First, cook the ground beef until it turns brown.
In a pan on medium heat, cook the ground beef until it turns brown and is completely cooked, using a spoon to break it into pieces as it cooks, for around 5-7 minutes. Remove extra fat and put the beef in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Get the vegetables ready.
Put the chopped onion, crushed garlic, chopped potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery in the slow cooker with the cooked ground beef.
Step 3: Pour in broth and add seasonings.
Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker and mix in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix all the ingredients together.
Step 4: Cook the soup slowly.
Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes and vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Make the Soup Thick and Smooth
Around 30 minutes before serving, put the softened cream cheese in the slow cooker. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully melted into the soup. Next, add the thick cream and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Serve and have fun
Put the soup in bowls and add crumbled bacon, chopped green onions or chives, and more cheddar cheese if you like. Enjoy this tasty and comforting soup!
Tips for serving and storing food.
Enjoy this delicious potato and hamburger soup with bread, salad, or garlic bread for a full meal.
Keep any extra food in a sealed container in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days.
To freeze the soup, let it cool down completely. Then, put it in a container or bag that can be used in the freezer. You can store in the freezer for a maximum of 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight and warm up on the stove or in the microwave.
Useful Tips
For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or choose a type of milk you prefer.
Include more vegetables such as corn, peas, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value and taste.
If you like your soup thicker, crush some of the potatoes with a masher before mixing in the cream cheese and heavy cream.
Advice from Famous Cooks
Alton Brown recommends adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce for more flavor.
Ina Garten suggests using Yukon Gold potatoes because they are creamy.
Rachael Ray suggests adding fresh herbs on top of the soup for a touch of freshness.
Common Questions
Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier option.
How can I prepare this soup without gluten?
Make sure all the ingredients, like broth and seasonings, do not contain gluten.
Can I cook this soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use the "Sauté" setting to cook the beef until it's brown, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on the "Soup" setting for 10 minutes.
What can I use if I don't have cream cheese?
You can replace cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy taste.
How can I stop the cream from curdling?
Make sure the cream cheese is soft before adding it. Slowly pour the heavy cream while stirring continuously.
Can I put bacon in this soup?
Of course! Cook the bacon until it is crunchy, break it into small pieces, and sprinkle it on top of the soup or use it as a decoration.
How can I warm up the soup without it splitting?
Warm up slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring often, or in the microwave for short periods, stirring each time.
What can I have with this soup?
Enjoy with crunchy bread, a fresh salad, or vegetables cooked in the oven for a complete meal.
Can I prepare this soup without using dairy products?
Yes, use cheese, cream, and cream cheese substitutes that do not contain dairy to make the soup without dairy.
How can I make the soup thicker if it's too watery?
Crush some of the potatoes, or mix in a cornstarch mixture (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) to make it thicker.
Try this delicious Potato and Hamburger Soup, a simple and comforting dish that you can easily prepare in your slow cooker!