If you’re searching for a fun, fuss-free way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheeseburger, look no further than these Crockpot Cheeseburgers. They deliver everything you love about a juicy burger—melty cheese, savory beef, tangy ketchup, and mustard—packed into a creamy, irresistible sandwich that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Whip up a batch with just a handful of pantry staples, and watch as everyone lines up for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Crockpot Cheeseburgers is how you turn simple, familiar ingredients into something outrageously crave-worthy. Each item brings its own burst of flavor or creamy texture, and together they harmonize for an ultra-comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground beef (2 pounds): The star of the show—choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Yellow onion (1 small, finely diced): Adds mild sweetness and depth, blending beautifully with the beef.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with warm, savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors in this hearty mix.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a subtle kick and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Yellow mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a classic cheeseburger zing and brightness.
- Ketchup (1/2 cup): Contributes tanginess and a hint of sweetness, just like your favorite burger sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the savoriness and adds umami magic.
- Velveeta cheese (8 ounces, cubed): Melts into irresistibly creamy goodness—perfect for that “cheeseburger casserole” vibe.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings sharpness and gooey, melty appeal.
- Hamburger buns (6): Soft buns are ideal for scooping and soaking up all that cheesy beef mixture.
- Optional toppings (pickles, lettuce, tomato, extra ketchup or mustard): Customize to make your Crockpot Cheeseburgers feel just like the classic variety.
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. This gives your Crockpot Cheeseburgers a richer flavor right from the start, and those golden, caramelized onion bits are totally worth it! Once the mixture is cooked through, drain excess grease so your final dish isn’t too heavy.
Step 2: Season and Mix
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture right into your slow cooker. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, yellow mustard, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until everything is evenly combined. This step is key for infusing those distinct cheeseburger nuances all throughout the beef, delivering that familiar flavor in every spoonful.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Now for the part everyone loves—cheese time! Add cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar directly into the crockpot. The Velveeta melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce, while the cheddar amps up the flavor. Give everything a gentle stir to nestle the cheeses into the beef mixture, and get ready for serious melty magic.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Perfectly Creamy
Cover and set your crockpot to low. Let your Crockpot Cheeseburgers cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice if you’re nearby. As the cheese melts, all the ingredients marry into an ultra-smooth, savory filling. The hardest part is waiting for those amazing burger aromas to fill your kitchen!
Step 5: Serve on Buns with Toppings
When the mixture is hot, creamy, and fully melted, scoop generous spoonfuls onto hamburger buns. Top with pickles, lettuce, tomato, or any of your favorite burger condiments. Each bite delivers pure comfort, ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Garnishes
Don’t be shy—load up these sandwiches! A few tangy pickles, crisp shredded lettuce, and hearty tomato slices add freshness and crunch. If you want to gild the lily, a drizzle of extra ketchup or mustard gives these Crockpot Cheeseburgers true diner-style flair.
Side Dishes
This oozy, savory filling pairs exquisitely with crispy potato chips, classic fries, or a simple green salad. For a picnic feel, serve with coleslaw or baked beans, and you’ve got a meal that screams backyard cookout, no grill required.
Creative Ways to Present
Crockpot Cheeseburgers aren’t just for buns! Try spooning the cheesy beef mixture over baked potatoes or crunchy tortilla chips for a fun nacho twist. For a kid-friendly approach, serve with slider buns for mini sandwich bites—or simply let everyone DIY their own with a toppings bar.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the Crockpot Cheeseburgers cool to room temperature, then scoop the mixture into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—this reheats beautifully for lunch or a quick dinner.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled beef and cheese mixture in a freezer-friendly container or heavy-duty bag. Squeeze out excess air before sealing. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-cooked creamy texture, warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. For single servings, the microwave also works in short bursts. Add a splash of milk if the mixture needs a little loosening up.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are both tasty, lean alternatives to beef. Just keep in mind that flavors will be a bit lighter, so a dash more Worcestershire or a sprinkle of extra cheese can help boost the richness.
Is it possible to make Crockpot Cheeseburgers vegetarian?
You bet! Swap the ground beef for meatless crumbles or your favorite plant-based alternative. Use vegetarian Worcestershire if needed, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free version everyone can enjoy.
Can I prep Crockpot Cheeseburgers overnight or in advance?
This filling is perfect for making the day before. Prep everything, then refrigerate right in the crockpot liner. The next day, just set it in the base, heat on low, and stir until warm and melty when you’re ready to serve.
What’s a good substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer, use cream cheese for a silkier texture, or try a combination of American and Monterey Jack. The goal is a cheese that melts smoothly for the best “scoopable” consistency.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Lightly toasting the buns before serving adds a little crunch and helps them stand up to the saucy mixture. Another fun tip is to split the filling between buns just before serving, rather than letting them sit assembled for too long.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve had a bite of these warm, ultra-comforting Crockpot Cheeseburgers, you’ll keep coming back for more! They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser and honestly couldn’t be simpler. Give them a try for your next easy weeknight dinner or share them at your next gathering—you’re about to discover a new favorite way to do cheeseburgers!
Print
Crockpot Cheeseburgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crockpot Cheeseburgers are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the hassle of grilling. The beef and cheese mixture cooks to perfection in the slow cooker, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheese Toppings:
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Serving & Optional Toppings:
- 6 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings such as pickles, lettuce, tomato, and extra ketchup or mustard
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a crockpot. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, mustard, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in Velveeta and cheddar cheeses.
- Cook in Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally until cheeses melt and mixture is creamy.
- Serve: Spoon cheeseburger mixture onto buns. Add desired toppings and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese for a different texture.
- Toast buns before serving for added crunch.
- Try serving over baked potatoes or tortilla chips for a unique twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
