Comforting Crockpot Potato & Beef Soup

Comforting Crockpot Potato & Beef Soup
A hearty, slow-cooked classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This rich and filling soup combines tender beef, soft potatoes, and savory broth for pure comfort in a bowl.
🛒 Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or stew beef for chunkier texture)
4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tbsp flour or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
👩‍🍳 Instructions
Brown the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
Load the crockpot
Add beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, broth, and water to the slow cooker.
Season & cook
Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
Optional creamy finish
For thicker soup: Mix flour or cornstarch with a little cold water, stir in during the last 30 minutes.
For creamy version: Stir in milk/cream and cheese during the last 20–30 minutes.
Serve warm
Garnish with extra cheese, chopped parsley, or crusty bread on the side.
⭐ Tips
Add frozen corn or green beans for extra veggies.
Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a flavor twist.
Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Would you like a spicy version or a lighter, low-calorie version of this soup?