As I was stirring the bubbling pot of savory goodness, my kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of this Whole30 Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup. It’s amazing how comfort can be captured in a single dish while also fitting into a healthy lifestyle. Packed with juicy ground beef and a vibrant medley of veggies, this soup offers a hearty warmth that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. What truly makes it special is its creamy texture, achieved without any dairy—thanks to the magic of nutritional yeast! Plus, it’s quick to throw together and delivers leftovers that taste even better the next day. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of wholesome delight? Let’s get cooking!

Why is This Soup a Crowd Favorite?

Creamy, Irresistible Flavor: The unique combination of ground beef and nutritional yeast creates a rich cheeseburger taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple steps in your slow cooker, you can enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort.

Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is packed with wholesome ingredients—vegetables, lean meat, and no dairy—making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Versatile and Adaptable: Feel free to experiment by adding seasonal veggies or swapping in different proteins for new flavor profiles that suit your palate.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a big batch, and you’ll have delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day! Ideal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, it’s a true winner in every way.

If you’re looking for more comforting soup ideas, check out my delicious Crockpot Potato Soup or the exotic flavors of Thai Coconut Soup as well!

Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• 2 lbs lean ground beef – The primary source of protein, adding heartiness and richness to your cheeseburger soup.
• 1 tbsp garlic powder – Enhances the flavor profile with aromatic depth.
• 2 tbsp dijon mustard – Brings out savory notes; substitute with yellow mustard for a milder option.
• 1 can diced tomatoes with liquid – Provides moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can also be an excellent replacement.
• 1 white onion, diced – Adds a base flavor that’s essential for the soup; yellow onion can be used if preferred.
• 1/3 cup chopped dill pickles – Offers a crunchy, tangy kick; ensure they’re Whole30 compliant if bought from a store.
• 1 cup diced celery – Brings freshness and a satisfying crunch.
• 3 cups diced russet potatoes, divided – Gives the soup body and texture; try sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• 3 cups beef broth – The cooking liquid base; chicken broth can provide a lighter flavor alternative.
• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast – Delivers that cheesy taste without any dairy; increase to 1/2 cup for an even cheesier flavor.
• 1 tbsp dried parsley – Adds a lovely herbal aroma to the dish.
• 2 tsp salt – Vital for enhanced flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
• 1 tsp pepper – Introduces mild heat and brightness.
• 1 cup water – Aids in cooking the potatoes, adjusting for consistency as needed.
• 2 cups almond milk – Contributes creaminess; coconut milk can be swapped for a different flavor twist.

For Optional Toppings
• Shredded lettuce – Adds a crisp texture and freshness over the finished soup.
• Green onions – Provides a mild onion flavor that wonderfully complements the soup.

This hearty cheeseburger soup is a delectable way to indulge in comfort food while sticking to your Whole30 goals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Whole30 Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat to brown 2 lbs of lean ground beef along with 1 tbsp of garlic powder. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain any excess grease to ensure your cheeseburger soup remains hearty but not greasy.

Step 2: Mix in Mustard
After draining the beef, add 2 tbsp of dijon mustard directly into the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the mustard to coat the beef evenly. This step adds a deeper savory note to your cheeseburger soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes (with liquid), 1 diced white onion, 1/3 cup of chopped dill pickles, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1.5 cups of diced russet potatoes. Pour in 3 cups of beef broth, along with 1/3 cup of nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp of dried parsley, 2 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. This low and slow cooking method allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory cheeseburger soup that warms the soul.

Step 5: Prepare Reserved Potatoes
About 30 minutes before serving, take the remaining 1.5 cups of leftover diced potatoes and place them in a bowl filled with water to keep them fresh. When ready, microwave these potatoes (with water) for about 6 minutes or until fork-tender, making sure they become soft enough for blending.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess
Once the reserved potatoes are cooked, drain the water and transfer them to a blender. Add 2 cups of almond milk to this mixture, then blend until smooth and creamy. This step is key in creating the luscious texture that enhances your cheeseburger soup without any dairy.

Step 7: Combine and Adjust Seasoning
Stir the blended potato mixture back into the slow cooker, ensuring it integrates well with the other ingredients. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Step 8: Serve with Optional Toppings
Ladle the Creamy Whole30 Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and serve hot. For an added touch, consider garnishing with optional toppings like shredded lettuce or green onions. This will enhance the overall presentation and flavor, making for a delightful and satisfying meal.

How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh, allowing you to enjoy those rich flavors again.

Freezer: To freeze, transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to 3 months, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready anytime!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat. Stir well, adding a splash of broth or almond milk if needed for creaminess.

Portioning: For easy meal prep, consider portioning the soup into individual servings before freezing. It makes for simple lunches or quick dinners on busy nights.

What to Serve with Creamy Whole30 Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the comforting flavors of this hearty soup.

Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, these breadsticks add a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette lends a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheeseburger soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and zucchini provide a sweet, savory touch while enriching the meal with nutrients.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries contrast beautifully with the hearty flavors of the soup, adding texture and satisfaction.
Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, this low-carb side absorbs flavors, making it a perfect companion to soak up the creamy goodness of your soup.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and protein-packed, quinoa offers a wholesome side that pairs well and adds a lovely chewiness to your meal.

For dessert or something to sip on, consider a light fruit salad or a refreshing iced tea to finish your meal on a pleasant note!

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Whole30 Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground beef and mix it with the dijon mustard up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, chop all your vegetables and refrigerate them separately until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to make the soup, simply combine all ingredients, and cook as instructed. For the potatoes, keep them immersed in water in the fridge—this prevents browning. By prepping ahead, you’ll save valuable time on busy weekdays while still enjoying a delicious, hearty meal at home.

Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Soup

Avoid Greasiness: Drain the cooked ground beef well to prevent a greasy soup—a simple step that makes a big difference.

Blending Tip: For a creamier texture, blend the reserved potatoes until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step!

Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This cheeseburger soup also freezes well for a wholesome meal later.

Flavor Balance: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. More salt and pepper can enhance flavor, while fresh herbs can brighten it up.

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to adapt the soup by using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add carrots for extra sweetness and color.

Variations & Substitutions for Cheeseburger Soup

Feel free to get creative with this cheeseburger soup; let your taste buds lead the way!

Lean Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetable Variety: Mix in colorful veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added sweetness and nutrition.
Sweet Potato Twist: Swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to give the soup a delightful, natural sweetness.
Broth Options: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a different, lighter flavor profile.
Nutritional Yeast Rise: Increase the nutritional yeast to 1/2 cup for an intensified cheesy flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or chili powder for a bit of heat to spice things up if you love a good kick.
Creamy Coconut: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk for a unique flavor twist that still keeps it dairy-free.
Fresh Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the soup beautifully.

Remember, the magic of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Enhance your meal experience by pairing this comforting soup with my scrumptious Crockpot Potato Soup or indulge in the rich flavors of Thai Coconut Soup for a delightful culinary journey!

Creamy Whole30 Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for this soup?
I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the richness without the extra grease, but if you want an even lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully too!

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftover cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze this soup? What’s the best method?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For easy meal prep, portion it out into individual servings before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or almond milk for a creamy texture.

How can I adjust the soup for dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary concerns, this soup is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free due to the use of almond milk and nutritional yeast. However, always ensure that all other ingredients, like broth and pickles, are also lacking gluten. For those with nut allergies, you can substitute almond milk with coconut milk or a nut-free milk alternative.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find your cheeseburger soup is thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit of additional beef broth or almond milk until you reach your preferred consistency. Adjusting liquid can also help balance flavors, so feel free to add just a splash at a time!