Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Comfort in a Bowl
Ever walked into a kitchen and felt instantly hugged by the aroma of a simmering soup? That warm, inviting scent wafting through the air is Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup doing its magic! This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, with a rich, creamy base loaded with hearty ingredients. Plus, it just might become your family’s new go-to meal!
Why Make This Recipe
So why should you make this delightful soup?
- Easy Cleanup: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. Who has time to wash a ton of dishes anyway?
- Family-Friendly: Kids love creamy soups and cheesy goodness. You might even win the "Best Dinner Award" at home!
- Affordable Ingredients: With items you likely have on hand, this soup proves delicious doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
What’s not to love? 🍽️
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 3 large carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Directions
Cooking has never been this easy! Follow these steps:
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain the excess fat like a pro.
- Add aromatics: Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent and your kitchen smells divine.
- Transfer to crockpot: Move the beef mixture to your trusty crockpot, then add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Pour in broth: Add in the broth along with thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for good measure!
- Set and forget: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything’s tender.
- Final touch: In the last 20 minutes, stir in cream, cheese, and milk. If you like it thicker, toss in that cornstarch mixture now.
- Serve it up: Dishe out hot soup, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra cheese. Yum!
How to Make Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup (Overview)
Making this soup is a breeze! Start by browning the beef while you chop your veggies. Then, just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it work its magic for a few hours. The final swirl of cream and cheese takes it from good to oh-em-gee. Just remember, don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! 😉
How to Serve Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Serve this soup with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Picture it: steaming bowls of creamy soup next to a golden-brown baguette, the aroma wafting through your home.
Top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheddar for that colorful pop! Each spoonful is creamy, loaded with tender veggies, and oh-so-comforting.
How to Store Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Got leftovers? No worries! This soup keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Timing is key: For the best flavor, let it cook longer on low heat. Your patience will be rewarded!
- Ingredient swaps: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. 🦃
- Cream alternatives: For a lighter soup, consider substituting half-and-half or even coconut milk.
- Fresh herbs: Adding fresh thyme or parsley right before serving elevates the flavor. Just don’t go overboard — it’s still comfort food!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Spice it up by adding cooked bacon or a splash of hot sauce for heat. Want it plant-based? Swap beef for black beans and use vegetable broth instead. You can still keep it creamy with coconut or cashew cream. 🌱
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep it and then store it in the crockpot until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to add the cream and cheddar towards the end.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, just let it cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge and reheat when you’re craving it again!
How can I thicken the soup?
If you like a thicker soup, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it in during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot, then add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Pour in the broth along with thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything’s tender.
- In the last 20 minutes, stir in cream, cheese, and milk. If you like it thicker, add the cornstarch mixture now.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese.
