Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until the onions are translucent and the beef is fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
In the crockpot, combine the browned beef mixture, diced potatoes, beef broth, salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir to mix everything evenly.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing all the ingredients to meld together and cook thoroughly.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk and heavy cream to add richness to the soup. If you prefer a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes in the pot and mix well.
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. For an extra touch, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious dish!