Crockpot Cheeseburgers Recipe
If you’re searching for a meal that’s both outrageously cheesy and ridiculously easy, Crockpot Cheeseburgers are about to become your new obsession. Imagine all the flavor and nostalgia of a classic cheeseburger, but in a creamy, scoopable form that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or a fuss-free family dinner. This recipe transforms the humble slow cooker into your secret weapon, delivering juicy ground beef, gooey cheese, and savory seasonings piled high on soft buns. It’s comfort food at its finest, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly everyone gathers around for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Crockpot Cheeseburgers lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one is crucial, building layers of flavor and that irresistible creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make these crowd-pleasers shine:
- Ground beef (2 pounds, 85/15): This blend keeps things juicy without being greasy, making every bite tender and flavorful.
- Small onion (finely chopped): The onion brings sweetness and a subtle bite, melding perfectly with the beef.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory depth that enhances all the other flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the best in your beef and cheese.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of pepper gives a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): This secret ingredient adds a rich, umami punch that makes the cheeseburgers extra savory.
- Velveeta cheese (8 ounces, cubed): Velveeta melts into a silky, ultra-creamy sauce that’s pure comfort.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): For sharp, tangy cheesiness and a touch of color.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Helps the cheese mixture stay perfectly smooth and luscious.
- Hamburger buns (8): Soft, pillowy buns are the perfect vehicle for scooping up every cheesy bite.
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and finely chopped onion, and cook them together until the beef is browned and crumbly and the onion turns soft and translucent, about 7 to 9 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease—this keeps your crockpot mixture rich but not oily.
Step 2: Season and Transfer to the Crockpot
Spoon the cooked beef and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir to ensure those seasonings are evenly distributed, infusing every bite with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Add Cheeses and Milk
Top your beef mixture with the cubed Velveeta, a generous cup of shredded cheddar, and pour in the milk. Stir everything gently to combine. This cheesy trio is what transforms these Crockpot Cheeseburgers into pure melty bliss.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let everything cook for 2 to 3 hours, giving the mixture a gentle stir once or twice as the cheeses melt. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and the whole pot is creamy and luscious—almost impossible to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
When your Crockpot Cheeseburgers are hot and bubbly, spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto hamburger buns. Serve them up like extra-cheesy sloppy joes, or get creative and pile it onto toasted bread for a crunchy twist. These are best enjoyed warm, straight from the crockpot.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Garnishes
Take your Crockpot Cheeseburgers to the next level with classic burger garnishes. Try topping each sandwich with crisp dill pickles, a few rings of red onion, or a drizzle of tangy mustard or ketchup. You can even sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair these cheesy sandwiches with a pile of golden French fries, crunchy potato chips, or a simple green salad for balance. For a cookout feel, serve with creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or even grilled corn on the cob. Every side adds something special alongside these hearty cheeseburgers.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party? Serve Crockpot Cheeseburgers on slider buns for easy, handheld snacks. For a family dinner, offer a toppings bar with lettuce, tomatoes, and jalapeños so everyone can customize their own. Or try serving the cheesy beef mixture over baked potatoes or waffle fries for a fun, fork-friendly twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Crockpot Cheeseburgers, simply let the mixture cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to mingle, and reheated leftovers taste just as delicious as the first time around.
Freezing
Want to stock your freezer with cheesy comfort food? Let the beef and cheese mixture cool completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick, satisfying meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, place the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the cheese sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. You can also reheat portions in the microwave for a speedy lunch or snack.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives that classic melt and creamy texture, you can substitute with American cheese or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just know the texture may be a bit less silky, but still delicious.
Is it possible to make Crockpot Cheeseburgers ahead for a party?
Yes, these are a party host’s dream! Prepare the beef and cheese mixture in advance, refrigerate, and then reheat in your crockpot on the warm setting. Serve directly from the slow cooker for easy, self-serve sandwiches that stay gooey and hot.
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
You sure can! Ground turkey or chicken will work well, just be sure to season generously and watch the cooking time, as leaner meats can dry out more quickly. The end result will still be wonderfully cheesy and satisfying.
Are Crockpot Cheeseburgers kid-friendly?
Kids absolutely love them! The creamy, cheesy filling is mild and comforting, making it a hit with even picky eaters. You can let little ones help build their own sandwiches for added fun at mealtime.
What’s the best way to keep these warm for serving at a potluck?
Set your crockpot to the “warm” setting and let guests serve themselves throughout your event. The mixture stays hot and melty for hours, making it perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving pure, melty comfort in sandwich form, Crockpot Cheeseburgers are the ultimate answer. They’re incredibly easy to make, always a crowd-pleaser, and endlessly customizable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch your family and friends light up with every cheesy, savory bite!
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Crockpot Cheeseburgers Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Cheeseburgers recipe offers a deliciously creamy and cheesy twist on the classic cheeseburger, slow-cooked to perfection. Ground beef, onions, and a blend of Velveeta and cheddar cheeses combine for a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect served on hamburger buns or toasted bread. Ideal for easy weeknight dinners, parties, or potlucks.
Ingredients
Meat and Base
- 2 pounds ground beef (85/15)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
To Serve
- 8 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 7 to 9 minutes. Make sure to break up the beef into crumbles as it cooks for even texture.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once cooked, drain off any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy final dish, then transfer the beef and onion mixture to your crockpot.
- Add Seasonings and Sauces: Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and pour in the Worcestershire sauce over the beef mixture. Stir everything together gently to combine the flavors evenly.
- Add Cheeses and Milk: Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk to the crockpot, stirring gently to distribute the cheese throughout without breaking it down too much.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on the low setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture occasionally to help the cheeses melt and integrate into a creamy consistency.
- Serve Warm: Once fully melted and creamy, serve the cheesy beef mixture warm on hamburger buns like a sloppy joe or over toasted bread for a delightful cheesy sandwich experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped pickles, mustard, or a splash of ketchup just before serving.
- You can keep the cheeseburger mixture on the ‘warm’ setting for parties or potlucks to maintain the perfect serving temperature.
- Use slider buns as a fun, crowd-friendly option for gatherings or to make smaller sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheeseburger
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
