Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a rich, comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the creamy, hearty goodness of a soup. Perfect for cold nights, it’s a breeze to make in the slow cooker!

Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (you can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups (about 720ml) chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
• 4 cups (about 600g) potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon gold or russet work well)
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a slight tang)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Crispy bacon, chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, pickles, or croutons

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   In the slow cooker, combine the browned ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and diced potatoes. Stir in the dried thyme and Dijon mustard (if using).
3. Cook the Soup:
   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Make it Creamy:
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Once combined, add the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella if using) and stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with any optional toppings like crispy bacon, extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or even a few pickle slices for a little tang!
6. Enjoy!
   Serve this cheesy, comforting soup with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad.

Tips & Variations:

• Add Veggies: You can add additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and add them in with the potatoes.
• Make it Spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few dashes of hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Slow Cooker Variations: For an even quicker version, you can sauté the onion and garlic with the beef, but if you’re in a rush, you can skip that step and just add everything directly to the slow cooker.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re using any pre-made ingredients like broth or mustard, be sure to check labels for hidden gluten.

This creamy cheeseburger soup is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence, with all the cheesy goodness you love from a cheeseburger—no bun required!