Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup
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There’s something about a big, cozy pot of soup simmering all afternoon that makes a house feel like home. On hectic weekdays when life feels loud and busy, I lean on recipes that practically cook themselves. This slow cooker cheeseburger soup has become one of those family favorites—especially when the weather cools or we’re craving something hearty and familiar.
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The first time I made it, it was one of those “use what you have” nights: ground beef in the fridge, potatoes in the pantry, cheese that needed using up. Somehow, those simple ingredients transformed into a creamy, cheesy bowl that tasted exactly like a loaded cheeseburger—only warmer, cozier, and spoonable.
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Now it’s our go-to comfort meal for weeknights, game days, and even casual holidays. Savory beef, tender potatoes, melty cheddar, and a rich, creamy broth come together in a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
🍲 Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb, lean preferred | Reduces excess grease |
| Yellow onion | 1 small, finely diced | Adds sweetness |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Depth of flavor |
| Russet potatoes | 3 cups, peeled & diced | About 2–3 medium |
| Carrots | 1 cup, finely chopped | Adds color & sweetness |
| Celery | 1 stalk, diced | Classic soup base |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups, low-sodium | Keeps flavors balanced |
| Dried parsley | 1 tsp | Optional herb |
| Dried basil | ½ tsp | Subtle flavor |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Gentle warmth |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Season at the end |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp | For roux |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | Thickens base |
| Whole milk | 1½ cups | Or half-and-half for richness |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded | Melty & bold |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Creamy finish |
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat until browned and soft. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Transfer beef mixture to crock pot. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, broth, parsley, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Make the Cream Base
About 20 minutes before serving, melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Finish
Pour milk mixture into crock pot. Stir in cheddar a handful at a time until melted. Add sour cream and stir until creamy.
Step 6: Final Simmer
Cover and cook on LOW for 15–20 minutes to thicken.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with cheeseburger-inspired garnishes—extra cheese, pickles, or even a drizzle of ketchup or mustard.
