Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly days, this easy-to-make soup is ideal for family dinners and can be prepared in your slow cooker for ultimate convenience.

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 is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. 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.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. The prep time is about 15 minutes, while the cooking time varies from 3 to 8 hours depending on your chosen setting (high or low) for the crockpot.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Add Greens: Incorporate spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the soup has thickened. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them to the crockpot without thawing.
2. Is it necessary to brown the beef?
   Browning the beef adds flavor, but you can skip this step for a quicker preparation.
3. Can I use plant-based milk?
   Yes, any plant-based milk can be substituted for the regular milk.
4. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Ensure your broth and any added seasonings are gluten-free, and omit the cornstarch or use a gluten-free thickener.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
   Crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches pair well with this soup.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or peas can be delicious additions.
8. What if I don’t have a crockpot?
   You can make this soup on the stovetop; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
9. How do I make it less creamy?
   Reduce the amount of heavy cream or milk, or omit one of the dairy ingredients.
10. Can I make this soup in advance?
    Yes, it can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving.

Conclusion

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a family favorite, while the flexibility of ingredients allows you to customize it to your taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this comforting soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger.

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