– **Title**: Crock Pot Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to the Crock Pot.
3. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the heart of this soup, giving it a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, you could use lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.
Potatoes: I prefer using Russet potatoes for their fluffiness when cooked. However, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well, too. If you’re going low-carb, consider cauliflower for a lighter version.
Onions: Chopped onions add a wonderful base flavor to the soup. Sweet onions are a great choice if you want a milder taste. If you’re short on onions, leeks can be a lovely alternative.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy and rich. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk works fine, though the soup will be a bit less rich. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or a cashew cream.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a delicious cheesy finish. I like sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but mild cheddar or even pepper jack for a kick can be used. Vegan cheese can also substitute for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly for Soup?
Browning ground beef is key to enhancing the flavor of your soup. Start with a skillet and follow these simple steps:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Break the beef apart using a spatula while it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned.
- Cook until no pink is visible, usually about 6-8 minutes. Drain any extra fat to avoid a greasy soup.
- Let it cool briefly before adding to your crock pot with the other ingredients for a delicious base.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus your choice of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s an easy, hearty meal to set and forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Be sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. After it’s done, drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! In your crock pot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the browned ground beef. Give it all a good stir to mix the ingredients nicely.
3. Pour in the Broth and Season:
Pour the beef broth over the mixture in the crock pot. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything again to make sure it all combines well. This will create a flavorful base for your soup!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your crock pot and let the soup cook! If you’re using the low setting, cook for 6-7 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, you can set it on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and soft.
5. Add Corn and Cream:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the corn and pour the heavy cream into the soup. Mix it well and let the crock pot continue to cook. This will make the soup super creamy and rich!
6. Final Touch – Add Cheese:
Just before serving, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and everything is nice and creamy. You can adjust the amount of cheese based on how cheesy you like your soup!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you like, add a little extra cheese on top too! Enjoy your creamy hamburger potato soup with some crackers or warm bread on the side!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may not be as flavorful as beef, so you might want to add an extra splash of seasoning or some Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste.
Can I Prepare This Soup with Different Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix it up! You can add diced carrots, celery, or even bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?
You can use milk as a substitute, but the soup will be less creamy and rich. If you want a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half or adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the soup as it heats up.
