Creamy Burger Soup

Creamy Burger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, hearty bowl. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. With ground beef, melty Velveeta cheese, and tender vegetables in a rich broth, this soup offers both flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef and Velveeta gives this soup an irresistible cheeseburger taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or toppings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Creamy Burger Soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together beautifully.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef evenly before adding it to the soup.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the roux smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

A hearty slow cooker soup that tastes like your favorite cheeseburger, featuring ground beef, melty cheese, and tender vegetables in a rich, creamy broth.

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (16 oz) package velveeta, cubed
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 4 small potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• Turkey Turkey Bacon bits for topping
• Cheddar cheese, grated for topping

How to Make Creamy Burger Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain excess fat before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

Wipe the skillet clean. Melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour. Cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in milk while seasoning with salt and pepper. Set aside in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add cooked beef along with onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes into the slow cooker. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and season with dried basil and parsley.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3–4 hours until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Cheese Mixture

Stir in the refrigerated roux mixture along with Velveeta cubes. Cook for an additional 30 minutes until cheese melts thoroughly and soup thickens nicely.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Top each bowl with grated cheddar cheese and Turkey Turkey Bacon bits before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Burger Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Burger Soup

Creamy Burger Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here’s how you can serve this comforting meal to elevate your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh flavor boost.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy twist that complements the richness of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve alongside warm garlic bread for dipping, enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Crusty Baguette – A sliced baguette can be perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad – The crispiness of romaine and the tangy dressing pair well with the soup’s richness.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.

Offer Cheese Toppings

• Grated Cheddar Cheese – Besides the Velveeta, freshly grated cheddar adds extra flavor and texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – For a nutty flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top just before serving.

How to Perfect Creamy Burger Soup

To ensure your Creamy Burger Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Lean Ground Beef – Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still maintaining great flavor.
• Chop Vegetables Finely – Finely chop your vegetables so they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the soup.
• Adjust Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer without the lid or add more flour to your roux.
• Taste as You Go – Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Let it Sit – Allowing your soup to rest after cooking helps flavors meld together for a richer taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Burger Soup

Creamy Burger Soup pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and fluffy breadsticks infused with garlic make for perfect dipping companions.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Potato Wedges – Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs add an extra layer of comfort food.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that balances the savory soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and ground meat create a satisfying pairing.
6. Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts bring in earthy flavors that enhance the dish’s overall profile.
7. Macaroni Salad – A chilled macaroni salad adds texture and is perfect for a complete meal.
8. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a light option that’s easy to enjoy alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing creamy burger soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Skipping proper seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Bold texture issues: Not chopping vegetables uniformly can result in uneven cooking. Aim for similar sizes for even tenderness.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the potatoes can make them mushy. Check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high heat.
• Bold slow cooker use: Opening the lid too often lets heat escape, slowing down cooking. Keep the lid on until it’s time to check for doneness.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using different types of cheese may alter the flavor drastically. Stick with Velveeta for the best creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy burger soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Burger Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Burger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamy burger soup:

What is Creamy Burger Soup?

Creamy burger soup is a hearty dish that combines ground beef, cheese, and vegetables in a rich broth, mimicking the flavors of a cheeseburger.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, but using Velveeta ensures a creamy texture. Other cheeses may not melt as smoothly.

How do I customize my Creamy Burger Soup?

You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more flavor or swap beef for turkey for a lighter version.

What should I serve with Creamy Burger Soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the soup.

Final Thoughts

Creamy burger soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this delicious recipe a try—perfect for family dinners or gatherings!