Easy Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup Recipe: Ultimate Slow Cooker Comfort

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup recipe! Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy gathering, this slow cooker sensation delivers rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful results with minimal effort. Say goodbye to complicated culinary endeavors and hello to a hearty bowl of homemade goodness that everyone will absolutely adore.

Indulge in the Richness of Slow Cooker Beer Cheese Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill, and this Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup is truly a game-changer. I first conjured up this recipe during those lingering days of winter, eagerly anticipating the arrival of spring. The promise of “April showers bring May flowers” always helps me through, but sometimes, a comforting dish is exactly what’s needed to bridge the seasonal gap.

This creamy, savory soup is designed for maximum flavor with minimum fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy households or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re defrosting after a cold day or simply craving a hearty dish, this slow cooker beer cheese soup fits the bill perfectly, offering a warm hug in every spoonful. Its robust flavors and velvety texture make it an instant favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

On one occasion, I prepared a large batch before a work trip, ensuring my partner, John, had plenty of easy-to-reheat meals. It’s always a question whether he’ll actually eat what I’ve made or venture out for foods I don’t particularly enjoy! This recipe, however, is always a hit, a testament to its universal appeal. It’s truly a fantastic dish for meal prepping or simply enjoying throughout the week.

Key Ingredients for an Unforgettable Beer Cheese Soup

Creating this epic Slow Cooker Beer Cheese Soup starts with a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to form a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward components, which are easy to find and transform into something truly special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Small Onion: Provides a foundational aromatic sweetness that mellows beautifully during slow cooking.
• Carrots: Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential nutrients. They become tender and flavorful.
• Celery: Contributes a subtle, earthy flavor and aroma, part of the classic “mirepoix” base for soups.
• Small Red Pepper: Offers a touch of sweetness and a hint of fresh, vibrant flavor. You can adjust the type of pepper for more heat if desired.
• Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: The liquid base for our soup. Choose a high-quality broth for the best flavor. Vegetable broth makes it vegetarian-friendly.
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for building the roux (with flour) and adding a rich, smooth mouthfeel to the soup.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux that thickens the soup, ensuring a creamy, consistent texture.
• Cold Water: Crucial for mixing with the flour to form a smooth paste, preventing lumps when added to the hot soup.
• Cream Cheese: The secret to achieving an incredibly creamy, smooth, and slightly tangy base. It melts beautifully into the soup.
• Cheddar Cheese/Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar offers a more pronounced, robust cheese flavor that stands up well to the beer. Freshly shredded cheese melts best.
• Beer: The distinctive ingredient that gives this soup its unique character. A lager or an amber ale works wonderfully, lending a malty depth without being overpowering. Most of the alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors in the soup. Adjust to your personal taste.
• Crumbled Bacon (Garnish): Adds a delightful smoky, salty crunch, elevating the soup to another level of indulgence.
• Green Onions (Garnish): Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color for presentation.

For even more convenience, we’ve compiled a list of fantastic sides for beer cheese soup to help you round out your meal with ease and impress your guests.

Essential Equipment for a Perfect Slow Cooker Beer Cheese Soup

One of the many joys of making this Crock Pot recipe is that it requires minimal specialized equipment. A few basic kitchen tools are all you need to bring this delicious soup to life. Here’s a rundown of the essentials:

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot): This is, naturally, the star appliance for this recipe. We highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete. This feature is incredibly convenient, preventing your soup from overcooking and allowing you to set it and forget it, knowing your dinner will be perfectly cooked and ready when you are. A 6-quart or larger capacity is ideal for a family-sized batch.
• Stirring Utensil/Wooden Spoon: Essential for combining ingredients and stirring the soup, especially during the final stages to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and evenly.
• Soup Bowls: Because a delicious soup deserves to be served in a vessel that enhances the experience!
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For safely and efficiently chopping your vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
• Small Bowl and Whisk: For preparing the flour and cold water paste, which is key to a lump-free, creamy soup.

