Introduction: Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’ll satisfy your family without a lot of hassle? This Crockpot Creamy Hamburger Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy base, this soup is ideal for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll have a bowl of delicious soup ready to serve by the time your day winds down. Plus, it’s easy to customize and always a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (or half and half for extra creaminess)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots, etc.)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for added richness)
Directions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
- Add the Vegetables: To the crockpot, add the chopped onion, garlic, diced potatoes, mixed vegetables, and canned tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the Liquids: Add the beef broth, milk (or half and half), and the butter to the crockpot. Stir well. Season with thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the soup is well-blended.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: This soup is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little extra broth or milk if the soup has thickened.
Variations:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly soup. Add more beans or extra vegetables to bulk it up.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or parmesan for a unique twist.
FAQ:
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate. Just reheat when ready to serve. - Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like carrots, corn, and peas can be used. Just make sure they are chopped to the right size to ensure they cook properly in the slow cooker. - How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the crockpot towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) and stir it in for a thicker consistency. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe if you have a larger crockpot or want to make extra for leftovers. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, though the recipe should stay the same for the most part.
Enjoy this delicious, creamy, and comforting Crockpot Hamburger Soup, perfect for any occasion!
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