Cheeseburger Soup

Cook the bacon: In a large heavy-bottomed pot set over medium-low heat, add the olive oil and bacon. Cook, stirring often until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered out, for 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer about half of the bacon into a small bowl. It will be used as a topping for the soup.

Brown the beef: Turn the heat up to medium. Add the ground beef into the pot with the cooked bacon and brown it in the bacon grease. Using a wooden spoon, break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks for 5 to 6 minutes. Stir it frequently so it doesn't burn.

Add the veg and seasonings: Add the potatoes, onions, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often until the vegetables soften. It's okay if the potatoes aren't cooked all the way through.

Thicken the soup: Stir in the flour and cook it for 1 minute. Slowly add the beef stock and milk, stirring constantly. The soup should start to thicken slightly, but not as thick as a gravy. When the soup comes up to a simmer, turn the heat down to low, cover, and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until potatoes are very tender. Scoop one out with a spoon and try it!

Add the cheese: Over very low heat, add the cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Stir gently until both cheeses melt into the soup. Don't bring the soup to a boil once the cheeses are added. They will break and you'll end up with a grainy soup.

Serve the soup: Once the cheeses are melted, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the extra cheese, the reserved crumbled bacon, and scallions.