Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup: A Bowlful of Cozy Comfort

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup. This hearty and flavorful soup captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger in a warm and satisfying bowl. Let the slow cooker work its magic as you embark on a culinary journey filled with ground beef, cheesy goodness, and savory seasonings. Join us as we guide you through the steps of crafting this soul-warming dish that’s perfect for chilly nights and lazy weekends.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For Garnish:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Chopped green onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Prep the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker.
2. Add diced onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

1. Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
2. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and a small amount of the soup broth to create a smooth paste.
2. Gradually add the flour paste back into the slow cooker, stirring well to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.

Step 8: Enjoy the Cozy Bliss

1. Serve the soup hot and savor the comforting flavors reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.

Cook Notes

• For a time-saving option, brown the ground beef the night before and refrigerate until ready to use.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less flour to suit your preference.

Variations

Loaded Potato Twist

• Elevate the soup by adding diced potatoes during the last hour of cooking for a loaded baked potato flavor.

Mexican Fiesta

• Infuse a Southwestern flair by adding black beans, corn, and a dash of cumin and chili powder.

Vegetarian Delight

• Create a meatless version by substituting ground beef with plant-based alternatives and using vegetable broth.

Keto Version

For those on a keto journey, savor the warmth with these modifications:

Flour Substitute:

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for thickening.

Low-Carb Cheese Choices:

• Opt for full-fat, low-carb cheese options like cheddar or Gouda.

Vegetable Choices:

• Keep it low-carb by using cauliflower florets instead of carrots.

Low-Carb Version

Trim down the carbs without compromising on taste:

Flour Substitute:

• Choose a low-carb flour alternative such as almond flour or coconut flour.

Low-Carb Cheese Choices:

• Opt for full-fat, low-carb cheese options like cheddar or Swiss.

Vegetable Choices:

• Integrate low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

In conclusion, Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is a testament to the joy of comfort food. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with tempting variations, or embark on keto and low-carb adaptations, this soup is a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. Share it with friends and family during gatherings, savor it as a satisfying weeknight meal, or simply revel in the joy of crafting a dish that encapsulates the heartwarming flavors of a cheeseburger in each spoonful. Let the Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and delight to every bowl. Elevate your comfort food experience with this rich and savory soup that invites you to indulge in the cozy bliss of a cheeseburger in liquid form.