Have you ever craved something that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? That’s where bacon cheeseburger soup comes in. It’s ridiculously easy to whip up, and honestly, who doesn’t love the combination of gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes? I mean, I can barely resist it. I’ve had my share of kitchen mishaps—let’s just say my soup often looked more like science experiments than meals. But this one? It’s foolproof. So, are you ready to stir up some cozy comfort?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you’re looking for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth and flavor, this Bacon Cheeseburger Soup hits the spot every time.
Imagine diving into a bowl filled with creamy goodness, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon. Seriously, who wouldn’t love that?
Plus, it’s like having a cheeseburger without the fuss of grilling. I love that it’s easy to whip up—even on those busy nights when I just can’t deal.
You’ll taste the richness of the cheese blending with the savory ground beef, and let’s not forget that smoky bacon flavor that brings everything together.
It’s pure comfort food. And trust me, your family will ask for seconds.
How can you resist? It’s the ultimate hug in a bowl.
Equipment List
To make this delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that’ll make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
First, grab a slow cooker—trust me, it’s the key to those tender potatoes. A sturdy skillet is also a must for browning the beef and bacon, so don’t skimp on quality here.
You’ll want a whisk for mixing that creamy goodness when you combine the milk and butter. Measuring cups and spoons? Absolutely essential.
And if you have one, a potato peeler will save you from the dreaded task of peeling by hand. A wooden spoon for stirring? You’ll become best friends with that.
Investing in premium kitchen appliances can enhance your cooking experience even further, making meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable.
That’s all you need to get this cozy soup simmering away.
Our Ingredients
When it comes to whipping up a warm and hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, having the right ingredients is absolutely essential. This soup combines all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger but in a deliciously rich and creamy soup form. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and so will your belly.
So, why don’t we dive right into what you’ll need?
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded pepper-jack or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onion for garnish
Now, about those ingredients—feel free to customize them a bit if you’re feeling adventurous.
Want a spicier kick? Reach for jalapeños or switch up your cheese choice. If you’re not a fan of bacon (though, why would you be?!), you could use turkey bacon or skip it altogether.
Don’t worry about being perfect; cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Just keep in mind that the combination of flavors is what makes this soup a hit, so try not to omit the key players if possible.
Get ready, because this soup is going to be comfort food at its finest!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is like giving your taste buds the warm hug they didn’t know they needed. With hearty ingredients and an easy preparation, it’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at dinner. Let’s dive right into the cooking part—don’t worry; it’s a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the veggies: Start with the star ingredients—take 4 small russet potatoes, peel and dice them. Chop 1 small onion and grab 1 cup of shredded carrots. Toss these beauties into your slow cooker along with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Add the broth: Pour 3 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker. Now, cover it up and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. You want those potatoes to be nice and tender, so don’t rush this stage.
- Brown the beef: While that’s cooking, take 1 pound of lean ground beef and brown it in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the fat because, let’s be real, we’re not looking for a greasy soup.
- After that, add the cooked beef into the slow cooker along with 8 slices of cooked bacon, chopped—because everything is better with bacon.
- Make the creamy base: In the same skillet you used for the beef, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and let it cook for about 1 minute (this creates a nice roux).
- Gradually add in 2 cups of milk, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and luxurious—about 3-5 minutes should do it.
- Combine and heat: Pour this creamy yumminess into your slow cooker with all the other ingredients. Give it a good stir, then add in 2 cups of shredded pepper-jack or cheddar cheese.
- Mix until everything is combined, then cover it up again and let it cook for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and oozy.
- Garnish and serve: Once everything is bubbling and cheesy, scoop yourself a generous serving and garnish with chopped green onions. This adds a nice pop of color and a fresh crunch on top.
And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Bacon Cheeseburger Soup! Perfect for looking fancy without too much fuss. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or hosting a night with friends, this soup is sure to steal the spotlight. Enjoy every savory bite!
For an optimal cooking experience, consider using premium cookware sets that ensure even heat distribution and durability.
Tips & Variations
While I’m diving into this scrumptious Bacon Cheeseburger Soup, I can’t help but think of all the fun little twists you can throw in.
Ever tried switching up the cheese? Adding some spicy jalapeños gives it a nice kick. Or, how about tossing in some diced pickles for that classic burger zing?
I’ve even swapped out the beef for turkey on days when I’m feeling a bit healthier—still delicious, I promise.
If you’re into experimenting, throw in some mushrooms or even a hint of smoked paprika for depth.
And don’t forget to save a sprinkle of bacon for that top crunch—because who doesn’t love crispy goodness?
You might just end up with a whole new favorite version.
How to Serve?
Serving Bacon Cheeseburger Soup is a lot like sharing your favorite secret recipe with friends—it just feels good.
I love to ladle this creamy goodness into bowls, making sure everyone gets a generous portion. You can top each serving with extra chopped green onions for that fresh crunch, and why not sprinkle a bit more cheese on top? It’s like adding a cherry on top of a sundae, right?
I usually pair it with some crusty bread, perfect for dipping. And if I’m feeling fancy, a side salad gives it that restaurant flair.
Just picture your friends gathering around, savoring a bowl—seriously, is there anything cozier? Sharing this soup is always a hit, leaving everyone feeling warm and satisfied.
Storage & Reheating Guide
Storing and reheating your Bacon Cheeseburger Soup doesn’t have to be an intimidating task, and trust me, you’ll want to save every last spoonful of that deliciousness.
First, let it cool completely, then scoop it into airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Want to keep it longer? Pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen.
Heat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often, or microwave it in bursts, stirring in between. I’ve been known to microwave leftovers and forget about them—don’t let that be you. Just keep an eye on it, okay? Also, consider using a kitchen appliance that can simplify reheating and help you maintain the soup’s delicious flavor.
Final Thoughts
After savoring those delicious leftovers, I can’t help but reflect on how satisfying it’s to whip up my Bacon Cheeseburger Soup.
Seriously, I can’t believe how easy it’s to toss ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do all the magic. With crispy bacon and melty cheese, what’s not to love? You know that cozy feeling when you take a bite, right? It’s like a warm hug.
Plus, it’s perfect for a chilly evening or when you simply need comfort food, which, let’s face it, is just about always. I might even sneak in extra bacon next time—because why not?
