Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl: Easy Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Embark on a culinary journey where the irresistible flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger meet the comforting warmth of a creamy, hearty soup. This incredible Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of convenience and deliciousness, perfectly crafted for those cozy evenings when you crave something truly satisfying. With minimal effort and just three simple steps, you can transform everyday ingredients into a rich, flavorful concoction brimming with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese. Forget standing over the stove; let your crock pot do all the heavy lifting, filling your home with an aroma that promises pure comfort.

A bowl of Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup served with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, and bacon pieces, highlighting its rich, creamy texture and generous toppings.

There’s nothing quite like soup season to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, our cravings naturally turn towards nourishing, soul-warming meals. This is precisely when your slow cooker becomes your best friend, transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces with little to no fuss. Our Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup stands out as a phenomenal comfort food, meticulously designed to capture that beloved, nostalgic cheeseburger taste we all adore, but in a surprisingly creamy and satisfying soup form.

Imagine all your favorite elements of a classic cheeseburger—savory beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and even a hint of pickle tang—seamlessly blended into a single, delightful bowl. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hearty, filling meal that promises to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and it offers a fantastic way to utilize common ingredients you likely already have on hand. Spend just a few minutes assembling everything in the morning, and by evening, you’ll be treated to a luxurious meal that tastes as though it simmered all day long, thanks to the magic of slow cooking.

Two steaming bowls of slow cooker bacon cheeseburger soup ready to be served, sitting on a wooden tray beside the slow cooker itself, emphasizing convenience and deliciousness.

Why This Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is Your New Go-To

This recipe for Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together all your most cherished flavors into one undeniably satisfying dish. The foundation of savory ground beef, smoky bacon, and fragrant sautéed onion creates a robust, hearty base that is undeniably comforting. But what truly elevates this soup to a new level of indulgence are the creamy elements: tender potatoes (conveniently from O’Brien hash browns), rich half-and-half, tangy sour cream, and a generous amount of meltingly gooey cheddar cheese. These ingredients combine to create an unbelievably smooth and luxurious texture that makes this soup the epitome of comfort food.

And let’s not forget the secret weapon: those delightful little bites of chopped dill pickle. They introduce an unexpected yet crucial zing of flavor, cutting through the richness and brightening every spoonful. This burst of acidity is what truly ties all the classic cheeseburger components together, transforming a simple soup into an extraordinary culinary adventure. If you appreciate hearty, flavorful meals that are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this slow cooker recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s designed to impress with its complex taste while maintaining a straightforward preparation process.

A ladle stirring the rich, creamy Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup directly in the slow cooker, showcasing the blend of ingredients.

More Comforting Soup and Casserole Ideas

If the concept of this incredibly flavorful slow cooker soup excites your taste buds, you’ll be thrilled to know that it shares a comforting kinship with my Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole, complete with its own special sauce! That casserole is another fantastic, easy-to-make, and wonderfully hearty meal that your entire family will undoubtedly adore. It carries that same nostalgic, crowd-pleasing appeal that makes weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings truly special. Beyond that, I have a selection of other classic soup recipes that are perfect for warming you up throughout the colder months. Each one is designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss:

Broccoli Cheese Soup: A rich and creamy classic, packed with cheesy goodness and tender broccoli florets.
Tortellini Soup: A comforting Italian-inspired soup featuring tender tortellini in a savory broth.
Hamburger Macaroni Soup: A hearty, beefy soup reminiscent of a classic American goulash.
Easy 4 Ingredient Potato Soup: Simplicity at its best, proving that deliciousness doesn’t require a long ingredient list.
7 Can Chicken Taco Soup: A super quick and flavorful taco-inspired soup perfect for a busy day.

Essential Ingredients for Your Ultimate Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that make this soup so special. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:

A close-up image of a spoon lifting a generous portion of slow cooker bacon cheeseburger soup, showcasing the creamy texture and rich ingredients like ground beef and potatoes.

