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Embark on a culinary adventure with our “Savory Journey” Beef Chow Fun, a classic Cantonese dish known for its irresistible combination of tender beef, wide rice noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. This dish captures the essence of traditional Chinese cooking, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that delight the palate. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or looking to expand your culinary horizons, Beef Chow Fun is an easy-to-follow recipe that promises a deliciously satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love “Savory Journey” Beef Chow Fun:

• Rich Flavors: Marinated beef and savory sauce create a deeply satisfying taste experience.
• Textural Contrast: The chewiness of the noodles paired with crisp vegetables and tender beef offers a delightful mouthfeel.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes, making it perfect for a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes For “Savory Journey” Beef Chow Fun:

• Beef: Sliced flank steak or sirloin for tenderness and quick cooking.
• Rice Noodles: Wide, flat rice noodles are traditional, but any flat noodle can work in a pinch.
• Vegetables: Bean sprouts, scallions, and onions add crunch and freshness.
• Sauce: A combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for depth and richness.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic flavor that’s fundamental to the dish.

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Beef: Marinate the beef slices in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little oil for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Noodles: If using dried rice noodles, soak or cook them according to package instructions until just tender, then drain.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Stir-fry the beef until just cooked, then remove and set aside.
4. Vegetables and Noodles: In the same wok, add a bit more oil, and quickly stir-fry the garlic and onions. Add the noodles, breaking them apart and allowing them to get a slight char.
5. Combine and Season: Return the beef to the wok, add the bean sprouts and scallions, and pour over the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
6. Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, garnished with additional scallions or sesame seeds if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help loosen the noodles.

Ingredients:

for 8 servings:

6 potatoes, peeled

2 cups grated parmesan cheese(220 g), divided

3 teaspoons salt, divided

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 sweet onion, diced

1 lb ground beef(455 g)

14 ½ oz diced tomato(410 g), 1 can, drained

4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, divided

1 teaspoon paprika(2 g)

½ teaspoon pepper

6 cups spinach(240 g)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup ricotta cheese(250 g)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese(100 g)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350˚F (180˚C).

Using a knife or mandolin cut the potatoes into slices ⅛-inch (3 mm) thick.

On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese and spread until it is evenly covering the parchment paper.

Place the potatoes over the parmesan so each potato is overlapping the previous potato both vertically and horizontally. Continue until the entire pan is filled with potatoes.

Sprinkle to rest of the Parmesan evenly over the potatoes. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt. Bake for 30 minutes, until golden and the potatoes are flexible and slightly crispy.

In a skillet heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the onions, and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes.

Add the beef break up and mix with the onion until cooked. Mix in the tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of parsley, paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Stir, cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.

In a skillet heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach, cook until wilted. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the garlic. Stir to combine. Remove from heat.

In a bowl combine the spinach mixture and the ricotta. Set aside.

Evenly spread the spinach mixture over the cooked potato sheet.

Evenly spread the beef mixture over the spinach. Sprinkle mozzarella over the beef.

Ingredients:

These Sliced Baked Potatoes are Hassleback-style cooked. This signifies that they haven’t been baked yet. They are sliced vertically from top to bottom. They’re then roasted until they’re golden brown. On a plate, this is absolute perfection. Potatoes are the ideal side dish for any meat entrée. The single potato can be prepared in a variety of ways.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, Russet is what I used
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp pepper
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
• ⅛ tsp garlic
• ⅛ tsp paprika
• 4 to 6 tbsp olive oil

Preparation

1. Wash and dry the potatoes
2. Slice the potato no more than halfway down side to side. (you can also do the slices at angles to get a crispier potato)
3. Preheat the oven to 400*
4. Mix the seasoning all together.
5. Spritz the potatoes with olive oil
6. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the potatoes
7. Set the potatoes on a parchment lined baking tray
8. Bake 40 to 45 minutes

Enjoy!

Scalloped Potatoes are an easy classic recipe, perfect for your Easter dinner, Christmas, Thanksgiving or even just for Sunday dinner.

Specifically, these scalloped potatoes (which are technically potatoes au gratin). In my humble opinion, they are simply the best. And in the years since I originally posted this recipe here on the blog, thousands of you have also tried them and agreed! So today, I thought I’d bump this recipe back to the top of the stack for those of you who might be new to the blog and looking for a tried and true recipe to make this weekend. As someone who has made these dozens and dozens of times, I can vouch — they won’t let you down.

