Hamburger and Leek Soup

I am never one to follow a recipe and the majority of the stuff I cook are things that I just put together at the last minute.  I took a nap and feel awake (and hungry) and remembered I have some leeks I need to get used up before they go bad (cannot stand wasting stuff - in the words of Sweet Brown, ain't nobody got time for that)

I was going to make Potato and Leek soup with these but I honestly did not feel like peeling and cutting a bunch of potatoes this late so I decided to try this variation.  This is a very hearty soup, I am not really into the pureed to death varieties so I like to leave my leeks nice and chunky.

1 Lb. Ground Beef
2 large leeks, roughly chopped and washed
1 can sliced carrots (didn't have fresh on hand)
1 carton chicken broth
2 1/2 glasses of water (I don't use precise measurements)
1 16oz package of Potato Gnocchi
Salt and Pepper to taste

I started out by cutting my leeks and washing them.. Once they are cut I put them in a large container and filled it with cold water and swish everything around and let it sit for about five minutes then drain everything in a colander.. the absolute easiest no fuss way to clean a leek.

Get a dutch oven or stock pot and brown your ground beef, this is when I add salt and pepper before the meat is fully cooked.  Once browned, drain off the excess fat and return to the pot.

Add in your leeks and can of carrots (or fresh if you have them) and cover and let cook down for maybe 10 minutes until the leeks have had time to cook down.

Add your carton of chicken broth and your water (like I stated above I am very no frills and do not ever really measure so I did about 2 1/2 glasses of water.. you can adjust it according to your preferences)
Cover your pot and allow that to cook for about 30-45 minutes.. I am a huge fan of cooking soups for hours so the flavors really develop, but I unfortunately do not have time for that right now.

measuring, smeasuring.. who needs it!

After the flavors have had a chance to develop go ahead and add your package of gnocchi and allow that to cook until tender, usually about 8-10 minutes.. the gnocchi will float to the top when done.

Taste your creation and see if it needs any more seasonings, if it does, go ahead and add them now.

To be extra luxurious go ahead and add in about a cup or so of half and half and turn the heat off.. it gives the soup a nice silky texture that is oh so delicious!  Enjoy!