Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

This comforting Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, hearty, and nourishing bowl. It’s rich, protein-packed, and full of wholesome vegetables, making it a clean, satisfying meal perfect for busy days or chilly evenings. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s a reliable recipe for weeknights and meal prep alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is incredibly flavorful while remaining nutritious and balanced. It slow-cooks to perfection, blending tender vegetables with seasoned ground beef for a creamy, cheeseburger-inspired finish. It’s family-friendly, customizable with fun toppings, and stores beautifully for make-ahead meals. The ingredients are simple, the method is easy, and the results are consistently delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tsp avocado oil or olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 lbs grass-fed ground beef
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
1 Tbsp dry mustard
1 jar (15 oz) organic tomato sauce
6 cups beef bone broth
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
1–2 large red or orange bell peppers, seeded and diced
2 cups chopped mushrooms (button or crimini)
Sea salt, to taste (about 1/2 tsp)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about 1/2 tsp)

Garnish options:
1 cup shredded cheese
Chopped pickles
Diced or sliced onions
Fresh tomato slices

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spatula until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dry mustard.
4. Drain any excess grease, then transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
5. Add the tomato sauce, beef bone broth, carrot, celery, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
6. Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours. Cooking on LOW develops deeper flavor.
7. Once cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, onions, tomatoes, and pickles if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total time: Approximately 6–8 hours (depending on the setting)

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
• Add diced potatoes or cauliflower florets for extra heartiness.
• Stir in cooked brown rice or quinoa just before serving for added texture.
• For a creamy finish, swirl in a splash of coconut milk or a handful of shredded cheese at the end of cooking.
• Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicier twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this soup thicker?

Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes after cooking, or stir in a small amount of cheese at the end.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes. Simmer everything together on low for about 45–60 minutes after browning the beef.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes. Blend 2 cups of fresh tomatoes for a similar result.

Can I add pasta?

You can, but cook pasta separately and stir it in before serving to prevent mushiness.

What cheese works best for topping?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a clean shredded cheese blend works well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Zucchini, spinach, or peas make great additions.

Can I cook this overnight?

Yes, use the LOW setting and let it cook 6–8 hours, then switch to warm.

How do I keep the vegetables from getting too soft?

Cut them into larger chunks and cook on LOW instead of HIGH.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup is a wholesome, comforting meal that brings classic flavors into a nutritious, veggie-packed dish. With simple ingredients, long-simmered depth, and customizable toppings, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or stocking your freezer, this soup delivers warm, satisfying flavor every time.

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