Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Introduction
This Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. Packed with tender potatoes, ground beef, and creamy cheese, it’s perfect for chilly days when you want something satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small white or yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (16 ounces) Velveeta processed cheese, cubed OR 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, and dried parsley into a large crock pot. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Step 2: About 45 minutes before serving, cook and crumble the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess grease, then add the cooked beef to the crock pot.
- Step 3: Carefully wipe out the hot skillet with a paper towel, then add the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook until golden brown and bubbly, about 1 minute.
- Step 4: Slowly whisk in the milk, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture into the crock pot and stir everything together.
- Step 5: Add the cubed Velveeta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese to the crock pot and stir again. Cover and cook for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely.
- Step 6: Serve the soup warm and enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors.
Tips & Variations
- For a thicker soup, use less milk or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.
- Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the soup smooth and creamy. You may need to add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this soup without a crock pot?
Yes, you can prepare this soup on the stovetop by simmering the vegetables in broth until tender, then following the rest of the steps. Just be sure to cook over low heat and stir often to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup?
Freezing is not recommended because the potatoes and dairy-based cheese sauce can separate and change texture when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this soup fresh or refrigerated within a few days.
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Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender potatoes, mixed vegetables, and savory ground beef simmered in a rich, cheesy broth. Made easy in a slow cooker, it’s perfect for a cozy meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small white or yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Liquids and Broth
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk (2%)
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 package (16 ounces) Velveeta processed cheese, cubed OR 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Place the peeled and diced potatoes, chopped onions, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried basil, and dried parsley into the crock pot. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the vegetables. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Cook Ground Beef: About 45 minutes before serving, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease thoroughly. Transfer the cooked beef into the crock pot with the vegetables.
- Make the Roux and Sauce: Carefully wipe out the hot skillet with a paper towel to remove excess grease. Add the butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until golden brown and bubbly, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, and black pepper, stirring constantly until sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Pour the milk mixture into the crock pot with the vegetables and beef. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Add the cubed Velveeta or shredded cheddar cheese into the crock pot. Stir again to distribute the cheese evenly. Cover with the lid and cook for another 20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is hot throughout.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the soup is hot, serve warm and enjoy your comforting crock pot cheeseburger soup.
Notes
- You can substitute Velveeta with cheddar cheese or a cheese blend for different flavors.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the savory flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (slow cooker) + 15 minutes (stovetop prep)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crock Pot, Cheeseburger Soup, Slow Cooker Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Soup Recipe
