Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Meal

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a rich, satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful broth. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting with minimal effort. By using a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together over time, resulting in a warm and delicious soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This soup is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and filling. The ground beef adds richness and protein, while the potatoes provide a creamy texture as they cook and break down in the broth. It’s ideal for cold weather, and it’s also a budget-friendly meal that makes great leftovers. Plus, using the crockpot allows you to set it and forget it, making dinner stress-free.

Ingredients: A Simple, Hearty Combination

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy potato and hamburger soup:

Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef for hearty flavor.
Potatoes: 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, to add creaminess and texture.
Onion: 1 large onion, diced, for sweetness and depth.
Carrots: 2-3 medium carrots, sliced or diced, for natural sweetness.
Celery: 2 stalks, chopped, for flavor and crunch.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for added flavor.
Beef Broth: 4 cups of beef broth to create the soup base.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup for a rich, creamy texture.
Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the soup.
Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing and added richness.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup for topping (optional).
Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional).

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Brown the Ground Beef:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, and transfer the beef to the crockpot.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add this mixture to the crockpot along with the cooked beef.

Add the Potatoes and Broth:

Add the diced potatoes to the crockpot, followed by the beef broth. Stir to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook in the Crockpot:

Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.

Thicken the Soup:

About 30 minutes before serving, in a small bowl, whisk the flour with the heavy cream until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it, and continue cooking on Low for another 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve:

Once the soup has thickened, give it a final stir, and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Variations and Tips

Cheeseburger Twist: Add 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the soup toward the end of cooking for a cheeseburger-inspired flavor.
Add Bacon: For a richer taste, cook and crumble bacon and sprinkle it on top of the soup before serving.
Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables like corn, peas, or mushrooms to make the soup heartier.
Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher before stirring in the heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy potato and hamburger soup pairs perfectly with:

Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Side Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Toppings: Garnish with shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of broth or water if it has thickened during storage.

Conclusion: A Creamy, Hearty Delight

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy broth creates a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, this soup is perfect for busy days when you want something wholesome and filling. Enjoy it with a side of bread or salad, and savor every rich, creamy bite!