If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting meal bursting with flavor, look no further than Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup. This irresistible soup combines all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger—savory beef, melty cheddar, tangy pickles—into a bowl that’s unbelievably easy to make. With only a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you’ll be letting your slow cooker do the work while your kitchen fills with the warming aromas of this hearty favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s nothing fancy required for this Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup, just classic, down-to-earth ingredients that come together to create something magical. Each plays an important part, building layers of savory satisfaction, cheesy richness, and that unmistakable burger comfort.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and the backbone of that burger flavor we all crave.
- Onion (chopped): Brings sweetness and gentle depth that meld into every bite.
- Garlic (minced): Just a couple of cloves add a subtle punch that wakes up the whole pot.
- Beef broth: The base that gives this soup its robust, meaty depth.
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup: Delivers instant creamy, cheesy goodness—no shredding required yet!
- Condensed cream of potato soup: Lends body and velvety texture, plus an extra layer of comfort.
- Diced tomatoes (drained): Pops of acidity and color, making every spoonful exciting.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Super convenient and make this soup look just as good as it tastes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts right in for luxurious cheesiness that stretches temptingly from spoon to bowl.
- Milk: Rounds everything out with a creamy finish and brings the cheese together beautifully.
- Worcestershire sauce: That little dash of savory magic, enhancing all the beefy flavors.
- Yellow mustard: Just a touch gives that classic burger zing—trust me, you’ll notice it in the best way.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a whisper of smokiness, as if your burger soup just came off the grill.
- Salt and black pepper: Let your own taste be your guide for the perfect seasoning balance.
- Chopped pickles or crumbled bacon (optional): The ultimate burger garnish for a burst of crunch and extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Start by browning the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat. This first step is all about building that deep, savory flavor. Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks so you get those irresistible little browned bits throughout your soup. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Spoon the browned beef mixture into your slow cooker. Now, add in the beef broth, cheddar cheese soup, cream of potato soup, drained tomatoes, mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir, making sure those soups dissolve and everything mingles together—it’s already smelling like burger heaven.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 7 hours, or crank it up to high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re in a hurry. This low-and-slow approach allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures every spoonful of your Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup is packed with goodness. Just resist the urge to peek too often (trust me, the wait is worth it).
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Milk
About 30 minutes before serving, lift the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. This is where the soup transforms from delicious to downright decadent! Replace the lid and let the mixture get irresistibly creamy and cheesy. If your soup is a little thinner than you like, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry now to thicken things up.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy All the Burger Vibes
Ladle the soup piping hot into bowls and top with chopped pickles or crumbled bacon if you like a little extra pizzazz (highly recommended!). That’s it—dinner is served, and you’ve turned classic burger flavors into the ultimate comfort food. Grab a spoon and dig in!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup
Garnishes
To truly capture that burger essence, don’t skip the garnishes! Try a sprinkle of chopped pickles for tangy crunch, a smattering of crispy crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, or even a light drizzle of ketchup or mustard if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s these finishing touches that make every bowl pop with personality and flavor.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it up makes for a fun, diner-style dinner. Toasted hamburger buns or garlic bread sticks are perfect for dunking and scooping up every last drop. If you want to keep things lighter, a fresh green salad with a zippy dressing balances all that creamy richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup in mini bread bowls or wide coffee mugs for a playful twist. For parties, set up a “burger soup bar” with little bowls of toppings—think pickled jalapeños, extra cheese, or even crispy fried onions—so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup keeps well for up to four days in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors continue to meld, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even more satisfying the next day! Just give it a good stir because the cheese can sometimes settle as it cools.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a chilly day, this soup freezes nicely. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers (leaving a little space for expansion). It’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to restore its velvety texture. You can also microwave single servings in 90-second bursts, stirring in between. If it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works really well and gives a lighter spin on the burger flavor while still keeping all that cheesiness front and center.
Is Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup gluten-free?
It can be, as long as you use gluten-free condensed soups. Always check the labels to be sure, especially on the soups and Worcestershire sauce.
What mixed vegetables should I use?
Any classic frozen veggie mix works—peas, carrots, corn, and green beans are my favorites. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand or prefer.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too runny?
A quick cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) stirred in during the last 30 minutes takes care of it and gives the soup a delightful, spoon-coating consistency.
Can I prep this recipe ahead?
You sure can! Brown the beef, onion, and garlic up to two days ahead and store in the fridge. On cooking day, just dump everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup enough for any day you’re craving comfort and big flavor with practically zero fuss. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite—the kind of recipe you’ll want to share with friends, again and again.
Print
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger in a delicious soup form. It’s easy to make in the slow cooker and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base:
- 3 cups beef broth
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of potato soup
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings:
- Chopped pickles or crumbled bacon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the Soup: Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add beef broth, cheddar cheese soup, cream of potato soup, drained tomatoes, frozen vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook in Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Finish the Soup: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Cover and cook until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with chopped pickles or crumbled bacon if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) during the last 30 minutes.
- Great served with toasted hamburger buns or croutons.
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