Description of this recipe
Creamy Potato & Beef Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that marries the rich flavors of ground beef with the creamy texture of potatoes and cheese. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its blend of vegetables, spices, and creamy goodness, it promises to warm your soul and fill your belly.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it combines simplicity with flavor. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare, especially if you use a slow cooker. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. This soup is not only a meal but also a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Introduction
As the temperatures drop and the leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. This Creamy Potato & Beef Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that embodies the essence of autumn and winter meals. With its hearty ingredients and creamy consistency, it is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you are enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting friends for dinner, this soup is the perfect companion.
Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create this delicious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef 🍖
- 1 large onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 4 large potatoes, peeled & diced 🥔
- 3 large carrots, sliced 🥕
- 2 celery stalks, sliced 🌿
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth 🍲
- 1 tsp dried thyme 🌱
- 1 tsp dried parsley 🌿
- 1 tsp paprika 🌶
- Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1 cup milk 🥛
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening) 🌾
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 🌿
- Extra shredded cheddar (for garnish) 🧀
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup. 🍖🧅🧄
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Transfer the beef mixture into your crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery. These vegetables will add texture and nutrition to the soup, making it a wholesome meal. 🥔🥕🌿
Step 3: Add Broth & Seasoning
Pour in the broth and sprinkle with dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This is where the soup begins to take on its rich flavor profile. 🍲🌿
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are soft and tender. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply satisfying soup. ⏲🥕🥔
Step 5: Cream & Cheese Time
Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix in the cornstarch slurry at this stage. Let it cook on Low for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, and the soup is rich and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that luxurious texture we all love. 🧀🥛
Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top with extra cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite crusty bread for an extra cozy meal. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can also be refrigerated for leftovers. 🍞🌿🧀
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Potato & Beef Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light dessert like apple pie or chocolate mousse.
Tips:
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as corn, peas, or bell peppers based on your preferences.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Creamy Potato & Beef Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of hearty ingredients ensures that it will satisfy even the heartiest appetites. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and treat yourself to a bowl of this delightful soup. You won’t regret it!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option. It will still yield a delicious soup! - What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. - Can I make this soup in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can simmer the soup on the stove for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender. - How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it entirely, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. - Is it possible to add beans to this recipe?
Yes! Adding beans like kidney beans or black beans can enhance the protein content and add more texture to the soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
