Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Ingredients:

1½ pounds ground beef or pork

6 cups peeled diced russet potatoes

1½ cups milk

1 peeled diced white onion

1 minced garlic clove

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables

8 ounces Velveeta cheese in cubes

6 cups chicken broth

2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes

3 teaspoons dried basil

2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions:

Cook the beef and onion in a skillet until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.

Drain off and discard any grease, then transfer the beef mixture into a crockpot.

Fry the garlic in the same skillet until golden and then stir this into the beef mixture.

Also add the potatoes, vegetables, broth, parsley, and basil.

Cook for 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low.

If you don’t have a crockpot, you can also simmer this on the stove in a large pot with a lid until the potatoes are tender.

Whisk the milk and cornstarch together, then stir this into the soup along with the Velveeta.

Cover and cook until the Velveeta has melted, then serve the soup hot, perhaps with some warm crusty bread on the side.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef or pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

This can make the soup lower in fat while still providing protein.

Is it necessary to use Velveeta cheese, or can I use a different type of cheese?

While Velveeta gives the soup its characteristic creamy texture, you can use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or American cheese slices.

Keep in mind that different cheeses will result in slightly different flavors and textures.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen mixed vegetables?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, and it can enhance the flavor of the soup.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the potatoes and fresh vegetables are tender.

What can I substitute for cornstarch if I don’t have it on hand?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a thickening agent.

Mix it with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the soup until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.

When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra milk or broth to adjust the consistency, as soups can thicken upon cooling.

Can I use a different type of meat, like ground chicken or turkey, instead of beef or pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.

Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the soup may vary slightly.

How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

To make this soup vegetarian, you can use plant-based ground meat alternatives and replace the dairy milk and cheese with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese.

Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically be kept for 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.

Can I freeze this soup for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup for longer storage.

Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.

Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.