Save 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 soup quickly became a favorite in my household. Every time I make it, my family asks for seconds and loves the rich, comforting taste.
Ingredients
- Bacon strips: 4 strips
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound (450 g)
- Yellow onion: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, 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 can (10.5-ounce / 300 g)
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Freshly grated cheddar cheese: 8 ounces (225 g), plus more for serving
- Pickle slices (optional): as desired
- Diced tomatoes (optional): as desired
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 It This recipe reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathered around to enjoy the hearty flavors and warmth of home-cooked food.
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
Save It This soup is a go-to comfort food that’s simple to make and sure to please the whole family.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I substitute turkey for the beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative, maintaining the dish's hearty texture and flavor.
- → How do I make the soup thicker?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding cream and cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free cheddar cheese soup and beef broth—always check labels.
- → What toppings complement this dish best?
Classic toppings such as pickle slices, diced tomatoes, extra cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon enhance the flavors.
- → Can this be prepared without a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook it on the stove with gentle simmering, but a slow cooker enhances the depth of flavors.