This looks like a Cheesy Slow Cooker Hamburger and Potato Soup, a creamy, hearty, and comforting dish perfect for cold days! Here’s how to make it:
📝 Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
🛠️ Instructions (Construction):
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Add the diced potatoes, cooked beef mixture, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings (paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes).
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Add dairy and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the soup turns creamy.
- Finish with bacon & garnish: Stir in cooked bacon (if using). Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and extra cheese.
🔀 Variations:
- Make it spicy: Use pepper jack cheese and add extra diced jalapeños.
- Low-carb version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or radishes.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace beef with lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Creamier option: Blend a portion of the soup for a thicker texture.
- Cheese swap: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda instead of cheddar.
💡 Tips for the Best Soup:
✔️ Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture.
✔️ For extra creaminess, stir in 4 oz cream cheese at the end.
✔️ Don’t overcook—if using diced potatoes, check for doneness around 5-6 hours.
✔️ Storing & reheating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly over low heat.
✔️ Thicker soup: Add 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with water if you prefer a thicker consistency.
This Cheesy Hamburger & Potato Soup is a crowd-pleaser! Would you like any modifications or extra suggestions? 😊