Crockpot Cheeseburgers are a fun and delicious twist on the classic cheeseburger, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef, onions, and garlic with the creamy goodness of melted Velveeta cheese, all seasoned to perfection and served on buns with your favorite toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual get-togethers, these cheeseburgers require minimal prep and cook to perfection while you go about your day. The result is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal that will satisfy all your cheeseburger cravings with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and onions.
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: Provides the main protein and a rich, savory base.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste with a robust garlic flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed: Creates a creamy, cheesy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess.
- 2 tablespoons mustard: Adds a tangy flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
- Buns, for serving: Classic burger buns to hold the cheesy beef mixture.
- Cheese slices, for serving: Extra cheese for topping the buns.
- Pickles, for serving: Adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich beef and cheese mixture.
Instructions
- 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. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, and the onions turn translucent. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Ensure that the garlic does not burn, as it can turn bitter.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Once the beef mixture is cooked, transfer it to your slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in 8 ounces of cubed Velveeta cheese, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of mustard until everything is well combined.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours. Remember to stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking and to distribute the flavors evenly. The cheese should be fully melted and incorporated into the beef mixture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheeseburger mixture is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Scoop the cheesy beef mixture onto buns and top with additional cheese slices and pickles for that classic cheeseburger experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 32g
Serving
Crockpot Cheeseburgers are best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. They pair wonderfully with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. For a fun twist, serve them with different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or jalapeño slices. These cheeseburgers are perfect for game day parties, casual family dinners, or any time you crave a hearty, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat, but you can use regular ground beef for a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning.
- Cheese: Velveeta cheese creates a smooth, creamy texture, but you can substitute with shredded cheddar or American cheese if preferred.
- Additional Toppings: Customize your cheeseburgers with additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onions, or your favorite condiments.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply transfer it to the slow cooker and start cooking.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to the mixture? Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any melty cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or American cheese. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
How do I prevent the mixture from becoming too greasy? Using lean ground beef helps reduce greasiness. Also, be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What type of buns should I use? Classic hamburger buns work great, but you can also use brioche buns, pretzel buns, or even slider buns for smaller portions.
How do I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours instead of on low for 3 to 4 hours.
How do I know when the mixture is done? The mixture is done when the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the beef, and the flavors are well blended. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe if you have a large enough slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the mixture is cooked through.
In conclusion, Crockpot Cheeseburgers are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, game days, or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of these slow-cooked cheeseburgers with your favorite toppings and sides. Happy cooking!