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.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 450
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 28g

Popular questions:

• Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe for a lower-fat option.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

• Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly option in place of beef broth.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half as a substitute for heavy cream.

• How can I make this soup spicy?

Add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to add some heat to the soup.

• Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added veggies.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

You can mix and match different cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

• How long will this soup keep in the refrigerator?

This soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• What can I serve this soup with?

This soup pairs well with a side of garlic bread, a salad, or some crispy potato wedges.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce or barbecue sauce to the soup.
• Top the soup with extra shredded cheese and bacon bits for a delicious garnish.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite burger toppings like pickles, lettuce, and tomato.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mix in a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
• Try using a combination of ground beef and ground Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals on busy days.
• To make this soup healthier, use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and reduced-fat cream.
• Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin for a twist on the flavors.
• To make this soup gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free certified.
• Serve the soup with a side of crispy french fries or tater tots for a fun cheeseburger-inspired meal.

Expert Secrets:

• For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
• To intensify the beefy flavor, use a combination of beef broth and beef bouillon cubes.
• Allow the flavors to meld together by letting the soup sit for a few hours before serving.
• To add a smoky element, sprinkle some smoked paprika or smoked salt over the soup before serving.
• For a cheesy crust on top, sprinkle extra cheese on the soup and broil it in the oven for a few minutes.
• Enhance the umami flavor by adding a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to the soup.
• For a low-carb option, replace the diced tomatoes with diced zucchini or mushrooms.
• Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating a tablespoon of brown sugar into the soup.
• Make the soup in advance and let it simmer in the slow cooker on warm for several hours to deepen the flavors.
• To make the soup more filling, stir in some cooked pasta or rice towards the end of the cooking time.