Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cold winter days. Made with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is a family favorite that’s easy to throw together in the slow cooker. The combination of flavors is classic comfort food at its best, and the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a soup that’s full of depth and character. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, filling meal that everyone will love. Whether you are preparing dinner for your family or need a dish to bring to a potluck, this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup will be a go-to recipe that you’ll return to time and again.
The best part about this recipe is that it requires minimal prep work and uses ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Ground beef adds heartiness to the soup, while the potatoes provide the perfect texture to make it satisfying without being overly heavy. The rich, creamy broth ties it all together for a mouthwatering result that’s comforting and nostalgic. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, making your kitchen smell amazing all day long as the flavors come together to create a soup that’s better than any store-bought version.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot. Browning the meat beforehand adds a rich, deep flavor to the soup that enhances the overall taste.
- Add the Vegetables and Seasoning: Add the diced potatoes, onion, minced garlic, beef broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the crockpot. If you’re using shredded carrots, add them as well. The combination of these vegetables and seasonings creates a hearty base that will complement the creaminess of the soup later on.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop fully and gives the potatoes a soft, comforting texture that makes this soup so enjoyable.
- Add Cream and Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. If you’d like a thicker soup, mix the flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and stir it into the soup. Cover and continue cooking for another 30 minutes. The heavy cream and cheese add a velvety texture and richness that make this soup extra indulgent.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy soup! The fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Tips for Perfect Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Use Waxy Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better during cooking and provide a creamier texture to the soup. Starchy potatoes, such as Russets, can break down too much and make the soup overly thick.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: When browning the ground beef, cook it just until no pink remains. Overcooking can make the beef tough and reduce its flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika based on your taste preferences. Adding a little extra seasoning towards the end of cooking can enhance the overall flavor.
- Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition: This soup is very versatile. You can add diced bell peppers, corn, celery, or other vegetables you have on hand to boost the nutritional value and add more color and texture to the soup.
Recipe Variations
- Bacon Potato Hamburger Soup: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the soup for extra smoky flavor. Bacon adds another layer of savoriness that pairs well with the creamy, cheesy broth.
- Vegetable-Packed Soup: Add diced celery, bell pepper, peas, or even corn to the crockpot for additional veggies. These vegetables bring a vibrant color and added texture to the soup.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a bay leaf to infuse the soup with earthy flavors that complement the creamy broth.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative to ground beef in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. Be sure to adjust the seasoning as ground turkey is milder in flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often improve after a day, making leftovers even more delicious.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little extra cream or broth if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve this creamy potato & hamburger soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: Pair the soup with a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the creamy broth.
- Toppings: Customize each bowl with different toppings like shredded cheese, chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
- Biscuits: Serve with warm biscuits to complete the comforting, home-cooked meal experience. The flakiness of the biscuits pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a hearty, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any time you need a comforting meal. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and a creamy broth makes this soup irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for busy days, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile and easily adaptable to your tastes. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible, while the rich flavors make it feel special. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of cozy comfort that will warm you from the inside out. This is a dish that invites you to relax, savor, and share with loved ones, making it a true classic that you’ll want to make again and again.