Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Warm up with Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, the perfect hearty meal for cold weather. This slow-cooked soup is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning beef)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Prepare Soup Base: Add diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-7 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calorie Count: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetable Options: Add carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
• Cheese Choices: Substitute cheddar with other cheese varieties like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to reach the desired consistency.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute, though the soup may not be as rich.
3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
   Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours if you need it done faster.
4. How can I make the soup thicker?
   Mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers are great additions.
6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
   Yes, vegetable broth is a good alternative for a lighter flavor.
8. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Ensure all ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
9. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
10. What can I serve with this soup?
    Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple sandwich for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. The slow cooking process ensures a rich and flavorful soup that’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying.