Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days. This easy-to-make soup combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (hamburger)
- 6-8 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
- Add the browned ground beef, diced potatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth and stir in the thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the Soup:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
4. Add Cream and Thicken:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
- If you want a thicker soup, stir in the cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water). Stir well to combine.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
- For a cheesy version, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Serve:
- Once the soup is thickened and creamy, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips:
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans to the soup.
- Cheese: If you prefer a richer flavor, try adding a mix of cheeses, like sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- Texture: For a smoother texture, you can mash some of the potatoes in the crockpot before adding the cream.
Enjoy this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup for a cozy, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy!
