Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

My husband was blown away by the incredible flavor of this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. As soon as he took his first bite, his eyes lit up with delight. It was a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner on a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3-4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
• Place the cooked beef and onion mixture into the crockpot. Add in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
• Stir in the cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
• Serve hot with optional toppings, if desired.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 24g

Popular Questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for the ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

• Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.

• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add in carrots, peas, or corn to amp up the vegetable content of the soup.

• Can I freeze this soup?

This soup freezes well, just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to change up the flavor profile.

• How can I make this soup spicier?

Add some diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

• How long will this soup last in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

• Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream in this recipe.

• Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free option in this soup.

• How can I thicken the soup?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the soup to thicken it up.

Helpful Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth.
• Top the soup with crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
• Try adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for extra seasoning.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor combinations.
• Stir in some cooked pasta for a heartier soup variation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
• Add a dollop of hot sauce for a spicy twist on the soup.
• Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the ground beef until well-browned for maximum flavor in the soup.
• Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for a few hours to intensify the flavors.
• Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a rich and creamy finish to the soup.
• Stir in the sour cream gently to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
• Let the soup cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the crockpot before serving.
• Top individual bowls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions for added color and freshness.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aroma of the soup.