1 pound ground beef: The hearty foundation of our soup, providing that essential meaty cheeseburger flavor. Choose an 80/20 blend for richness, or leaner if preferred.
1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds a foundational aromatic sweetness and depth to the beef as it cooks.
1 cup shredded carrots: Contributes a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color, blending seamlessly into the soup.
1 cup diced celery: Provides a subtle earthy note and additional texture, completing the classic mirepoix base.
1 (28 ounce) package frozen O’Brien hashbrown potatoes: A brilliant shortcut! These cubed potatoes with peppers and onions melt into the soup, adding body and tender potato goodness without extra peeling or chopping.
1 quart beef broth: The liquid base that infuses the entire soup with savory, robust flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness.
½ teaspoon pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a touch of mild spice.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough to provide a subtle warmth and a hint of zing without making the soup overtly spicy.
1 (2.5 ounce package real bacon pieces) or 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Essential for that smoky, salty bacon cheeseburger flavor. Using real bacon pieces is a time-saver, but freshly cooked and crumbled bacon offers superior texture and taste.
1 cup half and half: The key to achieving that incredibly creamy, luxurious texture that defines this comfort soup.
½ cup sour cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the beef and cheese.
16 ounces (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese: The quintessential cheeseburger ingredient! Choose a good quality sharp or medium cheddar for the best flavor and melt. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-packaged.
1 cup chopped dill pickle slices: The surprising hero! These pickles provide the essential tangy, bright counterpoint that makes the “cheeseburger” flavor truly pop. Don’t skip them!

Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Batch of Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Get ready for an incredibly easy cooking experience! This slow cooker bacon cheeseburger soup comes together with minimal fuss, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without being tied to the kitchen. Just follow these simple steps:

Shredded carrots, chopped celery, and chopped onion are added to browned ground beef in a skillet, then transferred to a slow cooker, starting the soup base.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is mostly cooked through, drain off any excess fat. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor and preventing a greasy soup. Add the shredded carrots, chopped onion, and diced celery to the beef in the skillet. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This gentle sautéing mellows their flavors and releases their aromas. Once done, transfer the seasoned beef and softened veggies to your slow cooker.

Frozen hash browns, beef broth, and seasonings are added to the slow cooker containing browned beef and sautéed vegetables, preparing for slow cooking.

Step 2: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Seasonings, Then Slow Cook. To the slow cooker with the beef and vegetables, add the entire package of frozen O’Brien hash browns. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Stir in the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on the LOW setting for 4-6 hours. During this time, the potatoes will become wonderfully tender, and all the flavors will meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth.

Half and half is poured into the slow cooker, then gently stirred with a ladle, preparing the creamy base of the bacon cheeseburger soup.

Step 3: Stir in Creamy Elements and Cheese. Once the cooking time is complete and the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to transform your soup into a creamy delight. Add the half and half, sour cream, bacon pieces (or crumbled cooked bacon), and the shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Gently stir the mixture until the cheese has completely melted and all the creamy ingredients are well blended into the soup. The residual heat from the slow cooker will be enough to melt the cheese and warm the dairy components without curdling. Avoid over-stirring once the dairy is added to maintain the best texture. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

A beautifully garnished bowl of Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, topped generously with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, and crispy bacon pieces, ready for serving.

Serve and Garnish. Ladle the hot, creamy Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup into individual bowls. For an authentic cheeseburger experience, serve garnished generously with additional bacon bits, more shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped dill pickles. These toppings not only add visual appeal but also enhance the texture and flavor, providing that extra layer of “cheeseburger” goodness.

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Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

This easy cheesy Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is so simple to make! Only 3 steps to a comforting and creamy soup that’s full of hamburger, bacon, cheese, and potatoes, making it the perfect family-friendly meal.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 534kcal

Author: A H

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 28 ounce package O’Brien frozen hashbrown potatoes
1 quart beef broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 2.5 ounce package real bacon pieces or 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup half and half
½ cup sour cream
16 ounces (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup chopped dill pickle slices

Instructions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any accumulated fat. Add the shredded carrots, chopped onion, and diced celery to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
To the slow cooker, add the frozen O’Brien hash browns, beef broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything well to combine. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have fully melded.
Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the half and half, sour cream, bacon pieces (or cooked and crumbled bacon), and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese has completely melted and all ingredients are smoothly incorporated and blended into the creamy soup.
Serve the hot soup immediately, garnished generously with more bacon bits, extra shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped dill pickles for that authentic cheeseburger finish.

