1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 cup diced onion
2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup carrots, diced
3 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked bacon (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Brown the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or your chosen substitute) until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add to the slow cooker: Transfer the browned meat to your crock pot. This provides a rich flavor base.
Chop the veggies: Prepare your onions, potatoes, and carrots. The smaller you dice them, the quicker they’ll cook.
Mix ingredients: Add the diced onions, potatoes, carrots, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Stir and cover: Give everything a good stir to combine, then cover the crock pot with the lid. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Finishing touches: If cooking on low or high, add in the cheese during the last 30 minutes. Stir until melted and creamy.
Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with optional toppings like bacon bits, chopped green onions, or more cheese.
