Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup

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Ingredients

For the soup:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the creamy cheese base:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Optional toppings:

• Crumbled cooked bacon
• Extra shredded cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Crushed crackers

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Instructions

1. Cook the ground beef:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add the diced onions and garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
   • Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the Crockpot.
   • Add diced potatoes, carrots, celery, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the soup base:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Make the cheese sauce:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
   • Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine and thicken the soup:
   • Add the cheese sauce to the Crockpot and stir well to combine. Let the soup cook on low for another 20-30 minutes.
   • Stir in the sour cream just before serving for added creaminess.
6. Serve and garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with bacon, extra cheese, green onions, or crushed crackers.

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Tips:

• For added flavor, sauté the carrots and celery with the beef before adding to the Crockpot.
• Use Velveeta cheese if you prefer a smoother, creamier texture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Enjoy your rich and cheesy Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup! 🧀🍔