Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 large onion, diced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 5 cups Russet potatoes, peeled and chunked
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Italian seasonings, to taste
- Cajun seasonings, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Instructions:
- Brown Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with minced garlic and diced onion. Drain any excess grease.
- Transfer to Crockpot:
- Transfer the browned beef mixture to your crockpot.
- Add Broth and Vegetables:
- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the frozen mixed veggies and chunked Russet potatoes. Season the mixture with garlic powder, Italian seasonings, Cajun seasonings, and salt to your taste.
- Slow Cook:
- Cook on low for about 6 hours or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld.
- Whisk Milk and Cornstarch:
- In a bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until well combined.
- Stir into Soup:
- Stir the milk and cornstarch mixture into the soup, ensuring it’s well incorporated.
- Add Velveeta Cheese:
- Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the soup. Stir occasionally until the cheese is melted and the soup thickens. This may take about 1 hour.
- Final Touch:
- Adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or seasonings according to your taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the creamy potato and hamburger soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
- Enjoy!
- Serve this delicious and comforting soup with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Note:
- Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different frozen veggie combinations to suit your taste.
Here are some helpful tips to make your Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup even more delightful:
- Use Lean Ground Beef:
- Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. This ensures a lighter soup while retaining the rich meaty flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Consider sautéing the diced onions and minced garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This extra step enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
- Layer Seasonings:
- Layer your seasonings throughout the cooking process. Add a portion at the beginning and adjust near the end to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
- Fresh Herbs:
- Include fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a burst of freshness. Add them during the last hour of cooking for optimal flavor.
- Customize Veggies:
- Experiment with different vegetable combinations. You can add celery, bell peppers, or even spinach for additional color and nutrients.
- Variety of Potatoes:
- Mix different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, to add a variety of textures and flavors to the soup.
- Precook Potatoes:
- If you’re short on time, partially precook the potatoes on the stovetop before adding them to the crockpot. This can speed up the overall cooking process.
- Cajun Seasoning Adjustment:
- Cajun seasoning can vary in heat levels. Adjust the amount to your preference, especially if you prefer a milder or spicier soup.
- Cheese Variation:
- Experiment with different cheeses or a combination of cheeses for the final melt-in-your-mouth texture. Smoked gouda or sharp cheddar can add unique flavors.
- Season Milk and Cornstarch Mixture:
- Before adding the milk and cornstarch mixture, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. This ensures the final soup has a well-balanced flavor.
- Freshly Grated Cheese:
- If using a different cheese, consider using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties for a smoother and creamier texture.
- Garnish Creatively:
- Garnish each serving with creative toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with Bread:
- Pair the soup with freshly baked bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Adjust Soup Thickness:
- If you prefer a thicker or thinner soup, adjust the amount of milk and cornstarch accordingly. Add more for a thicker consistency or less for a lighter soup.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld and intensifies the overall taste.
Feel free to tailor these tips to your preferences and enjoy your delightful Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup!
Q: Can I freeze the Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup for later?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack are good alternatives. Adjust the quantity based on the cheese’s meltability and your preference for richness.
Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or include a pinch of cayenne pepper during the seasoning process. Adjust the spice level gradually to achieve your desired level of heat.
Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: Yes, you can use different types of potatoes based on your preference. Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes can provide a creamier texture, while russet potatoes offer a more starchy consistency. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: Can I cook this soup on high for a shorter time instead of low for 7 hours?
A: While the low setting allows for longer flavor development, you can cook the soup on high for a shorter time. Keep an eye on the potatoes’ tenderness and ensure the ground beef is fully cooked before adding the milk and cornstarch mixture.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Certainly! Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
Q: Can I prepare this soup on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simmer the soup on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: How can I make this soup creamier without adding more cheese?
A: To enhance creaminess without additional cheese, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for richness.
Feel free to use and customize these answers based on your preferences and any specific considerations you might have!
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup:
- Brown Beef Well:
- Ensure the ground beef is well-browned. This adds a rich flavor to the soup. Don’t rush the browning process; let it develop deep flavors.
- Sweat Onions and Garlic:
- Allow the diced onions and minced garlic to sweat in the skillet after browning the beef. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the soup.
- Season in Layers:
- Season the soup in layers, starting with seasoning the beef during browning and adding additional seasonings as you build the soup. This ensures a well-balanced flavor.
- Fresh Herbs at the End:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives during the last hour of cooking or just before serving for a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Control Cajun Seasoning:
- Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Start with a smaller amount and adjust gradually to reach the desired level of spiciness. Remember, you can always add more later.
- Cubed Velveeta for Smoothness:
- Cubing the Velveeta cheese allows it to melt smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy and luscious texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
- Thicken Gradually:
- When adding the milk and cornstarch mixture, pour it in gradually while stirring continuously. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, even consistency.
- Adjust Salt Towards the End:
- Taste and adjust the salt level towards the end of cooking. The flavors concentrate as the soup cooks, so it’s better to adjust seasoning when the soup is closer to completion.
- Experiment with Cheese:
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheeses or combining a couple for a unique flavor profile. Smoked cheeses can add an extra layer of depth.
- Precook Potatoes for Time Efficiency:
- If you’re short on time, partially precook the potatoes on the stovetop before adding them to the crockpot. This helps speed up the overall cooking process.
- Add a Splash of Acid:
- A small splash of acid, such as a squeeze of lemon juice, can brighten the flavors of the soup and balance the richness of the cheese.
- Let the Soup Rest:
- Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps the flavors meld and intensify.
- Serve with a Garnish:
- Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of shredded cheese for added visual appeal.
- Customize Vegetables:
- Customize the frozen mixed veggies by choosing a blend that complements your taste. Adding colorful vegetables can make the soup visually appealing.
- Create a Flavorful Base:
- Enhance the base flavor by using a combination of chicken and beef broth or incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
By incorporating these secrets, you’ll be on your way to creating a Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup that’s rich, flavorful, and absolutely perfect.