Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly days. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Crockpot:

Transfer the browned beef mixture to a crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Cook on Low:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

5. Add Cream and Cheese:

Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, add the cornstarch mixture and stir well. Continue to cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

6. Serve:

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6-8

Variations:

• Turkey Option: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like peas or corn for more variety.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy twist.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
A: If using pre-cooked potatoes, add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Q: What can I serve with this soup?
A: This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.

Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Conclusion:

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and packed with hearty ingredients that make it perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal, this soup is sure to satisfy!

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