Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

This Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. With its rich, creamy broth and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for everything from family dinners to cozy gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy deep flavors without the hassle. Plus, it’s a delicious way to warm up on cold nights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Convenient Cooking: Just set it and forget it! The slow cooker makes this soup easy to prepare, letting you enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese creates a comforting taste that satisfies every palate.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or served alongside bread; this soup fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and beef, this soup will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or easy lunches.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors while requiring minimal effort.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the beef, which adds depth to the overall flavor of the soup before it goes into the slow cooker.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Vegetables

• 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 3 large carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)

Liquids & Seasonings

• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Elements

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup milk

Optional Thickener

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

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 Beef

Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot. Add diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in broth (chicken or beef) and add seasonings: thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

In the final 20 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If desired, add cornstarch mixture to thicken.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley and extra shredded cheese on top. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup!

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. This hearty soup is versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping. A rustic baguette or sourdough works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your meal, balancing the richness of the soup.

With Extra Cheese

• Offer additional shredded cheddar cheese on the side for those who love an extra cheesy finish.

Paired with Crackers

• Serve with assorted crackers for added texture. Choose whole grain or seasoned varieties for more flavor.

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

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making it more vibrant and tasty.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, add more cornstarch mixed with water during the final cooking phase.

• Experiment with Spices: Try adding other spices like rosemary or cayenne pepper for a unique twist that personalizes the dish.

• Mix in Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

• Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well and often tastes even better the next day!

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

Pairing side dishes with this creamy soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused bread complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add both flavor and nutrition to your meal.

4. Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread pairs nicely with savory soups, adding a delightful texture.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains and veggies offer a hearty addition that complements the soup’s flavors.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an extra potato element that many will enjoy alongside the soup.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: This classic comfort food makes an excellent dipper for the creamy soup, creating a nostalgic pairing.

8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with fresh veggies can bring brightness and balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can detract from the dish’s rich flavors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown it in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
• Not using enough seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Make sure to use adequate salt and spices, tasting as you go.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly can affect cooking times. Ensure that all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Adding dairy too early: Adding cream and cheese too soon can cause them to curdle. Wait until the last 20 minutes of cooking to stir them in.
• Overfilling the crockpot: Filling your crockpot too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended capacity for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every couple of minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still provide a hearty flavor.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth along with your favorite plant-based protein.

What can I replace heavy cream with?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a blend of half-and-half and non-dairy milk for a lighter option.

How long does this soup need to cook?

Cooking on low takes about 6-8 hours, while high settings require about 3-4 hours for perfect tenderness.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like peas or corn according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try!