If you have ever dreamed of capturing the cozy, comforting flavors of your favorite cheeseburger in a warm bowl of soup, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Combining hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, melty cheddar, and just the right touch of spices, this recipe transforms classic burger ingredients into a rich, velvety soup that feels like a big, tasty hug. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual family dinners, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare and delivers mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of wholesome, straightforward ingredients, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe comes together easily, yet each element plays a special role in building the soup’s hearty texture and bold flavors. From savory ground beef to creamy cheeses and vibrant vegetables, these components work in harmony to create a soup that’s both satisfying and colorful.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show providing rich, meaty flavor and protein to the soup.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant punch that complements the savory beef perfectly.
- 3 cups beef broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Offers a gentle tang with a hint of heat to brighten the soup.
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes: Contributes hearty texture and soak-up-the-flavor goodness.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely pop of color.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Enhances warmth and a mild smoky undertone.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Lifts the flavor profile with a slight tangy bite.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy richness that makes this soup decadently cheesy.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the soup smooth and silky.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Provides luxurious thickness and indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening): Helps achieve a luscious, spoon-coating texture.
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch slurry): Needed to dissolve cornstarch without lumps.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Brings a final layer of richness and smooth finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef along with the diced onion. Brown everything until the beef is cooked through and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from getting too oily. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant—this quick step really boosts the depth of flavor before everything moves into the slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the savory beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Next, add the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced potatoes, shredded carrots, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all those beautiful ingredients evenly—this is where the magic begins. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, just waiting for the potatoes and carrots to become tender and soak up those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Cream for Ultimate Creaminess
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and heavy cream. This step transforms the broth into a velvety, rich soup that tastes like a cheese sauce you want to dive right into. For a thicker soup, whisk cornstarch with water in a small bowl to make a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker along with the butter. Cover and let it cook for another 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Wait until the cheese is melted, and the soup is creamy and luscious with just the right thickness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can turn this delicious soup into an even more delightful experience. Crumbled bacon brings a smoky crunch, while chopped pickles add a tangy bite that reminds you of your favorite burger toppings. For an extra level of fun and texture, try toasted burger bun croutons—crunchy little pillows of bread that soak up every cheesy drop beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides that don’t compete but complement its hearty nature. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while classic garlic bread or soft dinner rolls make perfect companions for dipping and mopping up every cheesy, beefy bit.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends or family, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or rustic stoneware bowls to give it an inviting, cozy appeal. You could even sprinkle some extra sharp cheddar or green onions on top right before serving for that vibrant pop of color and extra flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain all the creamy goodness and savory flavors. When you reheat, stirring occasionally helps keep the soup smooth and prevents separation.
Freezing
Freezing the soup is possible but with a little caution because dairy-heavy soups can sometimes change texture. If you plan to freeze portions, cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some room at the top because the soup will expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, warm the soup slowly over medium-low heat on the stove while stirring regularly to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help bring back that creamy consistency if it feels too thick. Microwaving works too—just heat in shorter batches and stir between intervals for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute if you want a leaner option. The flavors will still be delicious, though a bit lighter, so you might consider adding a touch more seasoning to keep that bold cheeseburger taste.
Is it necessary to use cornstarch for thickening?
No, the cornstarch is optional. The cheese and cream already help thicken the soup nicely, but if you prefer a heartier, stew-like texture, the cornstarch slurry is a great trick to get there without changing the taste.
Can this soup be made on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the beef and onions as instructed, then simmer the rest of the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir in the cheese and cream last, cooking gently until melted and creamy.
What can I use if I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies?
You can substitute plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for that mild kick. Adjust according to your spice preference, and you’ll still get a delicious flavor balance.
How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?
Omit the green chilies for a milder flavor and consider using Velveeta cheese instead of sharp cheddar for extra creaminess and a taste that many kids love. You can also serve the soup with fun burger-shaped grilled cheese sandwiches on the side!
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone who loves the comforting, nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger but is craving something warm and spoonable. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly customizable, and deeply satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try — your family and friends will thank you for the cozy, cheesy, burger-inspired goodness it brings to your table.
Print
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Containing
Description
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup combines all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting soup. Featuring browned ground beef, tender potatoes, shredded carrots, and a rich blend of cheddar cheese, milk, and cream, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers the nostalgia of a cheeseburger in every savory spoonful.
Ingredients
Protein and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Spices and Thickeners
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef and aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine in the slow cooker: Transfer the cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice), peeled and diced potatoes, shredded carrots, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir all ingredients together until combined.
- Slow cook the soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add dairy and thicken if desired: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and heavy cream. If a thicker consistency is preferred, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the soup. Add the butter for extra richness.
- Finalize the soup texture: Cover and continue cooking the soup on low for another 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cheese to melt completely and the soup to thicken to a creamy consistency.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional garnishes such as chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or toasted burger bun croutons to enhance the cheeseburger flavor experience.
Notes
- Top with chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or toasted burger bun croutons for fun burger vibes.
- Use Velveeta cheese instead of cheddar for extra meltiness and creamier texture.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a leaner version of the soup.
