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Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Soup - Cozy, Creamy, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard (or Dijon for a tangier kick)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1–2 tbsp tomato paste for a hint of “ketchup” depth

Method
 

  1. Crisp the bacon: Add chopped bacon to a large pot over medium heat. Cook until crispy, 6–8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the pot. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain, but keep a tablespoon for flavor.
  3. Soften the aromatics: Stir in the diced onion. Cook until translucent, 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Season and simmer: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well. Add beef broth (and tomato paste if using). Bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  5. Add the creaminess: Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese cubes and whisk or stir until fully melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream and mustard. Keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
  6. Cheese it up: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar a handful at a time until melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Finish with crunch and zing: Stir in chopped dill pickles and half the crispy bacon. Simmer 2 more minutes on low.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with remaining bacon, extra cheddar, and chives or green onions. Add a few extra pickle pieces if you love that cheeseburger tang.