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Nutrition

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Expert Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few expert tips can elevate your Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup from good to absolutely outstanding:

Don’t Skip Browning the Beef: This initial step is vital for developing rich, deep flavors through the Maillard reaction. It also allows you to drain excess fat, resulting in a cleaner, less greasy soup.
Sautéing the Veggies is Key: Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery until softened and translucent brings out their natural sweetness and aromatic compounds, contributing significantly to the soup’s overall depth of flavor.
The Magic of Dill Pickles: These aren’t just a garnish! Chopped dill pickles stirred into the soup provide a crucial tangy, acidic counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat, making every bite more vibrant and truly completing the “cheeseburger” experience.
Freshly Shredded Cheese for the Win: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can make it melt less smoothly. For the creamiest soup, shred your own cheddar cheese from a block.
Don’t Overcook After Adding Dairy: Once the half-and-half, sour cream, and cheese are added, simply stir until melted and blended. Extended cooking at high temperatures after adding dairy can sometimes cause it to curdle, altering the soup’s smooth texture.
Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the tender potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before adding the dairy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more beef broth or half-and-half until it reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Broth brands vary in sodium content, so a final check ensures perfect seasoning.

Delicious Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is how adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your family’s preferences:

Spice It Up: For those who love a kick, add a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco or Cholula) along with the red pepper flakes, or incorporate some diced jalapeños (fresh or canned) during the last hour of cooking.
Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like diced bell peppers (red or green), frozen corn, or even a handful of spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Healthier Twist: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Opt for low-fat half-and-half or milk, and light sour cream to reduce fat content. You can also reduce the amount of cheese if desired.
Smoky Flavor Boost: A pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky notes from the bacon, adding another layer of savory depth.
Topping Bar Fun: Set up a “topping bar” with various garnishes like crispy fried onions, crushed potato chips, sliced green onions, extra pickles, or even a drizzle of special sauce (like a Big Mac sauce) for a fun, interactive meal.
Make it a Meal: Serve this hearty soup with some crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cheeseburger Soup

This rich and creamy soup is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious, creamy broth. Garlic bread or cheese bread would also be excellent choices.
Side Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread can be a comforting addition, especially on a chilly day.
Loaded Baked Potatoes (on the side!): For an extra indulgent meal, serve small loaded baked potato halves as a side, complementing the flavors within the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the many advantages of this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is how wonderfully it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes remarkably well! Portion cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Gently reheat thawed or refrigerated soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency, as it can thicken in the fridge. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this delicious soup:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative for a lighter version. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly and season well, as poultry can be milder in flavor.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop? Yes, you can! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables in a large pot or Dutch oven, add the hash browns, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, covered, for about 20-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Then proceed with adding the dairy and cheese.
Why include pickles in the soup? The dill pickles are crucial for that authentic “cheeseburger” flavor! Their tangy, slightly sour crunch provides a necessary acidic balance to the rich, creamy soup, preventing it from tasting too heavy.
Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time? Yes, that’s a great strategy for busy days! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Cook and crumble your bacon as well. Then, on cooking day, simply combine everything in the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe.
What kind of potatoes should I use if I don’t have O’Brien hash browns? You can use 28 ounces of diced regular frozen hash browns or about 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced. You might want to add a small diced bell pepper with the onion and celery to mimic the O’Brien mix.

This easy cheesy Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is so simple to make! Only 3 steps to a comforting and creamy soup that’s full of hamburger, bacon, cheese, and potatoes, presented in a mouth-watering hero shot.

Wrap Up Your Week with This Unforgettable Slow Cooker Creation!

In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with the magic of slow cooking, can yield an extraordinary meal. It’s the perfect solution for satisfying those deep comfort food cravings, offering the familiar, delightful taste of a bacon cheeseburger in a warm, creamy, and incredibly easy-to-make soup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight, looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual gathering, or simply seeking solace in a bowl on a chilly day, this soup delivers on all fronts.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to be amazed by the rich flavors and effortless preparation of this fantastic recipe. Once you try this Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with the toppings and variations to truly make it your own. Happy cooking!