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:
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Brown and drain the ground beef.
- Dice potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Slow Cooker Setup:
- In the slow cooker, combine browned ground beef, diced potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt, pepper, basil, garlic powder, and chicken broth.
- Cooking:
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7 hours.
- Cheese Addition:
- Add cubed Velveeta and softened cream cheese towards the end of the cooking time.
- Final Hour:
- Continue to cook on low for an additional hour, allowing the cheeses to melt and flavors to meld.
- Mix Well:
- Stir the soup well until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and savor the hearty and cheesy goodness!
Tips for Making Cheeseburger Soup:
- Browning the Beef:
- Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned to add rich flavor to the soup. Drain excess fat for a leaner result.
- Vegetable Consistency:
- Dice the vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger ones may retain more texture.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Taste Testing:
- Regularly taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Everyone’s preference for salt and pepper may vary.
- 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.
- 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.
- Meal Pairing:
- Serve Cheeseburger Soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- 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:
- Comfort in a Bowl:
- It brings the comforting and familiar flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm and satisfying soup.
- Versatility:
- The recipe allows for customization, from adjusting spices to adding personal favorite toppings.
- Simple Ingredients:
- It uses simple and readily available ingredients, making it convenient for regular home cooking.
- Effortless Preparation:
- The slow cooker does most of the work, requiring minimal hands-on time in the kitchen.
- Hearty and Filling:
- The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and cheeses creates a rich and hearty soup that’s filling and substantial.
- Family-Friendly:
- Picky eaters, like my husband, enjoy the familiar flavors in a new and delightful form.
- Adaptable for Diets:
- The soup can be easily modified for various dietary needs, such as keto or low-carb, without sacrificing flavor.
- Leftover Magic:
- It reheats well, and any leftovers can be stored for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
- Perfect for Chilly Days:
- This soup is a perfect go-to for colder seasons, providing warmth and a satisfying meal.
- Nostalgia with a Twist:
- It captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger but elevates it into a unique and delightful soup experience.