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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. If you’re using carrots and celery, chop them as well.
#### **Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef and return it to the pot.
#### **Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. If you’re using carrots and celery, add them at this stage and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
#### **Step 4: Add the Broth and Potatoes**
Once the vegetables are softened, add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
#### **Step 5: Add the Cream and Seasonings**
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley to taste. Stir everything together and allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the soup thicken slightly.
#### **Step 6: Optional Additions**
At this point, you can add any additional ingredients you’d like, such as shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy version or crispy bacon for extra flavor. Stir in the cheese until it melts into the soup, creating a creamy and cheesy base.
#### **Step 7: Taste and Adjust**
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or thyme to enhance the flavors.
#### **Step 8: Serve and Garnish**
Once the soup is fully cooked and seasoned, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
### **Variations of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are many variations and additions you can make to tailor the soup to your preferences:
#### **1. Cheesy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
For a more indulgent version, stir in extra shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) into the soup after adding the cream. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating an even creamier texture and adding a rich, savory flavor.
#### **2. Spicy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
Add a bit of heat to your soup by incorporating chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. This will give the soup a spicy kick, balancing the creaminess with a touch of heat.
#### **3. Bacon Potato & Hamburger Soup**
For a smoky twist, fry up some bacon and crumble it into the soup before serving. Bacon adds a crispy texture and a smoky, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and ground beef.
#### **4. Creamy Potato & Turkey Soup**
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner version of this soup. Ground turkey still provides great flavor, but it will make the soup a bit lighter without sacrificing too much taste.
#### **5. Slow Cooker Potato & Hamburger Soup**
For an even easier approach, make the soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables, then add everything to the slow cooker with the broth and potatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and seasonings at the end of the cooking time for a creamy, flavorful soup.
### **Serving Suggestions and Tips**
– **Serve with Crusty Bread**: Creamy potato and hamburger soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Try serving it with a baguette, sourdough, or homemade garlic bread.
– **Top with Sour Cream**: For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup can add a nice tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
– **Leftovers**: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can be easily reheated. It also freezes well, so make a double batch and store half in the freezer for later.
– **Customize Your Toppings**: Consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or fresh herbs like parsley to customize your soup.
### **Conclusion**
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a timeless and satisfying dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Whether you’re feeding a large family, preparing a meal for a busy week ahead, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this soup checks all the boxes. It’s affordable, easy to make, and customizable to suit your tastes.
The combination of creamy potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich broth makes for a flavorful, hearty soup that is perfect for any season. Plus, with countless variations and creative twists, you can make this dish your own time and time again. Try it today, and enjoy the hearty goodness of a comforting bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup!