Ingredients

• 4cups thinly sliced potatoes
• 3tablespoons butter
• 3tablespoons flour
• 1 1⁄2cups milk
• 1teaspoon salt
• 1dash cayenne pepper
• 1cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1⁄2cup grated cheese, to sprinkle on top

Preparation

In a small sauce pan, melt butter and blend in flour.
Let sit for a minute.
Add all of cold milk, stirring with a whisk.
Season with salt and cayenne.
Cook sauce on low until smooth and boiling, stirring occasionally with a whisk.
Reduce heat and stir in cheese.
Place a half of the sliced potatoes in a lightly greased one quart casserole dish.
Pour half of cheese sauce over potatoes.
Repeat with second layer of potatoes and cheese sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Top with some paprika for color.
Bake uncovered for about 1 hour at 350°F.

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms – a delicious way to cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Your chicken is guaranteed to be moist and tender. Comfort food and healthy ingredients all in one dish!

Ingredients:

Chicken:

1 tablespoon butter
1.5 lb chicken breast skinless, boneless (4 small chicken breast or 2 large chicken breast, halved)
salt
¼ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
¼ teaspoon paprika
Creamed spinach:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
10 oz spinach fresh
4 garlic cloves minced
⅔ cup half and half
⅔ cup mozzarella cheese shredded

Other Ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 oz mushrooms sliced
4 slices bacon cooked, chopped
4 slices Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapenos

How To Make Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon And Mushrooms

Preheat the oven to 375 F.

Butter the bottom of the baking dish (I used an oval casserole dish measured 13 inches x 9 inches x 4 inches deep).

Generously season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, lemon pepper seasoning and a small amount of paprika. Place the chicken breasts, flat side down, into the greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes at 375 F.

How to make creamed spinach:

In the mean time, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add spinach and cook for only 1 or 2 minutes, covered, until the spinach is thoroughly heated through and start to wilt. Remove from heat. Add minced garlic and half and half. Bring to boil. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and keep stirring, on high heat, until mozzarella cheese starts to melt – about 30 seconds. Reduce heat to simmer and keep stirring until you have a nice, smooth creamed spinach – about 30 seconds or 1 more minute. Season with salt to your taste. Remove from heat.

Cook mushrooms:

In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add sliced mushrooms and cook on high-medium heat for 1-2 minutes until mushroom caramelize. Do not salt mushrooms or it will prevent the caramelization.

Smothered chicken assembly:

Remove the chicken breasts from the oven (you baked them for 15-20 minutes). Top each chicken breast with the creamed spinach, chopped cooked bacon, cooked mushrooms and broken slices of pepper jack cheese. Bake in the oven, uncovered for 15-20 more minutes, until chicken is cooked through, no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear. Broil for the last 2-4 minutes, if desired, being careful not to burn the cheese on top.

Dive into the warm, creamy embrace of Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip, a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. This beloved dip combines tender artichoke hearts, nutritious spinach, and a rich, cheesy blend, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a flavor-packed dish that’s not only irresistible but also easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for last-minute entertaining or as a luxurious treat to enjoy with your favorite crunchy accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for the perfect potluck dish, or simply craving a comforting snack, this hot spinach artichoke dip promises to deliver satisfaction in every scoop.

The first time I made Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip was for a casual game night with friends. Seeking something simple yet indulgent, I stumbled upon this recipe and decided to give it a try. As the dip baked, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, anticipation grew. The moment it hit the table, it became the star of the night. Friends gathered around, eager for a taste, and with each bite, the room filled with compliments and requests for the recipe.

This dip quickly became my go-to dish for gatherings, earning a reputation as a must-have at every event. It’s more than just an appetizer; it’s a catalyst for laughter, conversation, and shared enjoyment, a reminder of the joy that good food can bring to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Decadently Creamy: A luxurious blend of cheeses and creamy ingredients creates an irresistible texture.
• Flavorful: The combination of artichokes, spinach, and seasonings offers a depth of flavor that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Versatile: Perfect with a variety of dippers, from tortilla chips and bread to fresh veggies.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this dip a stress-free addition to any menu.

