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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
#### **Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef**
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Breaking up the beef into small pieces as it cooks will ensure that it cooks evenly. Once the beef is fully cooked and browned, drain any excess fat. This step adds a rich flavor to the soup and helps to prevent a greasy texture. If you prefer a leaner soup, you can use lean ground beef or turkey.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables**
While the beef is browning, prepare the potatoes and vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using carrots and celery, chop them into small pieces. The smaller the vegetable pieces, the quicker they’ll cook in the crockpot.
#### **Step 3: Add the Ingredients to the Crockpot**
Once the ground beef is ready and the vegetables are chopped, add everything to the crockpot. Place the browned beef, diced potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and celery into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
#### **Step 4: Season the Soup**
Add the seasonings to the crockpot. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and stir everything together. You can also add other spices at this point, such as paprika, thyme, or rosemary, depending on your personal preference.
#### **Step 5: Cook the Soup**
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on **low** for 6-8 hours or **high** for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors will meld together during the cooking process. You don’t need to stir the soup while it’s cooking, but feel free to check on it occasionally to make sure everything is cooking evenly.
#### **Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese**
Once the soup is finished cooking and the potatoes are tender, it’s time to make it creamy. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and add the shredded cheese. Continue to cook the soup on low for another 15-30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup and the cream to fully combine with the broth.
#### **Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning**
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
#### **Step 8: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the soup is creamy, rich, and well-seasoned, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
1. **Use Russet Potatoes**: Russet potatoes break down and thicken the soup nicely, making it creamier. However, if you prefer a firmer potato, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes instead.
2. **Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot**: Be sure to follow the recommended ingredient amounts so that the soup has enough room to cook properly. Overcrowding the crockpot can result in uneven cooking.
3. **Add More Vegetables**: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like corn, green beans, or peas to increase the nutritional value of the soup.
4. **Make it Spicy**: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the soup for a spicy kick.
5. **Use Low-Sodium Broth**: If you’re concerned about sodium content, use low-sodium beef broth and adjust the salt to taste.
6. **Freeze Leftovers**: This soup freezes wonderfully. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.
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### **Variations of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
While this recipe is delicious as written, here are some variations you can try to make the soup your own:
1. **Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup**: Add crumbled bacon and extra shredded cheddar cheese for a smoky, cheesy twist on the classic soup.
2. **Spicy Southwest Soup**: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder for a spicy, Southwest-inspired version of this soup.
3. **Dairy-Free Potato Soup**: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the cheese for a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy and comforting.
4. **Chicken and Potato Soup**: Substitute the ground beef for diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for a lighter option.
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### **Conclusion**
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect dish for a cozy, satisfying meal. It combines simple ingredients like potatoes, ground beef, and vegetables, all slow-cooked to create a rich, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or making a large batch for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
With its ease of preparation, versatility, and comforting flavors, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup—it’s a dish that will leave you feeling full, happy, and warmed from the inside out.
