Warm up your soul and tantalize your taste buds with the Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup. This indulgent recipe takes the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a luscious, slow-cooked masterpiece. Packed with creamy goodness, savory ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the rich tapestry of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this velvety delight.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Crispy bacon bits
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Slow Cooker Prep: Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic.
- Create the Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the thickened milk mixture into the slow cooker with the beef and vegetables. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard. Stir well to combine.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
- Add Cheesy Goodness: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Allow the cheeses to melt and incorporate into the soup.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if desired.
- Serve with Garnishes: Ladle the Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Cook Notes
- Cheese Matters: For an extra indulgent experience, choose high-quality sharp cheddar cheese. Its robust flavor will shine through in every spoonful.
- Consistency Control: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more milk if you prefer a lighter texture.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors tend to deepen and meld even more, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy days.
Variations
1. Mushroom Magic:
Enhance the earthy notes by adding sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for a Mushroom Cheeseburger Soup twist.
2. Spicy Kick:
Elevate the heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a Spicy Cheeseburger Soup experience.
3. Loaded Deluxe:
Go all out with toppings like diced pickles, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of special sauce for a Loaded Deluxe Cheeseburger Soup.
Keto Versions
For those embracing the keto lifestyle, consider these modifications:
- Low-Carb Thickener: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a keto-friendly roux.
- Tomato Selection: Opt for crushed tomatoes without added sugars to maintain a low-carb profile.
- Creamy Goodness: Increase the cream cheese content for an even richer and keto-friendly soup.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Veggie Variety: Include low-carb vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli to add bulk without excess carbs.
- Sweet Swap: Substitute the ketchup with a sugar-free or low-carb ketchup alternative.
- No Flour, No Problem: Omit the all-purpose flour entirely or use a low-carb thickening agent like xanthan gum.
The Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and culinary creativity. With its rich, creamy base, hearty vegetables, and endless customization possibilities, this soup is a winner for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Whether you follow the classic recipe, venture into keto territory, or opt for a low-carb twist, each spoonful promises a symphony of flavors that will leave you yearning for more. So, embrace the warmth, savor the cheesiness, and let the Extra Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup become a staple in your kitchen. It’s time to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience!
