Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of creamy, cheesy, beefy goodness – a cheeseburger, but in soup form. That’s exactly what this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup delivers! As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup, and this recipe is an absolute winner. I’ve been making this recipe for years, perfecting it with tweaks and tricks that ensure it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Forget standing over a hot stove; this slow cooker wonder does all the work for you, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of everyone’s favorite burger joint flavors. This recipe is easily customizable, too, allowing you to add your own personal flair. Get ready to discover your new favorite cozy night dinner!

As a seasoned home cook with a passion for creating easy, delicious meals, I’ve put my years of experience into crafting this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup recipe. My expertise lies in taking classic comfort foods and reimagining them for the modern kitchen, focusing on simple techniques and bold flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend gathering. Plus, with the rising popularity of slow cooker recipes and the enduring love for cheeseburgers, this soup is right on trend, promising a delightful and satisfying meal for everyone.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup lies in its simple, readily available ingredients. Let’s break down each element and discuss potential substitutions.

• Ground Beef: 1 pound. I prefer using lean ground beef (85/15) to minimize excess grease, but any ground beef will work. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Ground beef provides the savory foundation of the soup. The protein in the beef contributes to satiety and provides essential amino acids.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Yellow or white onion both work well. Onion adds a crucial layer of aromatic flavor. When cooked, onions release sulfur compounds that contribute to a savory and slightly sweet taste.
• Carrots: 2 medium, chopped. Carrots add sweetness, color, and texture. They also provide beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function.
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped. Celery contributes to the aromatic base and adds a subtle crunch. Celery contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, folate, and potassium.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and savory flavor. It contains allicin, a compound known for its potential health benefits.
• Beef Broth: 4 cups. Use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of the soup. Chicken broth can be used as a substitute, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile. The broth provides the liquid base for the soup.
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained. Diced tomatoes add acidity, sweetness, and body to the soup. They also provide lycopene, an antioxidant.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons. Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness to the soup. It contains concentrated lycopene.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon. Worcestershire sauce adds umami and depth of flavor. Its complex flavor profile comes from a blend of vinegar, molasses, tamarind, and spices.
• Dry Mustard: 1 teaspoon. Dry mustard adds a subtle tang and enhances the other flavors. It contains compounds that can act as antioxidants.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the soup.
• Velveeta Cheese: 16 ounces, cubed. Velveeta cheese is key for that classic cheeseburger flavor and creamy texture. You can substitute with cheddar cheese or a cheddar blend for a sharper flavor, but it might not melt as smoothly.
• Milk or Half-and-Half: ½ cup. This adds extra creaminess. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or half-and-half depending on your preference. For a richer flavor, use heavy cream.
• Optional Toppings: Shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, green onions, pickles, sour cream, ketchup, mustard.

Expert Tips

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup even better. Here are some of my top tips:

• Brown the Beef: While you can skip this step, browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor that’s truly worth the extra effort. It also helps to render off some of the fat.
• Don’t Overcook the Cheese: Add the Velveeta during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Think about all the things you love on your cheeseburger and add them to your soup. Pickles, ketchup, mustard, and even a dollop of sour cream are all great options.
• Spice it Up: Add a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.

Storage & Substitutions

Here’s what you need to know about storing leftovers and making ingredient substitutions:

• Storage: Leftover Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the cheese may change slightly after freezing.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of milk or half-and-half.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

FAQ

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Brown the ground beef in a large pot, then add the vegetables and cook until softened. Add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese and milk) and simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir in the cheese and milk until melted and heated through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Velveeta provides that classic cheeseburger flavor and melty texture, you can substitute it with cheddar cheese, a cheddar blend, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick. Keep in mind that other cheeses might not melt as smoothly as Velveeta.

How can I make this soup healthier?

To make this soup healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, low-sodium beef broth, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables and use whole wheat buns for serving (optional).

Can I add potatoes to this soup?

Yes, you can add diced potatoes to this soup. Add them along with the carrots and celery, and make sure they are cooked through before adding the cheese.

What goes well with Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

This soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches. Top it with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like pickles, ketchup, mustard, and bacon bits.

How long does it take to cook on low versus high?

Cooking on low typically takes 6-8 hours, while cooking on high takes 3-4 hours. The low setting is ideal for a longer, more hands-off cooking experience, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The high setting is a good option when you’re short on time, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food – a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, satisfying soup. With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure cheesy, beefy bliss! Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below. What are your favorite cheeseburger toppings to add to this soup?

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