Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a hearty, creamy soup, and Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup takes comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine a rich, velvety soup filled with ground beef, potatoes, onions, and a delicious blend of cheeses. The best part? It’s all made in the slow cooker, which means minimal effort for maximum flavor. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, busy days, or anytime you crave a warm, filling meal that will satisfy the whole family. Top it with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or extra cheese for the ultimate indulgence!

Ingredients (in Grams)

Here’s everything you’ll need for this creamy, cheesy, and comforting soup:

• 450g ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 150g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 750ml beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
• 240ml whole milk
• 240ml heavy cream
• 200g shredded cheddar cheese
• 100g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for topping, optional)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
   Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add Dairy and Cheese:
   Once the potatoes are tender, add the whole milk, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer and Serve:
   Let the soup cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the soup is smooth and the cheese is fully melted. Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s ready to serve.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra shredded cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
  (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Tips and Tricks

1. Use a Leaner Ground Beef:
   If you want to lighten up the soup a bit, feel free to use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or ground turkey as a substitute for a lower-fat version.
2. Add Veggies:
   You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even cauliflower to the soup for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them with the potatoes in Step 2.
3. Make It Spicy:
   If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup. You can also top the soup with hot sauce for a kick!
4. Make It Ahead:
   This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious! To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
5. Thicken It Up:
   If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes once they’re tender, or use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup until smooth. This will create an even creamier texture.
6. Freezer-Friendly:
   This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate cozy meal that’s rich, indulgent, and filling. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the result is a soup that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The creamy texture from the milk and heavy cream combined with the melted cheese creates a decadent base, while the potatoes and ground beef add substance and heartiness. It’s the perfect blend of a cheeseburger and a comforting soup—like a hug in a bowl. Plus, the option to garnish with bacon and green onions takes it to a whole new level!