Description

When the days get shorter, and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the inviting aroma of a slow-cooked meal. Among the myriad of comfort foods that warm the soul, a hearty bowl of Crockpot Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup stands out. This dish is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy base that ties everything together in a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite, offering comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, bacon bits, sour cream

Preparation Method

Prepare the Ground Beef: Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot.

Assemble the Soup: To the crockpot, add the diced potatoes, cooked ground beef, chicken broth, dried basil, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.

Cook Slowly and Gently: Set your crockpot to low heat and allow the soup to cook for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the potatoes to become tender.

Create the Creamy Base: About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Stir in the heavy cream.

Combine and Finish: Pour the creamy sauce into the crockpot, stirring well to combine it with the soup. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 30 minutes on low, letting the flavors meld even further.

Serve: Ladle the creamy potato hamburger soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

Make It Your Own: This soup is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize to your liking. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. You can also toss in a handful of chopped carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the crockpot before adding the creamy base, creating a chunkier consistency.
Conclusion:

Crockpot Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and warmth that brings people together. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and a rich, creamy base makes every spoonful a delight. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this soup is sure to leave everyone satisfied and coming back for more. So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting meal that fills your home with delicious aromas, look no further than this creamy, dreamy soup.