If you’ve ever wished for a cozy, comforting bowl that tastes just like a classic cheeseburger but in soup form, your wish is granted with this Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with hearty ingredients like crispy bacon, tender ground beef, and melty cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. This soup feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends eager for a familiar, comforting flavor.

Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the savory bacon to the creamy cheese, creating the perfect balance of texture and richness.

6 slices bacon: Adds irresistible smoky crunch and depth to the soup.
1 pound ground beef: The meaty base brings heartiness and that classic cheeseburger flavor.
1 cup diced onion: Offers a sweet and pungent bite that enhances the overall savoriness.
1 cup minced carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and a hint of earthiness, plus a pop of color.
1 cup diced celery: Provides a fresh, crisp texture to balance the creamy broth.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses an herbal touch that lifts all the flavors.
3 cloves garlic minced: Delivers aromatic warmth and depth.
4 cups diced russet potatoes: Gives the soup body and a smooth, velvety texture when cooked.
3 cups low sodium chicken stock: Keeps the broth flavorful but not overpowering.
3 tablespoons butter: Essential for creating the rich roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to form the roux, giving the soup that creamy consistency.
1 ½ cups milk: Adds creaminess and softens the flavors.
2 ounces cream cheese: Enhances the richness with a smooth, tangy finish.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick of spice.
12 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Fresh parsley and diced onion (optional garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch for presentation and flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Ground Beef

Start by crisping the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s golden and crunchy. Set the cooked bacon aside on paper towels to drain, preserving its crispness. Using the same skillet, brown the ground beef thoroughly, draining off any excess fat before transferring it to the slow cooker. This step builds that essential meaty base full of flavor.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs

Next, toss the diced onion, minced carrots, celery, dried basil, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. These vegetables will slowly soften and blend together, infusing the soup with natural sweetness and aroma that make every spoonful comforting and complex.

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Stock, Then Cook

Add the diced russet potatoes and low sodium chicken stock to the slow cooker with all the other ingredients. Potatoes give the soup its lovely thickness and hearty texture. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until everything is tender and bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux

About an hour before the soup finishes cooking, whisk together the roux. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in flour and cook briefly for about 30 seconds. Slowly add the milk, cream cheese, salt, and pepper, whisking constantly. Simmer this mixture until it thickens to a creamy consistency. This smooth base is what turns our soup wonderfully velvety and rich.

Step 5: Combine Cheese and Final Touches

Add the roux and cubed Velveeta cheese to the slow cooker, stirring well so the cheese melts evenly into the soup, creating that ultra-cheesy, luscious texture. Once everything is melted and combined, the soup is ready to serve. Don’t forget to sprinkle the crispy bacon and optional fresh parsley and diced onions on top for the crunch and freshness that elevate this dish.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

Toppings like crispy bacon, chopped fresh parsley, and diced raw onions not only add eye-catching contrast but boost the flavor and texture, giving every spoonful a delightful bite. Feel free to get creative and add shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty soup with a crusty baguette or buttery garlic bread for dunking the delicious broth. A crisp green salad or coleslaw can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the soup’s rich, creamy nature, creating a perfectly rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or mini cast iron skillets at a casual dinner party. Adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can customize the heat level to suit your guests’ preferences, making the experience unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavors beautifully for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for satisfying next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but for best results, freeze it before adding any cream cheese or milk to avoid texture changes. Freeze in portions for easy thawing, and be sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand.

Reheating

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back its creamy texture. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up without losing that signature richness.

FAQs

Can I make Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! While bacon adds wonderful smoky flavor and crunch, you can skip it or substitute it with cooked sausage or turkey bacon depending on your preference.

Is it okay to use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other melty cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor. Just keep in mind that Velveeta melts very smoothly, which is why it’s a favorite for this soup.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh diced potatoes are ideal as they hold their texture better, but if you use frozen, add them closer to the end of the cooking time to avoid mushy potatoes.

What can I do to make the soup thicker or thinner?

If you prefer thicker soup, add a little more flour to the roux or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. To thin it out, simply add more chicken stock or milk while reheating.

Can this soup be made on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this soup on the stovetop by browning meat and vegetables in a large pot, then simmering everything together until tender, adding the roux and cheese last. It just won’t have the same low-and-slow depth of flavor but will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup has quickly become one of my favorite comfort foods to share with friends and family. Its rich, cheesy goodness combined with wholesome ingredients makes it a heartwarming dish perfect for any chilly day. I hope you give it a try soon and discover how effortlessly it brings coziness and joy to your table.