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.
This soup quickly became a family favorite after I tried it on a chilly evening. It’s comforting while still feeling special without much effort.
Ingredients
- Bacon strips: 4 strips
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound (450 g)
- Yellow onion: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Russet potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and diced (about 1-inch pieces)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Beef broth: 4 cups (950 ml)
- Cheddar cheese soup: 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Freshly grated cheddar cheese: 8 ounces (225 g), plus more for serving
- Pickle slices (optional):
- Diced tomatoes (optional):
Instructions
- Cook bacon:
- 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.
- Cook ground beef and aromatics:
- 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 2–3 minutes more until onion softens. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Combine in crockpot:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, and cheddar cheese soup. Stir well to combine.
- Cook soup:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Add cream and cheese:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar, pickle slices, and/or diced tomatoes as desired. Serve hot.
Save This dish brings my family together on cold nights, always warming our hearts and stomachs with every spoonful.
Notes
For a gluten-free soup, ensure the cheddar cheese soup and broth are labeled gluten-free. Serve with toasted buns or croutons for a true cheeseburger feel.
Required Tools
Large skillet, slotted spoon, 6-quart crockpot (slow cooker), cutting board and knife, cheese grater, ladle.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheddar cheese, cream, cheese soup), possible gluten (canned soup, broth—check labels), and pork (bacon). Verify product labels to ensure safety for allergens.
Save This comforting soup is a perfect meal for any busy day, offering rich flavors with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and maintains the dish's hearty texture.
- → How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before stirring in the cream and cheese for added creaminess and thickness.
- → What toppings complement this soup best?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra grated cheddar, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes provide classic, flavorful finishes.
- → Is it possible to prepare this without a crockpot?
Yes, simmer the mixture gently on the stove for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
- → How do I ensure this dish is gluten-free?
Check labels on cheese soup and beef broth to confirm gluten-free status before using.
- → Can I freeze leftovers for later use?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers and thaw thoroughly before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.