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 served this soup to my family on a cold winter evening, and it quickly became a weekly favorite due to its comforting flavors and simple preparation.
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
- 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 2 3 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 6 8 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 soup is always a hit when my family gathers around the table, bringing warmth and smiles to everyone.
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), Pork (bacon). If unsure of ingredients, always verify product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540, Total Fat: 36 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 29 g per serving
Save This cheeseburger soup is a comforting and easy meal option that your family will cherish on cold days.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative without greatly affecting the overall flavor.
- → How do I make the soup thicker?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork before adding cream and cheese to create a thicker texture.
- → What is the best way to cook the bacon for topping?
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then drain on paper towels, chop, and sprinkle over the soup.
- → Can this be prepared without a slow cooker?
While a crockpot is recommended, you may simmer the ingredients gently on the stove, ensuring potatoes become tender and flavors meld.
- → Are there gluten-free options in this dish?
Yes, ensure the cheddar cheese soup and beef broth are labeled gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.