Ingredients Notes For Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Artichoke Hearts: Canned or frozen and thawed, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach wilted and chopped, or frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry.
• Cream Cheese: The base of the dip, providing a creamy texture.
• Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Add richness and tanginess to the dip.
• Cheeses: A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for meltiness and flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for a punch of flavor.
• Seasonings: Adjust to taste with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Recipe Steps

1. Prep Ingredients: Preheat your oven. Wilt fresh spinach if using, and chop artichokes.
2. Mix Dip Base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, and seasonings until smooth.
3. Add Veggies and Cheese: Fold in the spinach, artichokes, and half of the cheeses.
4. Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
5. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving warm with your choice of dippers.

Storage Options

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Experience the delicious taste of the Chesapeake Bay with “Maryland’s Finest: Authentic Crab Cakes.” These classic crab cakes are made with succulent lump crab meat, seasoned to perfection, and lightly pan-fried to achieve a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for a special dinner or a taste of Maryland anytime, these crab cakes are sure to impress with their rich flavor and delicate texture.

The first time I made Maryland Crab Cakes, it was for a family celebration. My husband, a seafood enthusiast, was thrilled and skeptical at the same time. He didn’t believe homemade crab cakes could match the ones from his favorite seaside restaurant. But as soon as he took his first bite, his doubts vanished. Now, it’s a staple in our household, especially during summer get-togethers. Our kids have even started requesting them for their birthdays! This recipe has become a cherished part of our family’s culinary traditions, always bringing smiles and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love Maryland Crab Cakes:

• Authentic Flavor: True to Maryland tradition with minimal filler to let the crab shine.
• Simple Ingredients: Fresh, easy-to-find ingredients.
• Versatile: Perfect for appetizers, main courses, or sandwiches.
• Deliciously Crispy: A perfect golden-brown crust with a tender interior.

Ingredients Notes For Maryland Crab Cakes:

• Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
• Egg: Helps hold the crab cakes together.
• Mustard: Dijon or yellow mustard for a bit of tang.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning: Essential for that classic Maryland flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped for color and flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness.
• Breadcrumbs: Just enough to bind the crab cakes without overpowering the crab.
• Butter and Oil: For frying, creating a perfect golden crust.

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Crab Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, gently combine 1 pound of fresh lump crab meat, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Carefully fold the ingredients together to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much.
2. Add Breadcrumbs:
   • Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture. Gently fold until the mixture just comes together. You can add more breadcrumbs if necessary, but be careful not to add too much.
3. Shape the Crab Cakes:
   • Form the crab mixture into 6-8 patties, about 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them set.
4. Cook the Crab Cakes:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the crab cakes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the crab cakes hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite seafood sauce. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked crab cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Variations & Substitutions:

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Add fresh dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes take the classic comfort food to new heights by incorporating rich, melty cheese into the creamy, buttery base of traditional mashed potatoes. This dish is the ultimate side for any meal, offering a decadent twist that’s sure to please cheese lovers and potato aficionados alike. Perfect for holiday feasts, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a bit of indulgence, these mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary experience.

The inspiration to create Cheesy Mashed Potatoes came from a desire to combine two of my greatest food loves: the comforting simplicity of mashed potatoes and the irresistible allure of melted cheese. The first time I experimented with adding cheese to my usual mashed potato recipe, the result was nothing short of a revelation. The creamy potatoes took on a new depth of flavor and richness that was met with rave reviews from family and friends.

From that moment, Cheesy Mashed Potatoes became a staple at our gatherings, requested for every occasion and celebrated for their comforting warmth and gourmet flair. This dish not only elevated our meals but also sparked a passion for reinventing classic recipes with simple, flavorful twists.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

• Rich and Creamy: The addition of cheese transforms the texture and taste into something extraordinary.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side for nearly any main course, from steak to poultry to vegetables.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different types of cheese or add-ins to suit your taste.
• Comforting: Offers the familiar, heartwarming experience of mashed potatoes with a luxurious upgrade.

Ingredients Notes For Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

• Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the creamiest texture.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of your favorites for maximum flavor.
• Butter and Cream: Provide the rich, silky base that makes mashed potatoes so irresistible.
• Seasonings: Garlic, salt, and pepper enhance the natural flavors and complement the cheese.

Recipe Steps

1. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into even chunks, then boil until tender.
2. Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them to your desired consistency.
3. Add Creaminess: Mix in butter and cream until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
4. Cheese It Up: Fold in the shredded cheese and any desired seasonings until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
5. Serve: Top with additional butter or cheese, if desired, and serve warm.

