Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Made In the Crockpot
Looking for an easy, comforting dish to warm you up? Try this creamy potato and hamburger soup recipe, made effortlessly in the crockpot! This soup is perfect for busy days, blending ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich cheese into a warm, satisfying meal. Ideal for chilly weather, it’s a must-try for family meals, meal prepping, or weeknight dinners.
Why Crockpot Soups Are So Popular
The creamy texture of crockpot soups makes them a favorite comfort food, especially in fall and winter. Slow cooking brings out the flavors in each ingredient, giving dishes like potato soup and hamburger soup an irresistibly rich taste. With the convenience of a crockpot, you get all-day-simmered flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Each ingredient brings unique flavors and textures, making this a hearty potato and beef soup you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground Beef: Adds savory richness and protein. Choose lean beef for a heartier flavor with less grease.
- White Onion: Adds sweetness, enhancing the soup’s depth.
- Garlic: Brings an aromatic warmth to balance the richness.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful base that ties the ingredients together, making each bite satisfying.
- Russet Potatoes: Their high starch content naturally thickens the soup while delivering a creamy texture.
- Frozen Vegetables: A mix of carrots, peas, and corn provides color, texture, and nutrients.
- Herbs (Basil, Parsley): Adds herbal notes to balance the creamy richness.
- Milk & Cornstarch: This duo creates a silky, creamy consistency.
- Velveeta Cheese: The smooth finish that ties everything together with a mild cheese flavor.
1. Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
To maximize flavor, brown the ground beef in a skillet with diced onions. This initial step caramelizes the meat, enriching the soup. Once browned, drain excess fat for a cleaner, less greasy texture.
2. Add Garlic for Extra Flavor
Once the beef is browned, add minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant, which releases its essential oils for a robust flavor without bitterness.
3. Transfer to the Crockpot
Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to the crockpot. This slow-cooking method lets the flavors develop over time, ideal for tenderizing the potatoes.
4. Add Potatoes, Broth, and Vegetables
- Dice 6 cups of russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth for a rich, savory base.
- Add 2 cups of frozen vegetable mix for a boost of nutrients and color.
5. Season with Herbs
Add 3 teaspoons of dried basil and 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes for subtle, earthy flavors that meld beautifully during slow cooking.
6. Choose Your Crockpot Setting
- Low: 6-8 hours for the deepest flavor.
- High: 3-4 hours for a faster option.
7. Thicken the Soup with Cornstarch and Milk
In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 ½ cups of milk. Slowly stir into the crockpot, allowing the soup to thicken over the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
8. Add Velveeta Cheese for Creaminess
Cube 8 ounces of Velveeta cheese and stir into the soup. It melts seamlessly, giving the soup its creamy finish.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits.
- Sides: Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Variations:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach for more texture.
- Make it vegetarian by using plant-based protein and vegetable broth.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute with almond or coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Let cool, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For quicker reheating, use the microwave on low power to avoid curdling.
Nutritional Benefits of Potato and Hamburger Soup
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving.
- Protein: 20-25g, thanks to the ground beef.
- Potatoes: Complex carbs and fiber for energy.
- Added vegetables: Fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants for overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use cheddar instead of Velveeta? Yes, cheddar adds a sharper taste.
- How can I make this gluten-free? Ensure your broth and cornstarch are gluten-free.
- What’s a good stovetop method? Simmer on low for 30-40 minutes after browning the beef.
Conclusion
This creamy potato and hamburger crockpot soup recipe is an easy, comforting meal you’ll want to make all season long. With just a few simple ingredients and a crockpot, you’ll have a rich, creamy soup ready to enjoy with family and friends. Perfect for meal-prepping, it’s also versatile enough for personal twists and dietary preferences. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort!
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Made In the Crockpot
Equipment
- Crockpot (slow cooker, 6-quart capacity or larger)
- Large skillet
- Stirring spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cups potatoes peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth if preferred
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to the Crockpot.
- Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Add diced potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, beef broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to the Crockpot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Step 3: Cook the Soup
- For Slow Cooking: Set the Crockpot on Low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on High for 3-4 hours, until potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with green onions or crumbled bacon for added flavor. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Video
Notes
- Use Sweet Potatoes: For a twist, replace half the potatoes with sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Add Extra Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a boost of greens.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.