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#### Instructions:
1. **Brown the Ground Beef**: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your Crockpot.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: While the beef is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Add them to the Crockpot, along with the diced onion and minced garlic. These vegetables will add flavor and heartiness to the soup.
3. **Add Broth and Seasonings**: Pour the beef broth into the Crockpot, making sure the ingredients are well covered. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.
4. **Cook in the Crockpot**: Cover the Crockpot and cook the soup on **low for 6-7 hours** or on **high for 3-4 hours**. The potatoes should become tender and the flavors should meld together nicely.
5. **Finish the Soup**: Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Continue to cook for another 30 minutes to let the soup thicken and the cheese melt, making the soup extra creamy.
6. **Serve**: Once the soup is finished, give it a final stir and taste for seasoning. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers on the side. Garnish with extra cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.
### Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
– **Add Extra Vegetables**: If you want to bulk up the soup with more veggies, consider adding carrots, celery, or even corn. These additions will enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
– **Thicken the Soup**: If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes directly in the Crockpot, or transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend it until smooth before returning it to the pot.
– **Use Ground Turkey or Chicken**: For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will still give you that hearty protein but with fewer calories.
– **Top with Croutons or Bacon**: For an extra touch of flavor and texture, top your soup with crispy croutons, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
### Why Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a Must-Try
This soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. The creamy base, tender potatoes, and savory hamburger meat come together to create a dish that’s filling, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a fantastic option.
The best part? You can set it and forget it, letting the Crockpot do all the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home. So, if you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, this soup is a must-try!
**Give it a go and let the creamy goodness of this soup warm you from the inside out!**
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