Absolutely! Here’s a full, detailed guide to making **Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**, covering everything from its origin to healthful indulgence tips:
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## **Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**
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### **Introduction and Origin**
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the epitome of hearty, comforting food. Combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup has become a family favorite across North America. Born from practical, budget-friendly ingredients and the rise of slow cooking, it’s perfect for busy households and cold-weather meals. Its roots are in home kitchens where nourishment and comfort go hand in hand.
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### **Cultural Significance**
This soup reflects the ingenuity of home cooks, especially in rural and working-class communities. Ground beef, a widely accessible protein, pairs with pantry staples like potatoes, broth, and cheese to create a filling meal. The slow cooker makes it even more accessible, symbolizing the modern value of convenience without sacrificing homemade warmth. It’s a go-to for cozy weeknight dinners, potlucks, and make-ahead meals.
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### **Ingredients & Quantity**
**Main Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
– 4–5 cups diced potatoes (about 5 medium potatoes)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
– 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
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### **Optional Additions**
– 1–2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– A pinch of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat
– 1/2 tsp thyme or rosemary for herbal depth
– Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version
– Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky kick
– Top with green onions or sour cream before serving
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### **Tips for Success**
– Brown the ground beef before adding to the crockpot to enhance flavor and texture.
– Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds—they hold their shape better than russets.
– Add cheese at the end and stir gently to prevent clumping or curdling.
– If you like thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
– Don’t overcook after adding milk and cheese—low and slow is key to keeping the soup creamy, not curdled.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Brown the Meat:**
In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. **Load the Crockpot:**
Add diced potatoes, cooked beef mixture, broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. **Cook:**
Cover and cook on **low** for 6–7 hours or **high** for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
4. **Make It Creamy:**
About 30 minutes before serving, add milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheese. Stir gently.
Optional: melt butter, mix with flour, and stir into the soup for added thickness.
5. **Finish & Serve:**
Cook on low for an additional 20–30 minutes. Stir again, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
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### **Description**
This soup is rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting. Each bite brings together soft, starchy potatoes with juicy, flavorful beef and a velvety cheese-laden broth. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a bowl of home.
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### **Nutritional Information** *(Approx. per 1.5-cup serving – based on 6 servings):*
– **Calories:** 450
– **Fat:** 28g
– **Saturated Fat:** 13g
– **Carbohydrates:** 28g
– **Sugar:** 4g
– **Protein:** 23g
– **Fiber:** 3g
– **Sodium:** 620mg
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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate feel-good meal: easy to make, deliciously rich, and satisfying enough to be a full dinner. It’s perfect for meal prepping, freezing for later, or serving a crowd. If you’re craving something warm, filling, and family-friendly, this is your go-to recipe.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
To enjoy this indulgent soup with a healthier twist:
– Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey
– Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or half-and-half
– Reduce cheese by half and add more veggies
– Use low-sodium broth and season with herbs to reduce salt
Balanced indulgence means savoring comforting meals while still nourishing your body—this soup lets you do just that.
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