There’s something truly magical about transforming a classic, crave-worthy favorite like the cheeseburger into a delightfully easy slow-cooker meal. Crockpot Cheeseburgers bring all the juicy, cheesy flavors you adore, but with zero fuss and maximum crowd-pleasing comfort. Perfect as a game day showstopper, party starter, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor with a creamy, dreamy, spoonable burger filling that makes everyone smile. Picture the lovechild of your favorite burger joint and an ultra-creamy dip — this is convenience, nostalgia, and pure joy, delivered straight from your crockpot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, familiar ingredients are the secret to the irresistible taste and texture of these Crockpot Cheeseburgers. Each element plays a delicious role, combining to create a creamy, cheesy, savory filling that’s impossible not to love.
- Ground Beef: Look for 80/20 for juicy, flavorful results with the perfect balance of richness.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion melts into the meat for subtle sweetness and a savory aroma.
- Ketchup: Delivers tang and a touch of sweetness — don’t skip it for that authentic burger oomph!
- Yellow Mustard: Adds zippy brightness that makes everything pop, just like on your favorite cheeseburger.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash brings deep, umami-rich flavor and complexity to the mix.
- Garlic Powder: A gentle layer of garlicky goodness that boosts savory appeal without overpowering.
- Salt & Pepper: These classics highlight every ingredient and balance the richness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, sharp perfection for major cheeseburger flavor.
- Cream Cheese (cubed): The magic touch for creaminess and a silky mouthfeel you’ll adore.
- Milk: Just enough to help everything blend together into scoopable, creamy glory.
- Burger Buns or Slider Rolls: Soft, sturdy bread is essential for scooping up that luscious filling.
- Optional Toppings: Go wild with pickles, lettuce, tomato, extra cheese, or even sautéed onions for a personalized finish.
How to Make Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your ground beef and finely chopped onion, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Sauté until it’s no longer pink and the onions are soft and fragrant. This step gives your Crockpot Cheeseburgers that classic, slightly caramelized edge you expect from a great burger. Once browned, drain off any extra fat so you don’t end up with a greasy filling.
Step 2: Flavorful Seasoning Mix
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. Now it’s time to stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These simple condiments and spices pack in all the zippy, savory flavors you love in a cheeseburger — and your kitchen will start to smell amazing.
Step 3: Add Cheeses and Creaminess
Scatter the shredded cheddar, cubed cream cheese, and pour in the milk right over the beef. Stir gently just to start the blending — the actual magic happens as it cooks. Setting everything together like this ensures the cheese melts evenly and creates that signature creamy texture that makes Crockpot Cheeseburgers so addictive.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and set it on low. Let the mixture cook for 1 to 2 hours, giving it a stir once or twice along the way. You’ll watch the cheese fully melt, the cream cheese disappear into silky smoothness, and all the flavors become best friends. Be patient — when you peek under the lid and see that creamy, meaty, cheesy filling, you’ll know it’s burger bliss time!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to eat, pile the warm, cheesy mixture generously onto fresh burger buns or slider rolls. Set out plenty of toppings so everyone can build their personal masterpiece. Whether it’s a family dinner or a party buffet, watch as these Crockpot Cheeseburgers disappear — scooped up and smiling all around.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheeseburgers
Garnishes
Let’s get creative — topping your Crockpot Cheeseburgers is half the fun! Classic options like crisp pickles, leafy lettuce, and juicy tomato slices bring freshness and crunch. Extra cheddar gives more gooey melt, while a sprinkle of green onions or even crispy bacon crumbles can take things to new heights. Let your guests play with their favorites for a true build-your-own burger bar.
Side Dishes
Pair these cheesy sandwiches with your favorite backyard classics: think golden-brown fries, kettle chips, roasted sweet potato wedges, or crisp coleslaw. For a lighter vibe, try a tangy cucumber salad or fresh fruit. These hearty Crockpot Cheeseburgers anchor any meal, but the right sides make your table feel like the ultimate cookout — even in the middle of winter!
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party? Serve the filling buffet-style with slider buns and a toppings bar so guests can mix and match. Spoon it into mini pretzel rolls for a twist, or pile it over baked potatoes for a filling, cheesy treat. Leftover Crockpot Cheeseburgers even make a killer topping for nachos or wrapped up in tortillas for “cheeseburger tacos.” The possibilities are endless — let your imagination and appetite lead the way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got more filling than buns? Simply let your Crockpot Cheeseburgers mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days — making it perfect for next-day lunches or a repeat family dinner without any extra cook time!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the cooked cheeseburger filling! Divide it into meal-sized portions and pack in freezer-safe bags or containers. Flatten for easy stacking and thawing. It will stay tasty in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture or savory flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in your slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, stirring occasionally. If it seems a little thick after chilling, splash in a bit of milk to loosen. Microwave works in a pinch, just give it a good stir to distribute the cheese evenly. Serve hot in fresh buns, and you’re back to burger bliss!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! For a lighter take, swap in ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind these leaner meats might be a little less juicy, so don’t skimp on the cheese and maybe add an extra splash of milk for creaminess.
What’s the best way to keep Crockpot Cheeseburgers warm at a party?
Your slow cooker’s “keep warm” setting is perfect for this! Just set it out with a ladle, buns, and all the toppings. Give it a quick stir every so often to keep the mixture silky and smooth for hours.
Can I make Crockpot Cheeseburgers ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the filling a day in advance and refrigerate. Just reheat gently in your crockpot or on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. This makes weeknight dinners and party planning a breeze.
What toppings go well with Crockpot Cheeseburgers?
The sky’s the limit! Classic toppings include pickles, lettuce, tomato, and extra cheese. For more flavor, try sautéed onions, jalapeños, crispy bacon, or spicy mustard. Set up a toppings bar so everyone can get creative!
Will the filling be runny or solid?
The texture is creamy and scoopable — not runny, but not solid either. It’s designed to sit snugly in a bun without dripping out, thanks to the blend of cheddar, cream cheese, and the perfect splash of milk.
Final Thoughts
If you love a good cheeseburger but want to skip the grill and still wow a crowd, Crockpot Cheeseburgers are your new go-to. They’re fun, unfussy, and bursting with melty, savory comfort in every bite. Try this recipe out and watch it become a new family favorite — there’s something about the slow-cooked, creamy twist on a classic that just makes everyone happy!
Print
Crockpot Cheeseburgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these creamy and flavorful Crockpot Cheeseburgers that are perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. This easy slow cooker recipe combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a deliciously cheesy mix that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mix:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
Serving:
- burger buns or slider rolls
Optional Toppings:
- pickles
- lettuce
- tomato
- extra cheese
- sauteed onions
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Add ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cheese Mix: Stir in cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Cook on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Spoon onto buns, add toppings, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapenos or hot sauce.
- Perfect for parties; keep warm on the ‘keep warm’ setting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (without bun)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
