Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

### 7. **Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half**

This is what gives the soup its creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel. Heavy cream will give the soup the richest texture, but half-and-half is a great option for those looking to cut back on calories while still maintaining some creaminess.

### 8. **Cheddar Cheese**

Cheddar cheese adds a wonderful richness and savory note to the soup. It also melts beautifully, helping to thicken the broth and create a velvety smooth texture. Some people even like to top their individual servings with additional shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy kick.

### 9. **Salt and Pepper**

Don’t forget the seasoning! Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors in the soup. The seasoning helps to balance the richness of the cream and cheese while enhancing the other ingredients.

### 10. **Optional Add-ins:**

– **Bacon**: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding crispy bacon bits to the soup.
– **Chives or Green Onions**: These provide a fresh, oniony contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
– **Corn**: Adding corn can introduce a touch of sweetness to the soup, which contrasts nicely with the savory beef.
– **Celery**: For an added crunch and flavor, celery is a great choice.

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## Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s take a look at how to make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. The process is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps, making it an ideal recipe for busy families.

### Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef (Optional)

If you prefer a leaner soup, start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. This helps to render out some of the fat and allows you to drain it before adding it to the slow cooker. Browning the beef also enhances its flavor, as it creates a delicious caramelized exterior.

To brown the beef, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink. Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain the fat and add the beef to the slow cooker.

**Tip**: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step and simply add the raw ground beef directly to the slow cooker. The slow cooking process will ensure the beef gets tender and fully cooked.

### Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

Once the beef is in the Crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onions, sliced carrots, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken or beef broth, making sure the ingredients are mostly submerged. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Give everything a good stir to combine, and set the slow cooker to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the vegetables will have absorbed the delicious flavors of the beef and broth.

### Step 3: Add the Cream and Cheese

Once the cooking time is complete and the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the creamy elements to the soup. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to stir until the cheese melts completely into the soup. This will result in a rich, creamy texture that coats the back of the spoon.

### Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

At this point, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup in bowls. You can garnish it with freshly chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or a little extra shredded cheese. Pair it with a side of warm, crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

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## Variations of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

While the classic version of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is already delicious, there are several ways you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few fun variations:

### 1. **Vegetarian Version**
To make this soup vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply omit the meat entirely. Add extra vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, to make it even heartier.

### 2. **Spicy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup. You can also top the soup with spicy hot sauce or add a layer of pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy flavor.

### 3. **Low-Carb Version**
For a low-carb twist, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower. Cauliflower has a similar texture and can take on the creamy flavor of the soup, making it a great option for those on a low-carb or keto diet.

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## Conclusion

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, creamy, and flavorful soup that is perfect for chilly nights or busy days when you want a meal that practically cooks itself. With the help of a slow cooker, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort. By using simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing for your whole family.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a comforting bowl of soup, or a dish that can be easily customized to your preferences, Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a fantastic choice. So, go ahead and try it out—your taste buds will thank you!