1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Transfer the browned beef mixture to a crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on Low:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, add the cornstarch mixture and stir well. Continue to cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.