Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

This Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and gatherings. It offers a warm, creamy broth filled with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a tailgate party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this hearty soup will surely impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and comforting texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss in the ingredients and let the crockpot do the work while you relax or focus on other tasks.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and melted cheddar cheese creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a filling dinner, serve it at gatherings, or even pack it for lunch.
• Comforting Warmth: This soup is perfect for chilly days, warming you from the inside out.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow-cooking the soup to develop deep flavors with minimal effort.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and celery.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.

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

Optional Thickening Agent

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Garnishes

• 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

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Transfer beef mixture to crockpot. Add potatoes, carrots, and celery.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in broth. Add seasonings including 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 cream, cheese, and milk. If desired, add cornstarch mixture to thicken.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese. Enjoy this comforting bowl of Wisconsin-style goodness!

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

This creamy soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can enhance your dining experience with a variety of serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to dip into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal with warm, buttery garlic bread for added flavor.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the creamy soup.
• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette adds lightness to your meal.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Offer extra shredded cheddar cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy bite.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a nutty touch.

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

To make your soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Every palate is different, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: This allows you to control the saltiness of the dish while still providing rich flavor.
• Let It Simmer Longer: If time allows, simmering on low for 8 hours develops deeper flavors compared to a quicker cook time.
• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding cream and cheese.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like peas or corn for added sweetness and nutrition.

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

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies add an exciting element to the table.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts offer a nice crunch and slightly bitter contrast to the rich soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins serve as a delightful addition, perfect for dipping into the soup.
5. Caprese Skewers: Bright caprese skewers made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide freshness and brightness.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are great for those who love potatoes in any form.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown the meat first for a richer taste.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid can result in a thick, dry soup. Make sure to use the full amount of broth for the best consistency.
• Adding dairy too early: Introducing cream and cheese too soon can cause them to curdle. Wait until the final 20 minutes of cooking before adding these ingredients.
• Overcooking vegetables: If you cook the soup for too long, vegetables can become mushy. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender yet firm veggies.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasoning throughout cooking is key. Don’t forget to season your soup based on your taste preferences.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese may lead to a grainy texture in your soup. Opt for block cheese that you shred yourself for a creamy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before refrigerating.

Freezing Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe while keeping it leaner.

How do I make Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup vegetarian?

You can omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables or substitute with plant-based ground meat alternatives.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they become tender and creamy when cooked. Yukon Golds also work well for added flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include peas, corn, or any other veggies you enjoy for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I customize this soup?

You can adjust spices or add herbs like rosemary or basil according to your taste preferences. Also, consider adding different kinds of cheese for variation.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow storage instructions carefully.

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & chicken hamburger Soup is not just hearty but also versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or preparing it ahead of time, this recipe promises comfort and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious soup!