Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Made In the Crockpot

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Have you ever found yourself rummaging through your pantry and freezer, wondering what culinary magic you can whip up with the odds and ends you have on hand? This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, made effortlessly in a crockpot, is the answer to those moments. Born out of a desire to clear out my kitchen before a holiday trip, this soup combines the comfort of creamy potatoes with the hearty flavor of ground beef, creating a dish that’s as practical as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. It’s a one-pot wonder that simmers away in your slow cooker, filling your home with the inviting aroma of a hearty meal. Not only does it make use of simple ingredients you likely have on hand, but it also yields a satisfying and creamy dish that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to get creative with the veggies you choose.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Slow cooker or stovetop pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
• 1 large clove of garlic, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 6 cups of peeled and diced Russet potatoes
• 2 cups of your favorite frozen vegetable mix
• 3 teaspoons of dried basil
• 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes
• 1 1/2 cups of milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 8 ounces of cubed Velveeta cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, fry the ground beef and onions until the onions are tender and the beef is browned. Drain off the fat.
2. Sauté the garlic until brown and fragrant, then add it to the beef mixture.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker or stovetop pot.
4. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, basil, and parsley to the pot.
5. Cook in the slow cooker on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, simmer over the stove until the potatoes are tender and begin to dissolve.
6. Whisk the cornstarch into the milk and stir it into the soup.
7. Add the Velveeta cheese and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally.
8. Once the cheese is fully melted, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef well before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Ensure your potatoes are diced evenly for consistent cooking.
• Stir the soup occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking, especially if using a stovetop pot.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to swap out the frozen vegetable mix for fresh vegetables if you have them. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch or reduce the amount of broth.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This soup is packed with protein from the ground beef and plenty of fiber from the potatoes and vegetables. The use of milk and Velveeta adds a creamy texture while contributing calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Velveeta provides a smooth texture, you can use cheddar or any other melting cheese you prefer.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with your choice of plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that’s easy to create with everyday ingredients. Try it out and let your crockpot do the work! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any delicious tweaks you make to the recipe.

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