Mastering the Art of CrockPot Beer Cheese Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this delightful Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup is surprisingly simple, primarily involving combining ingredients and letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Follow these easy steps to achieve a rich and creamy soup that will impress everyone:

1. Prepare the Base Vegetables: Begin by finely chopping your small onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they will cook and blend into the soup’s texture.
2. Combine Initial Ingredients in Crockpot: Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, red pepper, a pinch of salt, a generous dash of black pepper, chicken (or vegetable) broth, and unsalted butter into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on the LOW setting for 7-9 hours. This extended cooking time allows the vegetables to become incredibly tender and their flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deep, savory base for your soup.
4. Prepare the Thickening Agent: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold water until you achieve a completely smooth, lump-free paste. This is your roux, which will thicken the soup. Using cold water prevents lumps from forming when it hits the hot liquid.
5. Introduce Dairy and Beer: Once the vegetables are tender, carefully stir the flour paste into the soup in the crockpot. Then, add the cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and your chosen beer. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Melt and Thicken: Cover the crockpot again and switch the setting to HIGH. Cook for an additional 30-60 minutes, or until the cheeses are completely melted and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Be sure to stir halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even melting.
7. Serve Warm: Once the soup is ready, switch your slow cooker to the “warm” setting for serving. This keeps the soup at a perfect temperature without further cooking.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the warm beer cheese soup into bowls. Garnish generously with crispy crumbled bacon and freshly sliced green onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve immediately and savor every spoonful!

Preparation and Storage Tips for Convenience

This Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, especially with a few smart prep and storage strategies. Maximize your time and enjoyment with these tips:

• Make Ahead: Many of the soup’s foundational components can be prepared in advance. I often chop staples like onions, carrots, celery, and peppers a few times a month and store them in freezer-safe plastic bags. This way, they’re always ready to go when I need them, significantly cutting down on prep time. Opting for pre-shredded cheddar cheese is another excellent time-saver, though freshly grated often melts more smoothly.
• Storage: Allow any leftover Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and consume within three days for optimal freshness and safety.
• Freezing/How to Freeze: Freezing dairy-based soups can sometimes be tricky due to potential texture changes. However, for beer cheese soup, the general consensus is that it freezes well. Store cooled soup in an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to three months. Leave a little headspace in containers to allow for expansion.
• How to Reheat: For best results, partially thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Transfer the thawed or refrigerated leftovers to a saucepan and heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired serving temperature. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, gradually whisk in a little chicken or vegetable broth to thin it to your preferred consistency. Always add fresh garnishes like bacon and green onions just before serving to restore their crunch and vibrancy.

Creative Recipe Variations to Customize Your Soup

One of the best things about this Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or simply to experiment with new flavor combinations. Here are some exciting variations to try:

• Cheese Substitutions: While sharp cheddar is our go-to for its robust flavor, feel free to experiment with other shredded cheeses. Gouda, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheddar can offer a unique twist. Pairing your beer choice with a complementary cheese is a fun way to craft a truly signature soup.
• Optional Garnishes: Elevate your serving presentation and add extra flavor with various garnishes. Besides the classic bacon and green onions, consider crunchy croutons, pretzel bites for dipping (they’re fantastic!), or serving the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive and delicious meal. A swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika can also add visual appeal and flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this hearty soup suitable for vegetarians, simply replace the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth. For the garnish, omit the crumbled bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative or smoky roasted mushrooms.
• Vegan Option: Taking the vegetarian adaptation a step further, vegans can enjoy this soup by making a few additional substitutions. Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and a vegan cheddar-style shredded cheese. Ensure your chosen broth is also plant-based.
• Gluten-Free: The primary gluten-containing ingredient in this recipe is all-purpose flour. Easily make this soup gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or an alternative thickener like cornstarch (slurried with cold water) or arrowroot powder. Always double-check your chicken or vegetable broth labels, as some store-bought varieties may contain gluten-containing additives. Dairy products are naturally gluten-free.
• Alcohol-Free Option: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can still enjoy the complex flavors of this soup. Use a good quality non-alcoholic beer. Most of the alcohol in regular beer cooks off during the long simmering process, but a non-alcoholic option ensures no alcohol content while still providing that distinct beer flavor.
• Scaling Serving Sizes: The written recipe yields six generous servings, perfect for a family meal or a small gathering. You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs. When increasing the quantity significantly for a larger group, you might need to cook the soup in batches or use a larger slow cooker.
• Make it Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, incorporating spicy elements can transform this soup. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the crockpot. Using a spicy cheese like pepper jack or even a ghost pepper cheddar will also infuse a delightful kick.
• Sugar-Free Considerations: This soup naturally contains a minimal amount of sugar (approximately 4 grams per serving, primarily from vegetables and beer). If you are strictly monitoring sugar intake, ensure your chosen broth and beer are low in sugar.

Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup

Achieving the perfect Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your results from great to truly exceptional. Keep these pointers in mind for a consistently delicious and creamy soup:

• Adjusting Consistency: We find the original consistency of this soup to be just right – creamy yet pourable. However, if you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour (and cold water to make the paste) slightly in step 4. Conversely, if you desire a thinner soup, stir in a bit more chicken or vegetable broth at the end until it reaches your preferred richness. Remember to add broth gradually to avoid over-thinning.
• The Right Cheese Matters: Always use shredded cheese, whether you shred it yourself from a block or opt for pre-shredded varieties. Shredded cheese melts more easily and incorporates smoothly into the soup, significantly reducing the chances of clumping. For the creamiest result, avoid adding cold cheese directly to very hot soup; let it come closer to room temperature if possible, or stir it in slowly.
• Selecting Your Vegetables: While carrots, celery, and red pepper form the core vegetable blend in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other sturdy vegetables. The key is to choose vegetables that can withstand a long simmer while maintaining their structure and contributing to the soup’s body. Great additions include diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well), parsnips for an earthy sweetness, or even small chunks of turnip. Avoid overly delicate greens until the very end of cooking, as they tend to become mushy.
• Choosing Your Beer: The type of beer you use can significantly influence the final flavor. A lighter lager or pilsner will result in a milder, subtler beer flavor, while an amber ale or a pale ale will impart a richer, maltier, and more pronounced beer taste. Avoid very hoppy IPAs or extremely dark stouts, as their strong flavors can overpower the cheese. Always use a beer you enjoy drinking!
• Preventing Cheese Separation: To prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy, ensure your soup isn’t boiling vigorously when you add the cheese. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer or on the “warm” setting. Also, add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly until each batch is melted and incorporated before adding more.

What to Serve with Your Decadent Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup

This rich, creamy, and undeniably cheesy beer soup is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Think of classic gastropub fare or hearty comfort foods – it’s a match made in culinary heaven! It’s also an absolute must-have in our household for Oktoberfest celebrations. Here are some inspired menu pairing suggestions to complement your slow cooker beer cheese soup:

Hearty Sides to Complete Your Meal:

Enhance your soup experience with these delicious and easy-to-make side dishes:

• Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: The savory goodness of sausage and cheddar makes a perfect bite-sized companion.
• Easy Hasselback Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these potatoes offer a fantastic texture contrast.
• Easy Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip: For those who love a spicy kick, this dip complements the cheesy soup wonderfully.
• Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: A lighter, flavorful alternative to traditional buffalo wings, adding a zesty crunch.
• Cheesy Bacon Potato Skins: An indulgent classic that mirrors the soup’s cheesy and bacon flavors.
• CrockPot Reuben Dip: Another slow cooker favorite, offering a savory, tangy counterpoint.
• Buffalo Chicken Wontons: Crispy, spicy, and satisfying, these wontons are great for dipping.
• CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa: Sweet and savory bites that pair well with the malty notes of the soup.
• CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs: A delightful blend of sweet and tangy, these meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.

Main Dishes for a More Substantial Feast:

If you’re serving the soup as a starter or alongside a larger meal, consider these hearty main courses:

• Corned Beef Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting, robust dish that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
• Smoked Sausage Gnocchi: A flavorful and substantial pasta dish that complements the soup’s cheesy notes.
• CrockPot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin: A tender and sweet-savory main that creates a balanced meal.
• CrockPot Kielbasa with Potatoes & Green Beans: A classic, easy-to-make, and satisfying one-pot meal.
• CrockPot German Bratwurst: Perfect for an Oktoberfest theme, these brats are a natural partner for beer cheese soup.
• Jalapeño Beer Brats: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these brats echo the beer theme in a delicious way.
• CrockPot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that brings out the deep flavors of the soup.

Sweet Desserts to Finish Your Meal:

Balance the savory soup with a delightful sweet treat:

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip: A fall-favorite, creamy, and sweet dip.
• Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake: A rich, decadent cake that’s pure comfort.
• Caramel Apple Dump Cake: Warm, fruity, and incredibly easy to make.
• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: Soft, chewy cookies with a hint of autumn spice.
• Apple Cider Cookies: A flavorful cookie that evokes cozy, crisp days.
• Apple Cider Muddy Buddies: A fun, snackable, sweet treat.
• Maple Monkey Bread Bites: Warm, sweet, and sticky pull-apart deliciousness.
• Apple Pie Dumplings: Individual portions of classic apple pie flavor.
• Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies: A wholesome yet indulgent cookie.
• CrockPot Fried Apples: A simple, warm, and comforting apple dessert.

