Pin It 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 recipe became an instant family favorite on busy weeknights when I wanted something delicious with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 bacon strips: Cooked and chopped for topping
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef: Main protein
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds flavor depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic seasoning
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Provides heartiness
- ½ teaspoon salt: For seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth: Soup base
- 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can cheddar cheese soup: Adds cheesy richness
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream: Makes the soup creamy
- 8 ounces (225 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, plus extra for serving
- Pickle slices (optional): Topping
- Diced tomatoes (optional): Topping
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 Beef Mixture:
- 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 Ingredients:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, and cheddar cheese soup. Stir well to combine.
- Cooking:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Add Dairy:
- 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.
Pin It Gathering around this soup always brings warmth and smiles to our family dinners.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. Serve with toasted buns or croutons for a true cheeseburger feel.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, possible gluten (check soup and broth labels), and pork from bacon. Verify product labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 540 calories, 36 g total fat, 23 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein.
Pin It This soup is perfect for busy nights and comforts the whole family with every spoonful.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor.
- → How long should the soup cook in the crockpot?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
- → What toppings work well with this dish?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes enhance texture and flavor.
- → How can I thicken the soup?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding cream and cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Check labels on cheddar cheese soup and broth to ensure they are gluten-free for this to be safe.