Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups (960ml) beef broth
• 4 cups (about 4-5 medium) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water (if using flour or cornstarch for thickening)
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
   • Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.
2. Add the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crockpot.
   • Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
3. Season the Soup:
   • Add salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley to the crockpot. Stir well.
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
5. Thicken the Soup (Optional):
   • If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk together the flour or cornstarch with water until smooth.
   • About 30 minutes before serving, stir the flour or cornstarch mixture into the soup and allow it to cook until thickened.
6. Add the Cream and Cheese:
   • Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and the shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
7. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Tips:

• Ground Meat Variations: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor.
• Cheese Option: For a cheesy twist, you can add more shredded cheddar or even some grated Parmesan for added depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or peas.
• Consistency: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before adding the cream and cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this creamy soup with a side of crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a simple green salad.
• Top with crumbled bacon, additional cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6-8 hours (with low setting)

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 6 servings):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: ~15g
• Fat: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~4g

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect cozy meal for chilly days. It’s easy to prepare, hearty, and packed with flavor. Enjoy the comforting goodness!