Refreshing Drinks to Pair:

Round out your meal with these beverages, some with a nod to the “beer” theme!

• Candy Corn Jello Shots (for fun adult gatherings)
• Fireball & Ginger Ale Cocktail
• Fireball Apple Cider
• Apple Cider Margarita
• Angry Balls Drink
• Guinness & Cider Beer Cocktail
• Apple Cider Mule
• Washington Apple Drink
• CrockPot Mulled Wine
• CrockPot Apple Pie Moonshine

When to Serve This Flavorful Soup

The versatility and comforting nature of Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup make it suitable for a variety of occasions throughout the year, though it truly shines during cooler months. Consider serving this delicious soup for:

• Lunch: A satisfying and hearty option to warm you up mid-day.
• Dinner: Perfect as a main course or a substantial starter for a cozy family meal.
• Oktoberfest Celebrations: An absolute must-have for a German-inspired feast, pairing wonderfully with brats and pretzels.
• Tailgating Parties: Easy to transport and keep warm, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish for game day.
• Family and Friend Gatherings: A comforting and unique soup that’s sure to impress guests without requiring constant attention.

More Irresistible Crockpot Recipes to Explore

If you love the ease and delicious results of slow cooking, you’re in luck! Here are some of our other top-rated Crockpot recipes that are sure to become new family favorites:

• Crock Pot Monkey Bread
• Crock Pot Tater Tot Casserole
• Crock Pot Ham
• Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
• Crock Pot Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken
• Crock Pot Spicy Barbecue Kielbasa
• Crock Pot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
• Crock Pot Apple Crisp
• Crock Pot Cajun Boiled Peanuts

This cream cheese recipe is a standout addition to our collection of Crockpot Soup Recipes, highlighting the incredible versatility of your slow cooker.

The Ultimate Crock Pot Beer Cheese Soup Recipe Card

Ready to make this delightful soup yourself? Here’s the complete recipe card with all the details you need to get started:

Crock Pot Beer Cheese Soup

A wonderfully easy and comforting crockpot beer cheese soup recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This slow cooker recipe yields a creamy, rich, and flavorful soup with minimal effort.

Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars based on 5 votes

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 9 hours

Total Time: 9 hours 10 minutes

Yields: 6 servings

Calories: 412 kcal per serving

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 ⅔ cups Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth)
• 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• ½ cup All-Purpose Flour
• ⅓ cup Cold Water
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese (preferably sharp)
• 1 cup Beer (lager or amber ale recommended)
• Salt, to taste
• Black Pepper, to taste
• Crumbled Bacon, for garnish
• Sliced Green Onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. Combine the chopped onion, carrot, celery, red pepper, salt, black pepper, chicken broth, and unsalted butter in your slow cooker. Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 7-9 hours, or until all the vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold water until you have a completely smooth, lump-free paste.
5. Carefully stir the flour-water paste into the soup in the crockpot. Then, add the cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and beer. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.
6. Cover the slow cooker again and switch the setting to HIGH. Cook for an additional 30-60 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup has reached your desired creamy consistency.
7. Once ready, turn the slow cooker to the “warm” setting for serving.
8. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with crispy crumbled bacon and freshly sliced green onions before serving.

Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
• Stirring utensil/Wooden spoon
• Soup bowls
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl and whisk

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 412 kcal

Fat: 30g (46% Daily Value)

Saturated Fat: 18g (113% Daily Value)

Cholesterol: 91mg (30% Daily Value)

Sodium: 415mg (18% Daily Value)

Potassium: 353mg (10% Daily Value)

Carbohydrates: 17g (6% Daily Value)

Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)

Sugar: 4g (4% Daily Value)

Protein: 16g (32% Daily Value)

Vitamin A: 3353IU (67% Daily Value)

Vitamin C: 27mg (33% Daily Value)

Calcium: 325mg (33% Daily Value)

Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this incredible Crockpot Beer Cheese Soup. It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and joy!

Do you love exploring new recipes? Check out our extensive collections, including copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and our ever-growing category of CrockPot Recipes.

Stay connected for more delicious recipes and tips! Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Recipe originally shared on February 19, 2020. Last updated October 2020.