In the world of comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, made effortlessly in the crockpot, is a perfect example of comfort food done right. This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef, the earthiness of potatoes, and the creaminess of cheese to create a soup that’s not only filling but also incredibly flavorful. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this delightful soup, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you’re in need of some culinary comfort.
The Essence of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of warmth and satisfaction. It’s a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or simply looking for a comforting meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 6 cups peeled & diced Russet potatoes
- 2 cups of your favorite frozen vegetable mix
- 3 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
Instructions
- Browning the Beef: In a large skillet, fry the ground beef and onions until the onions are soft and the beef is browned. Draining the grease ensures the soup isn’t too oily.
- Adding Garlic: Fry the garlic until it’s browned and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
- Combining in Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Add in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, vegetables, basil, and parsley. The crockpot will do the heavy lifting, slowly melding the flavors together.
- Cooking the Soup: Cook on low in the crockpot for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re using a stove, simmer until the potatoes are tender and start to dissolve slightly. This slow cooking process is crucial for developing the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Thickening the Soup: Whisk the cornstarch into the milk, then whisk this mixture into the soup. This will thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.
- Adding Cheese: Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the soup and let it melt, stirring occasionally. The cheese adds a creamy, velvety texture and rich flavor.
- Serving: Once the cheese has melted into the soup completely, it’s ready to be served. Spoon the hearty soup into bowls and enjoy.
Conclusion
The Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a testament to the joys of slow-cooked meals. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and comfort. This soup is perfect for those days when you need a little warmth and comfort in your life. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a cool autumn evening, a bowl of this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. So, get your crockpot ready and prepare for a culinary experience that is as comforting as it is delicious.