Storage Options

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.

Dive into the heart of comfort food with Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes, a dish that effortlessly blends the savory flavors of ranch-seasoned pork chops with the hearty wholesomeness of potatoes. This recipe is a godsend for those bustling days when time is scarce but the desire for a home-cooked meal is abundant. Let your crockpot do the heavy lifting as you enjoy the simplicity of preparation and the luxury of coming home to a delicious, ready-to-serve dinner. Perfect for family meals, this dish promises tenderness, flavor, and the ease of one-pot cooking.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes:

• Minimal Prep Time: A quick assembly in the morning means you can go about your day with dinner already on its way.
• Flavorful & Tender: The slow cooking process infuses the pork chops with ranch seasoning, while ensuring they stay moist and tender.
• Versatile Side: Works beautifully with a variety of sides, though it’s already a complete meal with the included potatoes.
• Family Favorite: A comforting, savory dish that’s bound to please the whole family, including picky eaters.

Ingredients Notes For Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes:

• Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless pork chops work well; thicker cuts tend to stay juicier.
• Potatoes: Small red or gold potatoes are ideal for their ability to hold their shape and flavor after slow cooking.
• Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch dressing mix provides a simple, flavorful seasoning that perfectly complements both pork and potatoes.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture for the pork chops and potatoes to cook in, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Garlic & Onions: These aromatics add depth to the dish’s flavor profile and meld beautifully with the ranch seasoning.

Recipe Steps:

1. Layer the Ingredients: Begin by placing sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange the pork chops over the onions, then surround them with halved potatoes.
2. Season: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the pork chops and potatoes. Add minced garlic for an extra flavor boost.
3. Add Liquid: Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring there’s enough liquid to keep everything moist during cooking.
4. Cook: Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Serve: Dish out the pork chops and potatoes, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley if desired. A side of green beans or a simple salad complements this meal nicely.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Delight in the rich, creamy flavors of “Elegant Brunch: Three Cheese Quiche.” This savory pie features a flaky, buttery crust filled with a luscious blend of three cheeses, eggs, and cream. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is as versatile as it is delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love Three Cheese Quiche:

• Rich and Creamy: A decadent filling with a blend of three cheeses.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for entertaining or a special brunch.
• Versatile: Great for any meal of the day.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Ingredients Notes For Three Cheese Quiche:

• Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade, for a flaky base.
• Cheese: A mix of Gruyère, Cheddar, and Parmesan for a rich flavor.
• Eggs: Provides structure and richness.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy texture.
• Milk: Lightens the custard without sacrificing creaminess.
• Onion: Finely chopped, adds depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Minced for an aromatic boost.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Nutmeg: Optional, for a subtle warmth.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional, such as parsley or chives for garnish.

Recipe Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought pie crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind bake for 10 minutes, then remove weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir in 1 cup of grated Gruyère, 1 cup of shredded Cheddar, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
4. Assemble the Quiche:
   • Pour the cheese and egg mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread the filling evenly.
5. Bake:
   • Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freeze: Wrap the baked quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Warm up with a bowl of “Creamy Comfort: Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup,” a deliciously creamy and hearty soup that captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, delivering a comforting meal with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and all the fixings, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup:

• Rich and Creamy: A luscious, cheesy broth that’s full of flavor.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beef, potatoes, and vegetables.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and effortless preparation in the slow cooker.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients Notes For Creamy Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef for a rich, meaty base.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced.
• Carrots: Chopped, for added sweetness and nutrition.
• Celery: Chopped, for extra crunch and flavor.
• Onion: Finely chopped, for depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Minced, for an aromatic boost.
• Broth: Chicken or beef broth for a flavorful base.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy broth.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the soup.
• Milk: Helps create a creamy texture.
• Flour: Thickens the soup.
• Butter: For sautéing vegetables and adding richness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Toppings: Crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and additional cheese.

Recipe Steps:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of lean ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
   • Add 4 cups of diced potatoes to the slow cooker. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
4. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened and smooth. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 8 ounces of cream cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
6. Combine and Serve:
   • Pour the cheese sauce into the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the soup is heated through and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings such as crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and additional cheese.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freeze: Freeze the soup (without the toppings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.