Cheeseburger Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
• 2 russet potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 white onion, diced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed (add towards the end)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (add towards the end)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Brown and drain the ground beef.
   • Dice potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Slow Cooker Setup:
   • In the slow cooker, combine browned ground beef, diced potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt, pepper, basil, garlic powder, and chicken broth.
3. Cooking:
   • Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7 hours.
4. Cheese Addition:
   • Add cubed Velveeta and softened cream cheese towards the end of the cooking time.
5. Final Hour:
   • Continue to cook on low for an additional hour, allowing the cheeses to melt and flavors to meld.
6. Mix Well:
   • Stir the soup well until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and savor the hearty and cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making Cheeseburger Soup:

1. Browning the Beef:
   • Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned to add rich flavor to the soup. Drain excess fat for a leaner result.
2. Vegetable Consistency:
   • Dice the vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger ones may retain more texture.
3. Herb Enhancement:
   • Adjust the quantity of dried basil and garlic powder to your taste preference. You can also consider fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
4. Low and Slow Cooking:
   • Cooking on low for a more extended period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. It’s the key to a flavorful and hearty soup.
5. Cheese Incorporation:
   • Add Velveeta and cream cheese towards the end to prevent overcooking and ensure a creamy texture. Stir well to fully incorporate the cheeses.
6. Taste Testing:
   • Regularly taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Everyone’s preference for salt and pepper may vary.
7. Garnish Options:
   • Customize your soup with garnishes like chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream for added texture and flavor.
8. Storage and Reheating:
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
9. Meal Pairing:
   • Serve Cheeseburger Soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
10. Freezing:

• While the soup can be frozen, be cautious with dairy-based ingredients. Consider freezing without the cream cheese and Velveeta, adding them upon reheating for a fresher taste.

Why I LOVE this Cheeseburger Soup Recipe:

1. Comfort in a Bowl:
   • It brings the comforting and familiar flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm and satisfying soup.
2. Versatility:
   • The recipe allows for customization, from adjusting spices to adding personal favorite toppings.
3. Simple Ingredients:
   • It uses simple and readily available ingredients, making it convenient for regular home cooking.
4. Effortless Preparation:
   • The slow cooker does most of the work, requiring minimal hands-on time in the kitchen.
5. Hearty and Filling:
   • The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and cheeses creates a rich and hearty soup that’s filling and substantial.
6. Family-Friendly:
   • Picky eaters, like my husband, enjoy the familiar flavors in a new and delightful form.
7. Adaptable for Diets:
   • The soup can be easily modified for various dietary needs, such as keto or low-carb, without sacrificing flavor.
8. Leftover Magic:
   • It reheats well, and any leftovers can be stored for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
9. Perfect for Chilly Days:
   • This soup is a perfect go-to for colder seasons, providing warmth and a satisfying meal.
10. Nostalgia with a Twist:
    • It captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger but elevates it into a unique and delightful soup experience.

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