. Add the Cheese
Next, add the cubed Velveeta or shredded cheddar cheese to the crock pot. Stir gently to combine. Cover the crock pot and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well-combined and creamy, your Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup is ready to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, top with extra shredded cheese if desired, and enjoy it warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheeseburger Soup

• Not cooking the ground beef thoroughly: Ensure the ground beef is fully browned before adding it to the crock pot to avoid a greasy soup.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the soup too long on high can cause the potatoes to become mushy. If you’re unsure, stick with the low heat setting.
• Skipping the roux: The butter-flour mixture is key to thickening the soup. Don’t skip this step if you want that creamy, velvety texture!

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this soup gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese to make the soup dairy-free.
• Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or simply omit the meat for a veggie-packed version.

How to Serve and Garnish Your Soup

For the perfect presentation, ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of parsley, or even crumbled cooked bacon (optional). Pair the soup with a side of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up all the creamy goodness. If you want to make it a fuller meal, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much after being chilled or frozen.

FAQ About Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While Velveeta or cheddar cheese is recommended for that creamy cheeseburger flavor, you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the base of the soup (without the cheese) a day ahead, and then reheat it, adding the cheese just before serving.

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup is a must-try for anyone looking for a cozy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for busy days, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of dish that the whole family will love. Try it out and don’t forget to share your version of the recipe with us. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, family-friendly meals!

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