Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

This Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for gathering family and friends around the table. With its rich, creamy texture and the delightful combination of tender potatoes, ground beef, and fresh vegetables, this soup is sure to become a favorite. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or chilly days when you crave something comforting. The slow cooking method allows all flavors to meld beautifully, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: Simply brown the beef, add ingredients to the crockpot, and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Rich in flavor: The combination of seasonings and creamy cheese creates a deliciously hearty broth.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or toppings for a unique twist every time.
• Comforting and filling: This soup is packed with nutrients from the vegetables and protein from the beef, making it a complete meal.
• Perfect for leftovers: It reheats well and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for easy, hands-off cooking; simply set it and forget it while the flavors develop over time.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables to create uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 3 large carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional)

For Garnishing

• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish

How to Make Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
• Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
• Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan; cook until onions are translucent.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

• Transfer the browned beef mixture into your slow cooker.
• Add diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the crockpot.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

• Pour in chicken or beef broth over the mixture in your crockpot.
• Sprinkle in dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

• Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
• Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until all vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

• In the last 20 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.
• If desired, add cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the soup.

Step 6: Serve Hot

• Ladle into bowls while hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra shredded cheese as desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!

How to Serve Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

Serving this delicious Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is easy and can be tailored to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or at a gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy soup nicely.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich broth beautifully.
• Garlic bread: For an extra kick, serve alongside garlic bread, providing a savory contrast to the creamy soup.

Add Extra Cheese

• Shredded cheddar cheese: Top each bowl with additional shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy experience.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds depth and a hint of nuttiness to the dish.

How to Perfect Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

To ensure your Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef will elevate the flavors of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Slow cook for best results: Allowing the soup to cook low and slow helps develop deeper flavors. Aim for at least 6 hours on low.
• Thicken if desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, add cornstarch mixed with water during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like crispy onions or croutons for added texture and flavor.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

Complement your hearty soup with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings something special to your meal.

1. Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a savory side that pairs well with the soup.
3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup and is easy to prepare.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and herbs make a filling accompaniment that balances the creamy texture of the soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the potato-based soup while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in a less flavorful soup. Always brown the meat first to enhance its flavor.
• Not using enough seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Be generous with herbs and spices like thyme, parsley, and paprika for a more robust taste.
• Adding dairy too early: If you add cream and cheese too soon, they might curdle during cooking. Incorporate them during the last 20 minutes for a smooth texture.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting potatoes and carrots into uneven sizes can cause some pieces to be overcooked while others remain hard. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Overfilling the crockpot: A crowded crockpot can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate and ingredients to cook properly.
• Not tasting before serving: Skipping this step can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave some space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in increments of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup.

How long does it take to cook Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup?

Cooking time varies depending on your setting. On low, it takes about 6-8 hours, while high will take around 3-4 hours.

Can I use other types of meat in this soup?

Yes! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute turkey or even ground lamb for different flavors.

Is there a vegetarian option for Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup?

Absolutely! You can replace the meat with additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

What should I serve with my soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights!