01 -
Grab a large skillet and get it nice and hot over medium-high heat. Toss in your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook it until it's beautifully browned all over, no pink bits left! This is where all that amazing flavor starts, honestly. Drain off any excess fat – I usually use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a paper towel-lined plate, then wipe out the skillet. Trust me, skipping this step means a greasy soup, and nobody wants that. I learned that the hard way, with a shimmering, oily mess.
02 -
In the same skillet (no need to clean it, embrace the fond!), add a splash of olive oil if needed, then toss in your diced onion. Sauté until it's softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Now, add your minced garlic and cook for just another minute until you can really smell it – don't let it burn, that's a sad, bitter flavor. Transfer this aromatic goodness, along with your browned ground beef, into your trusty 6-quart slow cooker. This step builds so much flavor for the Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup, don't skimp on it!
03 -
Into the slow cooker with the beef and aromatics, add your diced potatoes, beef broth, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine it all. Make sure those potatoes are submerged in the broth so they cook evenly. This is where the magic starts to happen; you just set it and forget it! Honestly, it’s the best feeling knowing dinner is bubbling away while you go about your day. I love seeing all those vibrant colors before it starts melding together.
04 -
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You're looking for those potatoes to be super tender, easily mashed with a fork. Give it a stir occasionally if you're around, but it’s fine if you don’t. This is the part where the whole house starts to smell absolutely divine – that savory, beefy aroma just fills the air. I sometimes sneak a little potato out just to check, oops!
05 -
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to make this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup truly creamy. Add the block of cream cheese and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir everything really well until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated, leaving no lumps. This might take a few minutes of patient stirring. The soup will transform into this rich, velvety texture. Don't rush this part; it's crucial for that smooth, luxurious finish.
06 -
Finally, stir in your freshly shredded cheddar cheese until it's completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time – maybe a little more salt, a dash of pepper? Ladle the hot, cheesy Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup into bowls. It should be thick, rich, and utterly comforting. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar, some crispy bacon bits, or a handful of fresh green onions. Honestly, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!