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 on a chilly evening, and it quickly became a family favorite comforting meal we return to again and again.
Ingredients
- Meats: 4 bacon strips, 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 yellow onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-inch pieces)
- Seasonings: ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Liquids: 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
- Dairy & Cheese: 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can cheddar cheese soup, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, 8 ounces (225 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese, plus more for serving
- Toppings (Optional): Pickle slices, Diced tomatoes
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 My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this hearty soup, especially on cold days when nothing else feels right.
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). If unsure of ingredients, always verify product labels for allergens.
Save This crockpot cheeseburger soup is sure to become a go-to meal when you need a comforting and simple dish on the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beef works best?
Lean ground beef is ideal for this dish, offering hearty flavor without excess fat. It browns nicely and blends well with other ingredients.
- → Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the cheddar cheese soup and broth you use are labeled gluten-free. This helps avoid hidden gluten in processed ingredients.
- → How can I thicken the soup?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding cream and cheese to naturally thicken the soup without extra starches.
- → Are there meat alternatives for this dish?
Ground turkey or chicken can substitute for beef for a lighter flavor and texture while keeping the dish rich and satisfying.
- → What toppings enhance the flavors?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra shredded cheddar, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes add texture and a fresh finish reminiscent of classic cheeseburger tastes.
- → How long should it cook in the crockpot?
Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours until potatoes are tender and flavors meld fully.