Description
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Burger-Flavored Soup combines the hearty taste of browned ground beef with tender potatoes, sweet corn, and a creamy blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Enhanced with savory Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and a hint of smoked paprika, this comforting soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal. Finished with a dollop of sour cream and optional garnishes like green onions and crispy bacon bits, it’s a delicious, family-friendly dinner that simmers effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef)
Soup Base
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Crispy bacon bits (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, diced potatoes, frozen corn, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream just before serving to add a creamy texture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and crispy bacon bits if desired for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese to create a creamier consistency.
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- You can prepare the beef mixture the night before and refrigerate; just add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients when ready to cook.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference or try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
