Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Are you in the mood for a comforting and indulgent meal tonight? Look no further than this delicious Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Soup! Packed with all the flavors you love in a classic cheeseburger, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease and transfer to a slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Add to the slow cooker.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Continue to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination.

• Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.

• Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

• Is it necessary to cook the bacon before adding it to the slow cooker?

Cooking the bacon before adding it to the slow cooker adds a crispy texture and enhances the flavor of the soup.

• Can I freeze this soup?

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

• What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread are great options to serve alongside this soup.

• How can I thicken the soup?

You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry or using a roux made from flour and butter.

• Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop by cooking it over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Can I add additional seasonings to customize the flavor?

Feel free to add spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.

Helpful tips:

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
• Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
• Garnish with crispy fried onions for added texture.
• Top the soup with diced pickles for a tangy twist.
• For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack or gouda.
• Serve with a side of homemade garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a low-carb option, skip the diced tomatoes and use more beef broth.
• Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite burger toppings, such as ketchup, mustard, or relish.

Expert Secrets:

• Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for a longer period to develop richer flavors.
• Use high-quality cheeses for a creamier and more decadent soup.
• Cook the ground beef and bacon until crispy for added texture in the soup.
• Adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste preferences.
• For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheeses and cream.
• Add a splash of worcestershire sauce for a savory depth of flavor.
• Top the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness.
• To reduce the fat content, use low-fat cheeses and skim milk instead of heavy cream.
• For a cheesy crust on top, broil the soup in the oven with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Experiment with different meat options, such as ground chicken or turkey, for a lighter version of this soup.