Crock-Pot Cheese Soup
Creamy and hearty, this Crock-Pot Cheese Soup combines smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and melted cheese for a comforting meal perfect for chilly days or family dinners. Its rich flavors and velvety texture make it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for casual gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ham, bacon, carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, green pepper, water, and beef bouillon cubes in the crock-pot.
- Cook for 3 to 4 hours or until potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add the mushrooms (including liquid) and frozen corn to the crock-pot.
- Make a paste with the reserved mushroom liquid and flour, then add to the soup.
- Cook on high until the soup is slightly thickened.
- Add cheese and stir until melted before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you want to reduce calories, substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Don't forget to adjust the liquid if you add more veggies to maintain the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy cheese soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad, such as Vickie'S Lettuce Salad, for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a hearty sandwich, or you can top it with extra cheese and crumbled bacon for added flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or game day gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Cheese Soup contains roughly 498 calories, with 14g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (191% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and calcium. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham and bacon. Substitute vegetable broth for the beef bouillon cubes, and consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
What type of cheese works best in this soup?
A good melting cheese like cheddar works best for this soup, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a different taste. Just make sure to shred the cheese for easier melting.
Can I freeze this cheese soup?
While it's possible to freeze cheese soup, the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cheese until you reheat it. Store in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).