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Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup

When you think of a comforting meal that can effortlessly fit into your busy schedule, Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup might just come to mind. With minimal prep time, you can toss in ground beef, tender potatoes, and your favorite seasonings, letting the crockpot do the work while you attend to other tasks. The final touch of heavy cream and cheese transforms this dish into a rich, satisfying experience. But what makes this soup stand out among the myriad of slow-cooked recipes? Exploring its history and variations could reveal some surprising insights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to love this Crockpot Potato and Hamburger Soup for its incredible ease and delicious flavor.

With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can gather simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to choose between low or high cooking settings, depending on your schedule.

You can customize the recipe by using different meats, like lean beef or turkey, and adding your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or garlic. For a creamy touch, consider using coconut milk or cheese. This soup is a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings, and it stores well for later, making meal planning a breeze. Enjoy the convenience and taste! Plus, it contains 211mg of Phosphorus which contributes significantly to your daily value.

History

While the roots of Crockpot Potato and Hamburger Soup can be traced back to hearty European stews, its evolution reflects a blend of cultural influences and practical cooking methods.

Traditional stews featuring meat and potatoes laid the groundwork for creamy soups. As people sought filling meals during cold months, farmhouse cooking commonly used ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, which were readily available. The nutritional benefits of potatoes, such as their high carbohydrate content, contributed to their popularity as a staple in these dishes.

The introduction of crockpots changed the game, offering convenience and the ability to cook meals unattended. These devices allowed for long cooking times, tenderizing tough cuts of meat and ensuring even heat distribution.

Over time, various cultures contributed to the recipe’s evolution, leading to modern variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Recipe

Crockpot Potato and Hamburger Soup is a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creaminess of potatoes. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup isn’t only easy to prepare but also allows for flexibility with ingredients, making it an excellent option for busy families or meal preppers. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while it simmers to perfection.

This dish is ideal for those who love a rich and creamy soup that’s both filling and flavorful. The combination of potatoes, broth, and seasonings creates a delightful base that’s elevated by the addition of heavy cream and cheese. You can customize the recipe with different vegetables or cheese varieties to suit your taste, ensuring that every bowl feels unique and satisfying. Additionally, this soup is ideal for chilly days and makes for a hearty meal during winter.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or beef broth
– Thyme, to taste
– Parsley, to taste
– Paprika, to taste
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup milk

Cooking Instructions:
1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat before transferring the beef to the crockpot.
2. In the crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic over the browned ground beef.
3. Pour in the broth and add your desired seasonings, including thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Allow it to cook on low until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.

When making this soup, keep in mind that using starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold will enhance the creaminess of the dish. Additionally, you can adjust the thickness of the soup by adding a cornstarch mixture for a thicker consistency or extra broth for a thinner soup.

Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal, and feel free to freeze any leftovers before adding the heavy cream for best texture preservation.

Final Thoughts

Creating a delicious and hearty soup brings comfort and satisfaction, especially on cold days. This Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup isn’t only easy to make, but it also provides a nutritious meal. With 25 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving, it stands as a complete dish. Remember to preheat your crockpot for consistent cooking, and consider layering flavors by sautéing veggies before adding them.

Incorporating ground beef into your recipe not only enhances its flavor but also contributes to the protein content. Customize your soup with different vegetables to enhance nutritional value. When storing, let it cool before freezing in safe containers. Reheat gently to maintain that creamy texture. Enjoy garnishing with cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor, making each bowl a delightful experience!

FAQ

If you have questions about making this delicious soup, you’re in the right place!

For the best results, use Russet potatoes for their starchiness, or Yukon Golds if you’re okay with adjusting the cooking time. Aim for 1/2-inch diced potatoes for even cooking.

To adjust consistency, mash some potatoes for thickness, or add broth for a thinner soup. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef and use beef broth if preferred. Additionally, consider using different ground meats for a variation in flavor and texture.

Don’t forget to brown the ground beef first! Stir occasionally in the crockpot, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Add cheese and cream towards the end for ideal melting. Enjoy your hearty creation!