This Crockpot Cheeseburgers recipe brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a convenient, slow-cooked meal that’s sure to satisfy. The ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then combined with Velveeta cheese, ketchup, and mustard in the slow cooker. After a few hours, the result is a creamy, cheesy beef mixture that’s perfect for piling onto buns. Serve with your favorite burger toppings like cheese slices and pickles, and you’ve got a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
If you’re craving a juicy, cheesy burger but don’t have time to grill, this Crockpot Cheeseburgers recipe is your answer. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s an easy way to bring all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your dinner table.
INGREDIENTS
- Olive Oil: 1 teaspoon, for sautéing the beef and onions.
- Lean Ground Beef: 1 ½ pounds, ensures a meaty, hearty base for the cheeseburgers.
- Onion: 1 onion, diced, adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, provides an aromatic boost to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhances the overall flavor.
- Velveeta Cheese: 8 ounces, cubed, melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Ketchup: 2 tablespoons, adds tangy sweetness to the mix.
- Mustard: 2 tablespoons, gives a slight zing and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Buns: For serving, the perfect vessel for the cheesy beef mixture.
- Cheese Slices: Optional, adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Pickles: Optional, for a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich beef.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Prep the Beef Mixture: Start by heating 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef and 1 diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, and the onions are translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Step 2:
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it to your slow cooker. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add 8 ounces of cubed Velveeta cheese, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of mustard. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
- Step 3:
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the cheese will melt into a creamy, savory sauce. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Step 4:
- Serve and Enjoy: When the cooking time is up, it’s time to serve. Scoop the cheesy beef mixture onto buns. For an extra indulgent experience, add a slice of cheese on top of the hot beef mixture and let it melt. Top with pickles or any other favorite burger toppings, and enjoy your slow-cooked cheeseburgers.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the cheeseburgers hot, straight from the slow cooker, for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair these cheeseburgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If you have leftovers, store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. It may thicken upon chilling, so you can add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Helpful Notes
- For a lower-carb option, serve the cheesy beef mixture in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Gordon Ramsay suggests always toasting your buns before assembling your burgers for a nice, crisp texture.
- Ina Garten recommends using freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
- Jamie Oliver loves adding a slice of fresh tomato and a leaf of lettuce to give the burger a refreshing crunch.