– **Title**: Slow Cooker Hamburger Potato Soup
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
– 1 cup onion, chopped (1 medium onion)
– 2 cups carrots, sliced (about 3 medium carrots)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Optional: chopped green onions or shredded cheese for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked ground beef to a slow cooker.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), frozen corn, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream to add creaminess to the soup.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use ground beef for its rich flavor. However, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well too if you prefer a lighter dish. You can also use ground chicken or even plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version!
Potasoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this soup. They have the right texture to become tender while maintaining some structure. If you want a lower-carb option, try cauliflower or sweet potatoes instead—they’ll add a nice flavor twist!
Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the soup, but you can easily use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you want a different flavor. Homemade broth will elevate the dish even more if you have some on hand!
Heavy Cream & Milk: While I enjoy the creamy texture heavy cream adds, you can swap it for half-and-half or use more milk if you’re watching calories. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk can work well, giving a slight sweetness.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Doesn’t Come Out Gummy?
To prevent a gummy texture in your soup, pay close attention to the cooking times and techniques. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook your meat and onions thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds flavor and helps keep the soup from being too thick.
- Make sure you peel and dice the potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly. This avoids having some pieces turn mushy while others remain hard.
- Stir in the milk and cream towards the end of cooking. If you add these too early, they can separate, leading to a weird texture.
By taking these steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy and smooth soup every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Hamburger Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish (optional):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 6-8 hours to slow cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s a wonderful make-ahead meal, perfect for busy days when you want something warm and filling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey), chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep your soup nice and healthy!
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Once your meat mixture is ready, transfer it to your slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
3. Add Veggies and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the diced potatoes, carrots, and frozen peas. Then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients nicely.
4. Slow Cook the Soup:
Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Let the soup cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Stir in Creamy Ingredients:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you like! This step makes your soup super creamy and delicious.
6. Serve and Garnish:
When it’s time to enjoy your soup, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish.
7. Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade slow cooker hamburger potato soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will make the soup a bit lighter. Just brown it as you would the beef, and follow the recipe as usual. It will impart a different flavor but still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be tasty. You can also use water, but the soup may be less flavorful, so consider adding extra seasoning if you go that route.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add the milk and cream before serving for a creamy finish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying again!
