What Makes Crockpot Cheeseburger & Hamburger Soup So Special
There’s something truly magical about a recipe that wraps you in a warm, savory hug the moment you walk through the door. This Crockpot Cheeseburger & Hamburger Soup does just that. It’s the rich, comforting aroma of sizzling beef and onions mingling with the creamy, cheesy broth that fills your kitchen, promising a meal that feels like home on a spoon.
It reminds me of the hearty meals my grandmother would make, where every bite told a story of love and nourishment. I often get asked, “Is it better to brown the hamburger first for soup?” and the answer is a resounding yes—it builds a foundation of flavor that simply can’t be skipped. Let’s gather around the table and make some new memories, shall we?
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for Crockpot Cheeseburger & Hamburger Soup
This easy cheeseburger soup is a true slow cooker champion. Prep time is a quick 15 minutes of chopping and browning. Then, your trusty crockpot does the heavy lifting for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for a busy day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease. This step is the secret to a non-greasy, flavorful soup!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one more minute until fragrant. That beautiful garlicky scent is the signal that you’re building a wonderful flavor base.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the beef and onion mixture to your 6-quart slow cooker. This is where the magic of your crockpot hamburger soup begins.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced potatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are perfectly tender.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and sour cream until smooth. This will ensure your creamy cheeseburger soup has a luxuriously smooth texture without any curdling.
Step 7: Add Cheese & Cream
Stir the milk mixture and shredded cheddar cheese into the soup. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on HIGH, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is irresistibly creamy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese for that classic cheeseburger finish.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Every family has their own twist, and this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few of my favorite ways to make it your own.
- Flavor Swap: Try smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor that reminds me of a classic backyard barbecue.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, use ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Prep Fix: To keep potatoes from getting mushy, dice them into large, uniform chunks so they hold their shape during the long cook time.
- Storage Tip: This soup stores beautifully! Let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Healthier Alternatives for Crockpot Cheeseburger & Hamburger Soup
I often hear from readers asking, “Can I make this hamburger soup a bit healthier?” Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic canvas for nutritious swaps. Use lean ground beef or even ground chicken to reduce fat.
You can swap the whole milk for 2% and use reduced-fat cheddar cheese—it still melts beautifully. For an extra veggie boost, stir in a handful of spinach or some diced carrots with the potatoes. It’s all about creating a meal that loves you back.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburger & Hamburger Soup
This soup is a hearty meal all on its own, but I love serving it with a warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping into that creamy broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
In our house, it’s always served with a stack of saltine crackers on the side—just like my dad used to do. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening, gathered around the table with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to thicken hamburger soup?
This creamy cheeseburger soup is naturally thickened by the potatoes and the cheese. If you prefer an even thicker consistency, you can make a quick slurry. Whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can you make cheeseburger soup in an Instant Pot?
You certainly can! Use the sauté function to brown the beef and onions. Then add everything except the dairy. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Quick release, then stir in the milk, sour cream, and cheese using the sauté function on low until melted and creamy.
How do you keep potatoes from getting mushy in soup?
The key is to cut your potatoes into large, hearty chunks—about 1-inch dice. This ensures they hold their shape during the long, slow cook. Avoid overcooking by checking for tenderness right at the end of the recommended time.
What can I use instead of Velveeta in cheeseburger soup?
I prefer the flavor of real shredded cheddar cheese, as in this recipe. For a super smooth melt similar to Velveeta, a great alternative is American cheese or a few slices of provolone. They’ll give you that creamy, velvety texture we all love.
Is it better to brown the hamburger first for soup?
Yes, browning the meat first is my number one tip! It’s essential for developing deep, rich flavor and for rendering out excess fat. This crucial step ensures your soup isn’t greasy and has that wonderful savory foundation.
How long does cheeseburger soup last in the refrigerator?
Once cooled, store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for 3 to 4 days. The flavors often meld and become even more delicious the next day!
Can you freeze hamburger soup with potatoes and dairy?
I don’t recommend freezing this particular soup. Soups with dairy and potatoes can separate and become grainy when thawed. The potatoes may also turn mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
