Bacon Cheeseburger Soup – Crockpot Edition
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen hash browns (or diced potatoes if preferred)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of potato soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- 2 cans (use the soup can) of water
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese, with options like pepper-jack for extra kick)
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (store-bought or cooked fresh bacon, crumbled)
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley flakes (or to your preference)
- Optional toppings: Extra shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper-jack), croutons, or crispy bacon
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the 1 lb of ground beef with the diced onion until fully cooked.
- Drain any excess fat, then transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to your crockpot.
2. Add hash browns:
- Pour in 1 bag of frozen hash browns (or an equivalent amount of diced potatoes) into the crockpot.
- Tip: If using fresh potatoes, be sure to dice them into small cubes for even cooking.
3. Add soups and water:
- Empty 1 can of cream of potato soup and 1 can of cheddar cheese soup into the crockpot.
- Add 2 cans of water (using the soup can for measurement) and stir everything together until well combined.
4. Season and add bacon bits:
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley flakes (or any seasoning you prefer).
- Stir in 1/2 cup of bacon bits for that smoky bacon flavor.
- Optional: For extra flavor, use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon instead of bacon bits.
5. Add cream and cheese:
- Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix well so everything is evenly distributed and creamy.
- Tip: You can experiment with different cheeses or add a bit of pepper-jack for a slight spice kick, which your husband enjoys.
6. Cook in the crockpot:
- Set your crockpot on low and cook for 6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
7. Serve and enjoy:
- Ladle the rich, creamy bacon cheeseburger soup into bowls.
- Top with additional shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper-jack), crispy bacon, or croutons for extra crunch.
Additional Tips:
- Texture adjustment: If you prefer a thicker soup, use fewer cans of water, or add more hash browns/potatoes to the mix. You can also mash some of the potatoes after cooking to create a creamier base.
- Garnishing: Add a dollop of sour cream or chopped chives on top for extra richness and flavor.
Enjoy this hearty and indulgent soup, perfect for cold days or a comforting family meal!