This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon is a bowl of pure comfort. Creamy potatoes, hearty beef, and the richness of Velveeta and cream cheese come together with the smoky crunch of bacon. It’s a meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekends, this soup is simple to prepare in the crockpot. Let the rich flavors simmer all day, and enjoy a no-fuss dinner that feels indulgent yet effortless. Pair it with a crusty slice of bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked beef, diced potatoes, diced onion, and chicken broth into a crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Velveeta cheese cubes and cream cheese to the crockpot. Stir until melted and well incorporated.
- Before serving, sprinkle crispy bacon over the soup.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and the Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon is the ultimate dish for bringing coziness to your table. This recipe combines all the flavors you love in a classic cheeseburger—savory beef, creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and hearty potatoes—into a rich and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting a casual family gathering, or simply craving something indulgent, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup apart is its balance of flavor, texture, and convenience. Unlike some soups that require constant attention on the stovetop, this dish takes full advantage of the crockpot. By allowing the ingredients to slow-cook together, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a depth and richness that’s hard to beat. Additionally, the inclusion of crispy bacon not only adds a smoky note but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup.
The versatility of this recipe is another standout feature. While it’s naturally hearty and satisfying on its own, you can easily customize it to fit your preferences. Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. It’s also a fantastic option for gluten-free diets when paired with the right sides or garnishes.
A Perfect Comfort Food for Any Season
Soup is often associated with cold weather, but this cheeseburger-inspired creation is versatile enough to enjoy year-round. In the winter, it serves as a hearty main dish that warms you from the inside out. During the summer months, it’s a fun and unexpected addition to a barbecue spread, offering the same cheeseburger flavor in a new format.
For families, this soup is an excellent way to serve up a satisfying meal that’s both kid-friendly and appealing to adults. The creamy texture and cheeseburger-inspired flavors make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up—a win for busy households.
The Magic of Slow Cooking
The crockpot plays a starring role in this recipe, and for good reason. Slow cooking allows each ingredient to shine while ensuring the dish remains hassle-free. The ground beef becomes tender, the potatoes cook to perfection, and the cheese melts into a velvety base that ties everything together. What’s more, the process of slow cooking helps develop layers of flavor that can’t be replicated with faster methods.
Another advantage of using a crockpot is the convenience it offers. You can prepare the ingredients in the morning, set the crockpot, and go about your day knowing that a delicious meal will be ready by dinnertime. This makes it an ideal choice for busy professionals, parents, or anyone who loves the idea of “set it and forget it” cooking.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
While this soup is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your meal. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment, ideal for dipping into the creamy broth. For a lighter option, consider serving the soup alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a toppings bar so guests can customize their bowls. Offer options like extra shredded cheese, fresh parsley, chopped chives, or even crumbled tortilla chips for added texture. For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños can provide a spicy kick.
Nutritional Insights
While this soup is undeniably indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The inclusion of potatoes provides a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. Ground beef adds protein to keep you full and satisfied, while the cheese contributes calcium for strong bones. To boost the nutritional profile even further, consider adding extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. These additions can enhance the flavor while increasing the soup’s vitamin and mineral content.
For those watching their calorie intake, you can make a few adjustments without sacrificing flavor. Opt for lean ground beef, use reduced-fat cheese, and substitute some of the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt. These small changes can lighten the dish while maintaining its creamy and satisfying nature.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best in this recipe, as they hold their shape well during cooking and contribute a creamy texture to the soup.
- Brown the Beef First: While it’s tempting to skip this step, browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor and prevents excess grease from diluting the soup.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The combination of Velveeta and cream cheese creates the soup’s signature creaminess. For an extra cheesy kick, stir in some shredded cheddar at the end.
- Cook Low and Slow: While it’s possible to cook this soup on high, the low setting allows the flavors to develop more fully. If you have the time, opt for the longer cooking time.
- Crisp the Bacon Fresh: Add the crumbled bacon just before serving to ensure it retains its crisp texture. Pre-cooked bacon can become soggy if added too early.
A Crowd-Pleaser That’s Easy to Scale
One of the best things about this soup is its scalability. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, it’s easy to adjust the quantities to suit your needs. For larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients and use a larger crockpot. The leftovers are just as delicious and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
Reheating is simple—just warm the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for meal prepping or busy weeks.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your table. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and smoky bacon make it a standout dish that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold day, a creative twist on a classic cheeseburger, or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this soup checks all the boxes.
Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and undeniably delicious, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet touch. So dust off your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure bliss. Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you!