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 on chilly evenings. It's straightforward to prepare and fills the house with incredible aromas.
Ingredients
- Bacon strips: 4 strips
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound (450 g)
- Yellow onion: 1, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, 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 Every time we serve this soup, the whole family gathers around the table with smiles and eager bowls. It's a true comfort meal that brings us together.
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
Calories: 540 per serving, Total Fat: 36 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 29 g
Save This soup is the perfect cozy meal to warm you up on any night. Enjoy preparing and sharing it!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining rich flavor.
- → How do I make the soup thicker?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the cream and cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Check labels on cheddar cheese soup and beef broth to ensure they are gluten-free for safe preparation.
- → Can I prepare this without a crockpot?
While ideal for slow cooking, it can be adapted for stovetop by simmering gently until potatoes are tender.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Chopped crispy bacon, extra cheddar cheese, pickle slices, and diced tomatoes provide classic finishing touches.