Hello, soup lovers! Welcome to another delicious recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and home. Today, we’re diving into a rich, Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup that’s perfect for those chilly nights or any time you crave a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of creamy, cheesy goodness that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned soup maker or just getting started, this crockpot meal will make dinnertime a breeze. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect marriage of hearty ingredients and creamy textures, resulting in a bowl of comfort food that feels like a warm hug. This soup is a twist on traditional hamburger soup, adding a velvety creaminess and a blend of cheddar cheese that takes it to another level. With tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, and a medley of vegetables like carrots and celery, each spoonful delivers a burst of flavor. This dish is ideal for family dinners, meal preps, or cozy weekend lunches, and it’s all made easy with the help of a trusty crockpot.
Whether you’re looking for a simple one-pot meal or something that will fill the house with savory aromas, this recipe hits the mark. You’ll also love how adaptable it is—make it your own with variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- 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)
Optional Substitutions:
- For dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream or milk alternative and dairy-free cheese.
- For a lighter version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream option.
- For gluten-free: Ensure the broth is gluten-free and omit the cornstarch or replace it with arrowroot powder.
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup – Step by Step
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 takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy soup.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
Prepare the Crockpot
- Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Spread them evenly over the top.
Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, ensuring all the vegetables are covered.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
Cook on Low
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes and vegetables are soft and tender.
- If you’re short on time, you can cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours.
Add Cream and Cheese
- Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the crockpot. Stir well and let the soup continue cooking on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
Serve
- Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Helpful Tips for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Use fresh ingredients: While frozen vegetables work in a pinch, using fresh potatoes, carrots, and celery adds a more robust flavor to the soup.
- For a richer flavor: Brown the beef thoroughly and let the onions caramelize slightly for added depth.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Skip the cornstarch: If you like a thinner soup, you can omit the cornstarch. The cheese and cream will still add plenty of thickness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Sear your beef: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot helps lock in flavors and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- Layer your ingredients: For even cooking, place heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Avoid over-stirring: Once you’ve added the cream and cheese, stir gently to avoid breaking down the tender potatoes.
- Use a crockpot liner: For easy cleanup, consider using a crockpot liner before starting your recipe.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast, which allows you to soak up the creamy broth. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade makes a refreshing complement to the savory richness of the soup. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider adding roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes as side dishes to round out the meal.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
This soup is rich in protein and essential vitamins from the vegetables, making it a comforting yet nourishing dish. It’s also a great source of calcium and healthy fats, thanks to the heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
Storage and Leftovers for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Storing leftover Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is easy, and it makes for a perfect meal-prep option. After the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, be aware that the cream-based soup may change in texture slightly after freezing. To minimize this, reheat slowly and stir frequently to bring back the creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also try ground sausage for a more robust flavor.
2. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
3. Can I make this soup without a crockpot?
Absolutely! You can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot. After browning the meat, add the vegetables and broth, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. How can I thicken the soup without cornstarch?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher directly in the crockpot. This will naturally thicken the broth without the need for cornstarch.
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Conclusion
Now that you have this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup recipe in hand, you’re ready to create a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for the week ahead, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture, savory beef, and tender vegetables all come together perfectly in the crockpot, making this dish not only easy but utterly satisfying. Try it out and let us know your favorite twists or additions to the recipe. Enjoy!
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Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup – Easy Recipe
Description
Hello, soup lovers! Welcome to another delicious recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and home. Today, we’re diving into a rich, Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup that’s perfect for those chilly nights or any time you crave a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of creamy, cheesy goodness that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned soup maker or just getting started, this crockpot meal will make dinnertime a breeze. Let’s get cooking!
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)
Optional Substitutions:
- For dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream or milk alternative and dairy-free cheese.
- For a lighter version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream option.
- For gluten-free: Ensure the broth is gluten-free and omit the cornstarch or replace it with arrowroot powder.
Instructions
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 takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy soup.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
Prepare the Crockpot
- Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Spread them evenly over the top.
Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, ensuring all the vegetables are covered.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
Cook on Low
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes and vegetables are soft and tender.
- If you’re short on time, you can cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours.
Add Cream and Cheese
- Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the crockpot. Stir well and let the soup continue cooking on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
Serve
- Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh ingredients: While frozen vegetables work in a pinch, using fresh potatoes, carrots, and celery adds a more robust flavor to the soup.
- For a richer flavor: Brown the beef thoroughly and let the onions caramelize slightly for added depth.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Skip the cornstarch: If you like a thinner soup, you can omit the cornstarch. The cheese and cream will still add plenty of thickness.
