Looking for the ultimate comfort food to warm you up this winter? This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a must-try! Rich and hearty, this soup is the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups diced potatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crispy bacon, green onions, sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot and add the diced potatoes and beef broth.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as crispy bacon, green onions, or sour cream.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Serving Size: 1 cup
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Protein: 18g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
– Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.
2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
– Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute if you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup.
3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
– Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
4. How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
– Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
– Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas to customize the soup to your liking.
7. Does this soup reheat well?
– Yes, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
– Cheddar cheese can be substituted with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or Swiss.
9. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
– You can mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and add it to the soup to thicken it to your desired consistency.
10. Can I make this soup in a pressure cooker?
– Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker by adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
**Helpful tips:**
1. For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of paprika or cayenne pepper to the soup.
2. Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal.
3. Stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for a burst of freshness.
4. To make this soup gluten-free, ensure the beef broth and all other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher before adding the cream and cheese.
6. Customize the toppings to your liking by adding jalapeños, avocado, or a dollop of salsa.
7. Ensure the potatoes are cut into even-sized pieces to cook evenly in the soup.
8. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cream and cheese.
9. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
10. Make a vegetarian version by swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and using vegetable broth.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. For a richer flavor, sauté the onions and garlic until caramelized before adding them to the crockpot.
2. Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy taste in the soup.
3. Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for additional layers of flavor.
4. Let the soup simmer on low for a longer period to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or crispy fried shallots for an elegant touch.
6. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture and rich flavor in the soup.
7. Add a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat in the soup.
8. To create a smoother consistency, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cream and cheese.
9. Incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist to the soup.
10. Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and creative presentation.
Get ready to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness with this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup! Try it out and let us know what you think in the comments below! 🥔🍲 #potatosoup #comfortfood #slowcookerrecipe #onepotmeal