Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

This Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. The combination of tender potatoes, ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers away in the crockpot. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The addition of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a satisfyingly creamy texture that enhances each bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Perfect for Busy Nights: This soup cooks all day, making it ideal for those hectic schedules when you need a hearty meal ready at dinnertime.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making this soup even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, you’ll need some handy tools. Having the right equipment ensures that everything goes smoothly from prep to serving.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meat before adding it to the crockpot, enhancing flavor.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.

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)

For the Broth and Seasoning

• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 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 Garnish

• 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

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat. Then add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

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

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the broth along with dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until all vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

In the last 20 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If desired for thickening, add the cornstarch mixture at this time.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese before enjoying!

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

Serving Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it enjoyable for family or guests. Here’s how you can present this comforting dish in various ways.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Serve slices of garlic bread to enhance the flavors of the soup.

Topped with Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheddar Cheese – Add a generous handful of shredded cheese for extra richness.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp texture that complements the creamy soup.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad can balance the richness of the dish.

In Individual Bowls

• Personalized Servings – Serve in individual bowls to create an inviting atmosphere at the table.
• Soup Mugs – Use soup mugs for a cozy feel, perfect for casual gatherings.

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

To make your Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor – Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops richer flavors; consider cooking overnight if possible.
• Thicken as Desired – If you prefer a thicker soup, add cornstarch mixed with water during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Add Vegetables – Incorporate other vegetables such as peas or corn for added nutrition and variety.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery garlic knots are perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy soup.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and a slight bitterness that complements the richness of the soup.
3. Cheesy Quesadillas – Warm quesadillas filled with cheese provide a delicious contrast to the smooth texture of the soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans add heartiness to your meal while being visually appealing.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are easy to prepare and make a satisfying side that echoes the main ingredient in your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot for deeper taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient list for optimal results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting is crucial! Don’t wait until serving time to adjust seasonings; check flavors during cooking and modify as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of flavor. Use high-quality chicken or beef broth for a richer, more satisfying soup.
• Neglecting the final stirring: Forgetting to stir in cream and cheese at the end can lead to uneven richness. Make sure to mix well before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags and seal tightly.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a vegetarian version.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding diced bell peppers, corn, or fresh herbs like basil or dill for additional flavor profiles.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!