Dive into Comfort: Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup recipe! Packed with savory flavors and velvety texture, this soup is guaranteed to warm your soul on even the chilliest of days. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—all you need is a slow cooker and a handful of simple ingredients. So let’s get cooking and savor the deliciousness!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (16 oz.) package Velveeta, cubed
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 4 small potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Bacon bits
• Cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until cooked through. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Add Veggies: To the slow cooker, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and diced potatoes.
3. Create the Base: In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown.
4. Slowly Add Liquid: Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and whole milk until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Season to Perfection: Stir in the garlic powder, dried basil, dried parsley, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Cook: Pour the creamy mixture into the slow cooker with the beef and vegetables. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
7. Simmer Away: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the soup is hot and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the extra creamy cheeseburger soup into bowls and garnish with bacon bits and grated cheddar cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Extra Veggie Boost: Add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Garnish Galore: Get creative with your toppings—try sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for a personalized touch.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Indulge in the rich flavors of cheeseburger soup while staying true to your keto or low-carb lifestyle with these simple adaptations:

• Keto Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets and omit the all-purpose flour. Use heavy cream instead of whole milk and opt for a keto-friendly cheese alternative. Serve with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra boost of flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes used in the recipe and replace them with additional vegetables such as zucchini or broccoli. Use almond flour or coconut flour as a thickening agent instead of all-purpose flour. Choose low-carb cheese options such as Gouda or Swiss for a creamy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I freeze cheeseburger soup?

A: Yes, you can! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or omit it altogether for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as sharp cheddar, Colby jack, or even Swiss for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can! Simply follow the same steps, but instead of transferring everything to a slow cooker, simmer the soup in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients, our Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this soup is sure to satisfy. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a bowlful of cheesy goodness that will warm you from the inside out!