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 for its comforting flavors and simple prep. I enjoy making it on weekends so the house smells like a diner all day.
Ingredients
- Meats: 4 bacon strips, 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 yellow onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 3 medium russet potatoes peeled and diced (about 1-inch pieces)
- Seasonings: ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Liquids: 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
- Dairy & Cheese: 1 (10.5-ounce / 300 g) can cheddar cheese soup, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, 8 ounces (225 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese plus more for serving
- Toppings (Optional): Pickle slices, Diced tomatoes
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.
Pin it This recipe creates wonderful family moments as everyone loves gathering for bowls of this warm, cheesy soup especially on cold nights.
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). Always verify product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 540, Total Fat 36 g, Carbohydrates 23 g, Protein 29 g
Pin it This soup is the perfect blend of comfort and ease, ideal for any season. Enjoy creating lasting memories with every bowl served.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative while maintaining the dish's texture.
- → How can I make the soup thicker?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork before adding cream and cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Ensure that the cheddar cheese soup and beef broth are labeled gluten-free to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → What toppings complement this soup best?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra grated cheddar, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes add classic flavor finishes.
- → Can this dish be prepared quickly without a slow cooker?
The slow cooking process enhances tenderness and flavor, but it can be adapted for stove-top cooking with adjusted timing.