Save A cozy, hearty soup that tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger—loaded with savory beef, melty cheddar, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon. The crockpot makes this easy and perfect for busy weeknights. Top with pickles or tomatoes for a classic cheeseburger finish.
I first made this soup on a chilly evening and it quickly became a family favorite. The flavors really remind me of a classic cheeseburger, but in a warm bowl.
Ingredients
- 4 bacon strips: cooked and chopped for topping
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef: for the base
- 1 yellow onion, diced: adds savory flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: aromatic
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-inch pieces): hearty texture
- ½ teaspoon salt: seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: seasoning
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth: liquid base
- 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can cheddar cheese soup: cheesy richness
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream: creamy texture
- 8 ounces (225 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese, plus more for serving: cheesy topping
- Pickle slices (optional): classic cheeseburger garnish
- Diced tomatoes (optional): fresh topping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan. Once cool, chop bacon and set aside for topping.
- Step 2:
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it browns, about 7 minutes. Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook 23 minutes more until onion softens. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, and cheddar cheese soup. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 68 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5:
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Step 6:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar, pickle slices, and/or diced tomatoes as desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe always brings the family together, especially on cold evenings when we crave comfort food.
Notes
Serve with toasted buns or croutons for a true cheeseburger feel.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheddar cheese, cream, cheese soup), Possible Gluten (canned soup, broth—check labels), Pork (bacon). Always verify product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540, Total Fat: 36 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 29 g per serving.
Save This soup is sure to become a weeknight staple with its rich flavor and simple preparation.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork before adding cream and cheese to maintain a creamy but not overly thick texture.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while keeping the flavor balanced.
- → How long should the soup cook in the crockpot?
Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for about 4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- → What toppings work best for this dish?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra grated cheddar, pickle slices, or diced tomatoes add great texture and classic flavors.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Check labels on the cheddar cheese soup and beef broth to ensure they are gluten-free if needed.