Recipes

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup-Crockpot Edition 2023

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground hamburger meat
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bag (about 30 ounces) frozen hash browns or diced potatoes
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of potato soup
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cheddar cheese soup
  • 2 cans of water (using the soup cans)
  • Seasonings of your choice (e.g., salt, pepper, parsley flakes)
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • Optional: Shredded pepper-jack cheese for topping

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the hamburger meat and diced onion until the meat is cooked through and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Transfer the browned meat and onion to the crockpot.
  3. Add the frozen hash browns or diced potatoes on top of the meat in the crockpot.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of potato soup and cheddar cheese soup. Pour this mixture over the potatoes and meat in the crockpot.
  5. Use the soup cans to measure and add two cans of water to the crockpot.
  6. Season the mixture with your preferred seasonings. Stir well to ensure even distribution of flavors. Mix in the bacon bits.
  7. Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheese. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to combine.
  8. If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can top your bowl with shredded pepper-jack cheese.
  9. Set the crockpot to cook on low for 6 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook to perfection.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy your Cheesy Potato and Hamburger Crockpot Delight! You can garnish with additional shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream if desired.

Note: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrients.

Popular Questions and Answers:

Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Bacon Cheeseburger Soup-Crockpot Edition

A: Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger meat in this recipe. Brown the ground turkey with the onion as directed, ensuring it’s fully cooked before transferring it to the crockpot. This modification can make the soup a bit leaner while maintaining a delicious flavor.

 

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

A: Yes, you can make the Bacon Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time. After cooking, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating it. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency as soups can thicken when refrigerated.

Q: Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Soup?

A: While the soup can be frozen, keep in mind that dairy-based soups like this one may experience changes in texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the dairy (heavy cream and shredded cheese). Add these ingredients after thawing and reheating the soup to maintain a creamy texture.

Q: Can I customize the toppings for serving?

A: Absolutely! The toppings are a great way to personalize your soup. Besides the suggested shredded pepper-jack cheese, you can add chopped green onions, sour cream, or even crumbled tortilla chips for a delicious crunch. Encourage everyone to create their own perfect bowl with their favorite toppings.

Q: Is it possible to cook this soup on high for a shorter time?

A: While the low setting allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook thoroughly, you can cook the soup on high for approximately 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. Keep an eye on it and check for the doneness of the potatoes to avoid overcooking.

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your Bacon Cheeseburger Soup!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Bacon Cheeseburger Soup-Crockpot Edition even more delightful:

  1. Quality Ingredients:
    • Use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to cheese and bacon. Fresh and flavorful components will enhance the overall taste of the soup.
  2. Browning the Meat:
    • Take the time to properly brown the hamburger meat. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
  3. Customize the Cheese:
    • Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique twist. A blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a bit of cream cheese can add richness and complexity.
  4. Add Vegetables:
    • Sneak in some extra veggies for added nutrition and flavor. Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers are great choices. Add them when browning the meat.
  5. Fresh Herbs:
    • Consider using fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Chopped fresh parsley, chives, or even a hint of thyme can elevate the taste.
  6. Garlic Boost:
    • Enhance the savory notes by adding minced garlic when browning the meat and onions. Garlic adds a wonderful aromatic quality to the soup.
  7. Crispy Bacon:
    • For an extra crunch, reserve some bacon bits to sprinkle on top just before serving. The contrast of crispy bacon with the creamy soup is delightful.
  8. Spice it Up:
    • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a subtle kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
  9. Freshly Ground Pepper:
    • Grind fresh black pepper just before serving to enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
  10. Serve with Fresh Bread:
  • Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or even homemade croutons. The combination of the creamy soup and a crunchy element is satisfying.
  1. Garnish Creatively:
    • Besides the suggested toppings, consider other garnishes like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
  2. Warm Bowls:
    • Heat the bowls before serving. Warm bowls help to maintain the soup’s temperature, ensuring a more enjoyable dining experience.
  3. Make it a One-Pot Meal:
    • Add cooked pasta or rice during the last hour of cooking to transform the soup into a heartier one-pot meal.

Remember, cooking is a creative process, so don’t hesitate to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences. Enjoy your delightful Bacon Cheeseburger Soup!

Here are some secrets to help you reach soup perfection:

  1. Layered Seasoning:
    • Season at different stages of cooking. Season the meat while browning, add a pinch to the vegetables, and adjust the final seasoning before serving. This builds layers of flavor.
  2. Low and Slow:
    • Cooking on low heat allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a richer and more flavorful soup. Patience is key for achieving the perfect texture and taste.
  3. Quality Broth:
    • If you’re using broth or stock, opt for a high-quality one. It forms the base of the soup, and a rich, flavorful broth contributes significantly to the overall taste.
  4. Bacon Fat Infusion:
    • Reserve a tablespoon of bacon fat after cooking the bacon. Use this to sauté the onions and meat. It imparts a subtle bacon essence to the entire dish.
  5. Cheese Gradually:
    • Add the shredded cheese gradually, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup. This prevents clumps and results in a creamy consistency.
  6. Freshly Grated Cheese:
    • Grate your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese has better melting properties and imparts a more intense flavor.
  7. Herbs and Spices Balance:
    • Strike a balance with herbs and spices. Parsley flakes are a great choice, but feel free to experiment with others like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.
  8. Taste Testing:
    • Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasoning accordingly. Sometimes, a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make a significant difference.
  9. Fresh Additions:
    • Add fresh ingredients towards the end of cooking for a burst of flavor and texture. Freshly chopped green onions, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the dish.
  10. Quality Condensed Soups:
    • If using canned condensed soups, choose high-quality ones without excessive additives. This ensures a more authentic and satisfying flavor.
  11. Homemade Cream of Potato Soup:
    • Consider making your cream of potato soup from scratch. It takes a bit more effort but can elevate the soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
  12. Mindful Potato Size:
    • If using diced potatoes instead of hash browns, ensure uniform size for even cooking. Overly large or small potato pieces can result in uneven texture.
  13. Let it Rest:
    • Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This gives the flavors a chance to meld even further, resulting in a more harmonious taste.

Remember, these secrets are meant to inspire creativity and exploration in the kitchen. Enjoy the process of crafting the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Soup!