potato and bacon soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy slow cooker cheeseburger soup recipe. Packed with hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a wholesome meal perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a satisfying homemade dish. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this savory delight.

Ingredients:

• 3.5 cups chicken broth
• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced (3–4 cups)
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (12 ounces) bacon, cooked and chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free 1:1)
• 2 cups half and half
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
• To garnish: green onions, reserved chopped bacon

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, parsley, garlic powder, basil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, brown the ground beef in a separate skillet. Drain any excess grease and add the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
4. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Add the chopped bacon to the slow cooker, reserving some for garnish if desired.
5. In the same skillet used for browning the beef and cooking the bacon, melt the butter over medium heat.
6. Whisk in the flour until fully combined, then gradually add the half and half, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Continue whisking the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Pour the creamy mixture into the slow cooker, stirring well to combine with the soup.
9. Add the shredded cheese to the slow cooker, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
10. Cover the slow cooker and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
11. Prior to serving, garnish the soup with green onions and reserved chopped bacon.

Enjoy your creamy slow cooker cheeseburger soup!

FAQs:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and bacon, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables or beans for texture and flavor.
3. How long does the soup keep in the refrigerator?
   • Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
   • Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips:

1. For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the soup.
2. Customize the soup with your favorite burger toppings such as pickles, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream before serving.
3. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese and cream mixture.
4. Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles. Smoked gouda or Swiss cheese can add depth to the soup.

With these helpful tips and answers to common questions, you’re ready to master this creamy slow cooker cheeseburger soup recipe. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors with your loved ones!

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