Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup Recipe with Sesame Seed Bun Croutons: A Comfort Food Favorite

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  If you're craving all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger, but want something a little cozier, this Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Sesame Seed Bun Croutons is the answer.  

This creamy, hearty soup is packed with savory beef, melted cheeses, and all your favorite burger toppings, all in one bowl!  Plus, the homemade sesame seed bun croutons add that perfect finishing touch, making each bite feel like a bite into a classic cheeseburger.  

Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for a weeknight meal, this crockpot recipe is a simple and delicious way to bring everyone to the table!  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Easy to Make:  Set it and forget it!  The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this a fuss-free recipe perfect for busy days.  
• Family-Friendly:  Who doesn't love a cheeseburger?  This soup is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.  
• Perfect for Meal Prep:  Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup makes great leftovers that taste even better the next day.  
• Customizable:  Add your favorite toppings like pickles, bacon bits, or even a dollop of ketchup for a true cheeseburger experience.  

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb. Ground Beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced 
• 3 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cups Potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup Carrots, diced
• 1 cup Celery, diced
• 1 (16 oz) block of Velveeta Cheese cubed
• 1 (8 oz) block of Cream Cheese, cubed and at room temperature
• 2 cups Milk or Heavy Cream

For the Sesame Seed Croutons:

• 2 Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Brown the Beef:  In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.  Drain any excess fat.  Add the diced onions and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.  Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.  
2. Assemble the Soup:  Add the cooked ground beef, onion, potatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth to the crockpot.  Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or HIGH for 3-4 hours.  
3. Add the Cheeses:  One hour before the soup is finished add the cheeses and milk.  Allow the cheese to melt and stir into the soup.  There may be a few little chunks of cream cheese, but they will continue to melt.  
4. Make the Sesame Seed Bun Croutons:  Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C.  Cut the sesame seed hamburger buns into bite-sized cubes.  Toss the cubes in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.  Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.  
5. Serve and Enjoy:  Ladle the cheeseburger soup into bowls, and top with the crispy sesame seed bun croutons.  For an extra cheeseburger flair, garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or chopped pickles.  

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Use a Beef Broth Base:  For a richer flavor, substitute chicken broth with beef broth.  
• Veggie Variations:  Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.  
• Make it Low Carb:  Substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb version. 

FAQs:

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes!  Frozen Vegetables like diced potatoes or mixed veggies work great in this recipe and save time on prep.

Can I freeze Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup?

Absolutely!  Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.  It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.  Just a note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating.  

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

You can!  Cook the ground beef and vegetables in a large pot, add the broth and simmer until the veggies are tender, then follow the same steps for the cheese sauce.  

What toppings go well with this soup?

Think classic cheeseburger!  Add toppings like crispy bacon, diced pickles, or even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for extra flavor.  

This Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup with Sesame Seed Bun Croutons is the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy, creamy soup.  With its rich broth, melted cheese, and crispy croutons, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.  Whether you're prepping for a busy weeknight or whipping up a meal for a gathering, this recipe will be a hit every time.  

Make sure to save this recipe and share it with your friends and family.  Everyone's going to want to try this cheeseburger inspired twist on classic comfort food. 

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~