Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the soup light. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté until the onions turn translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. The mixture of garlic and onion will add a delicious base flavor to the soup.

Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it to the crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. These vegetables will become tender during cooking, making the soup hearty and flavorful. The potatoes will also help thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture even before the dairy is added.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 4 cups of chicken or beef broth over the beef and vegetables. Either broth works, but beef broth will provide a deeper flavor, while chicken broth will lend a lighter taste. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together while the potatoes and vegetables soften. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will still give you a delicious result, but for the richest flavors, slow cooking on low is recommended.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to add the dairy. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. The combination of cream and cheese will create a rich, velvety texture. If you prefer your soup on the thicker side, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, and then stir it into the soup. Continue to cook the soup on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has reached your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese. The parsley adds a fresh, herby note to the rich soup, while the extra cheddar gives a cheesy finish to each bite. Serve with crusty bread or rolls for dipping, turning this comforting soup into a complete and satisfying meal.