If you are craving the rich, comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger but want something warm and cozy to enjoy by the spoonful, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together juicy ground beef, melty cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, tender potatoes, and the perfect balance of savory seasonings all simmered gently in a slow cooker. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with friends, this soup delivers a delightful burger-inspired flavor in a creamy, cheesy bowl that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to making this soup truly shine. Each component plays a role in creating its delicious flavor, creamy texture, or hearty bite that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base essential for that authentic burger flavor.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef and garlic.
- Garlic: Brings warmth and aromatic complexity to every spoonful.
- Beef broth: Forms the savory soup base, enhancing all the other flavors.
- Diced potatoes: Offer hearty texture and soak up the delicious broth.
- Frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Cheddar and mozzarella cheese: The dynamic duo responsible for the smooth, cheesy richness that coats the soup.
- Sour cream: Imbues the soup with creamy tanginess just before serving.
- Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard: Together, these condiments deliver that unmistakable burger-inspired flavor punch.
- Smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a subtle smoky undertone for extra depth.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the beef perfectly, developing incredible flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Green onions and crispy bacon bits (optional): Perfect garnishes that add freshness and crunch.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened to sweet perfection. This step builds the foundation of deep, savory flavor before moving to the slow cooker. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the soup hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the beef broth, diced potatoes, frozen corn, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to meld these delicious ingredients together.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. You want the potatoes tender and all the flavors harmonized beautifully. The slow cooking gently breaks down the ingredients, allowing them to soak up those irresistible burger-inspired tastes.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This step transforms the soup into a creamy, cheesy delight as the cheeses melt and become fully incorporated, giving it that signature gooey, melty texture every cheeseburger lover craves.
Step 5: Finish with Sour Cream and Season
Just before you ladle the soup into bowls, stir in the sour cream for a velvety richness that balances the savory beef and cheese perfectly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This final touch elevates the soup to pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Around here, garnishes are the fun finishing touches that bring sparkle to the dish. Chopped green onions add a fresh, slightly sharp bite, while crispy bacon bits introduce irresistible crunch and smoky goodness. Feel free to sprinkle as much or as little as you want—each bite gets even better!
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a meal on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls makes it perfect for soaking up every last drop. A light green salad or steamed veggies add freshness and balance to the meal, making it satisfying without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a playful twist or garnish each bowl with a tiny dill pickle spear for an extra burger-inspired touch. You could also layer crispy onion strings on top to mimic those favorite burger toppings. Presentation makes eating this Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe even more exciting and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day soup even more flavorful. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling as this can cause the cheese and sour cream to separate, keeping your soup silky and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well with this recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce or seasonings to boost that burger essence.
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
No worries! You can use all cheddar or substitute with another melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but the soup will still be deliciously cheesy.
Is it possible to make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a pot, then add the other ingredients and simmer covered for about 40 minutes until potatoes are tender. Add cheeses and sour cream last, just like in the slow cooker method.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You might also want to ramp up the seasonings for a heartier flavor.
What toppings pair best with this soup?
Besides green onions and bacon bits, try shredded lettuce, diced pickles, or even a dollop of extra sour cream. These toppings add texture and fresh contrast, enhancing the cheeseburger-inspired experience.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves the comforting, cheesy goodness of burgers in a cozy, spoonable form. It’s incredibly easy, and every step contributes to that incredible final flavor you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Give it a try, and trust me—this soup will quickly become one of your go-to favorites when you want something warm, hearty, and downright delicious.
Print
Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef, diced potatoes, corn, and a flavorful cheese blend to deliver all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger in a warm, easy-to-make soup. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker recipe requires minimal prep and yields a rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup frozen corn
Liquids and Sauces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef)
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Crispy bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, frozen corn, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt thoroughly into the soup.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream just before serving to add creaminess and adjust salt and pepper to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and crispy bacon bits if desired, then serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before adding the cheese.
- Make sure to brown the beef well to enhance the soup’s flavor.
- The smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky depth.
- Use low-fat sour cream to reduce fat content if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce during cooking.
