Name: Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-482589H49M49S
Total time: PT-482589H49M49S
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 large carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken or beef broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Nothing warms you up like a hearty, creamy soup on a cold day. This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect comfort food. It combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a blend of flavorful vegetables, all cooked low and slow to perfection. The richness of the heavy cream and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese elevate the dish, making it incredibly indulgent yet satisfying. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy meal at home, this soup is not only easy to prepare, but it also fills the kitchen with delicious aromas as it cooks throughout the day.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
3 large carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken or beef broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the soup light. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté until the onions turn translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. The mixture of garlic and onion will add a delicious base flavor to the soup.

Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it to the crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. These vegetables will become tender during cooking, making the soup hearty and flavorful. The potatoes will also help thicken the soup, giving it a creamy texture even before the dairy is added.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 4 cups of chicken or beef broth over the beef and vegetables. Either broth works, but beef broth will provide a deeper flavor, while chicken broth will lend a lighter taste. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together while the potatoes and vegetables soften. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will still give you a delicious result, but for the richest flavors, slow cooking on low is recommended.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to add the dairy. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. The combination of cream and cheese will create a rich, velvety texture. If you prefer your soup on the thicker side, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, and then stir it into the soup. Continue to cook the soup on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has reached your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese. The parsley adds a fresh, herby note to the rich soup, while the extra cheddar gives a cheesy finish to each bite. Serve with crusty bread or rolls for dipping, turning this comforting soup into a complete and satisfying meal.

Variation

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
Bacon Add-In: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, you can sauté and add cooked, crispy bacon to the soup at the end.
Spicy Twist: For a spicier version, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth.
Loaded Potato Soup: Add toppings like sour cream, green onions, and extra cheese for a loaded potato soup experience.

Cooking Note

For the best results, cook the soup on low for a full 6-8 hours to let the flavors meld together, resulting in a deeply flavorful broth and tender vegetables. If you’re using the cornstarch mixture to thicken the soup, make sure to add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This ensures the soup thickens without becoming too heavy or pasty.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Side Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, a grilled cheese sandwich pairs perfectly with this creamy soup.

Tips

Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese and cream.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup before adding the dairy. Thaw and add the cream, milk, and cheese when reheating for best results.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue cooking uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

6-8 hours (on Low) / 3-4 hours (on High)

Total Time:

Up to 8 hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 30g

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You could also use ground lamb or sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 15 minutes of cooking. You can also blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese and cream.

Q: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Q: How long does the soup last in the fridge?
A: This soup will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it without the dairy, and add the cream and cheese upon reheating.

Q: Can I skip the cheese and cream for a lighter version?
A: Yes, you can omit the cheese and cream for a lighter broth-based soup, but it will change the texture. You can also use light cream or half-and-half for a reduced-fat version.

Conclusion

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. The slow-cooked combination of tender ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy broth, makes this soup an ideal choice for busy days when you want a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for a cozy night in, this soup is sure to satisfy. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste while keeping preparation simple and stress-free. So grab your crockpot and enjoy a bowl of this creamy, delicious goodness!