Imagine all the classic cheeseburger flavors you love, made irresistibly creamy and easy to share—welcome to Crockpot Cheeseburgers! This almost-magical recipe takes everything wonderful about a juicy cheeseburger and transforms it into a slow-cooked, cheesy, scoopable masterpiece that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. You’ll love how the slow cooker melds all those savory flavors with minimal effort, delivering a dish that’s as crowd-pleasing as it is convenient.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple but mighty ingredients that make Crockpot Cheeseburgers so special. Each one brings a crucial element—whether it’s a punch of flavor, oozy creaminess, or just the satisfying heartiness you crave in a classic cheeseburger.
- Ground Beef (2 pounds): Provides the rich, savory base and all the meaty satisfaction of a true cheeseburger.
- Small Onion, Finely Chopped (1): Adds subtle sweetness and a wonderful depth as it cooks into the beef.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the beef with mellow garlicky savor in every bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Draws out the flavors of the meat and cheese, making everything pop.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a gentle kick of heat to balance all the richness.
- Yellow Mustard (1 tablespoon): Gives that classic tang and brightness you expect from a cheeseburger.
- Ketchup (1/2 cup): Ties everything together with a hint of sweetness and acidity.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami magic and the depth of something slow-cooked and special.
- Velveeta or American Cheese, Cubed (8 oz): Melts down for that signature creamy, gooey texture.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): Gives a sharp, classic cheeseburger cheesiness on top of the Velveeta’s creaminess.
- Hamburger Buns: The perfect vessel for scooping up all the melty goodness.
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef and chopped onion. Break the beef up as it cooks, sautéing until it’s browned and the onion is soft and fragrant. This first step builds deep flavor from the start! Once cooked, remember to drain off any excess grease so your Crockpot Cheeseburgers turn out rich but never greasy.
Step 2: Combine Seasonings and Sauces
Transfer your browned beef and onion mixture right into the slow cooker. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then add the mustard, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir it all together until the beef is evenly coated. This is your cheeseburger “secret sauce” moment, so don’t skimp on those big, bold stirs.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Now, layer the cubed Velveeta (or American cheese) and shredded cheddar right on top of the meat mixture in the crockpot. Cheese is the heart and soul of Crockpot Cheeseburgers, so don’t be shy! There’s no need to mix at this point—the cheeses will melt together into dreamy ribbons as everything cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook everything on low for 2 to 3 hours. Check in now and then to give the mixture a good stir when you can—this helps everything blend into a creamy, golden filling. The whole kitchen will fill up with the warm, nostalgic scent of cheeseburgers on the grill (but way, way easier).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is thoroughly melted and creamy, give it a final stir and get ready to scoop onto toasted hamburger buns. Each serving is loaded with cheesy, beefy goodness that takes the classic cheeseburger to a whole new level.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Garnishes
Sprinkle your Crockpot Cheeseburgers with shredded lettuce, chopped pickles, sliced tomatoes, or even crispy bacon bits for extra flair. A little fresh parsley or green onion also adds a pop of color, making each bun look as tempting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Classic fries or potato wedges are always a hit, but you can also go for crunchy coleslaw, kettle chips, or a tangy pickle spear. A pile of sweet potato fries or baked beans is also a perfect match for the creamy richness of these sandwiches.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Crockpot Cheeseburgers into a party dip with sturdy tortilla chips, spoon it over baked potatoes, or use it as a topping for tater tots. For game day, serve in mini slider buns for a fun twist that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Crockpot Cheeseburgers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making this a handy option for easy lunches and snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
Crockpot Cheeseburgers freeze beautifully! Spoon the cooled mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out as much air as possible, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, so you’re always a step away from cheeseburger bliss.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk if the mixture seems too thick. Stir occasionally until hot and gooey, then pile onto buns and enjoy just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in Crockpot Cheeseburgers if you want a lighter option. Just remember the flavor and texture will be a bit different, but still delicious and cheesy.
What can I use if I don’t have Velveeta?
You can substitute with pre-shredded American cheese blend or even more cheddar, though Velveeta melts extra smoothly and gives that traditional cheeseburger “gooeyness.” Processed cheese slices, cut into cubes, are another decent option.
Can I make this dairy-free?
It’s tricky since the cheesiness is so central, but you could try plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well. Just be aware it may change both taste and texture quite a bit.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The meat and cheese mixture is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your Worcestershire sauce and mustard are, too. Serve on gluten-free buns or as a dip with gluten-free chips to keep it safe for everyone.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Crockpot Cheeseburgers scale up beautifully. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and give everything a little extra time for the cheese to fully melt and mix.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Crockpot Cheeseburgers, you’ll wonder how you ever hosted a party without them. Whether you spoon it on a fluffy bun or scoop it straight onto your plate, this recipe brings pure comfort and fun to any table. Gather your loved ones and let the cheeseburger joy begin!