If you are looking for a hearty, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender chunks of russet potatoes, savory browned hamburger, and colorful veggies, all simmered slowly in a rich and creamy broth. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, melding flavors beautifully while freeing you up for the rest of your day. Whether you want an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat, this soup delivers layers of flavor and a velvety texture that simply melts in your mouth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that build layers of taste, texture, and color in every spoonful. Each item plays a special role, from the tender potatoes to the savory ground beef, creating that classic comfort food appeal.
- 1 lb ground beef: Browning it first adds a deep, savory flavor that forms the base of your soup.
- 4 cups russet potatoes: Peeled and diced, these provide a hearty bite and creamy starchy goodness as they cook.
- 1 cup carrots: Diced carrots introduce a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 1 cup celery: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the soft potatoes and beef.
- 1 small onion: Chopped onion brings aromatic depth and sweetness to the broth.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Using low sodium lets you control the saltiness while giving a flavorful liquid foundation.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to your taste to balance and enhance all the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and spiciness without overpowering the soup.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: For a subtle, comforting garlicky undertone.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that rounds out the soup with a touch of earthiness and aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Whole or 2% milk creates the creamy texture that makes this soup so luscious.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Whisked into the milk, it thickens the soup into a rich, velvety consistency.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Stirring this in before serving adds an extra layer of cheesy richness that’s pure indulgence.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. This step builds flavor through caramelization, and draining the excess fat keeps the soup from getting greasy. Taking this extra minute upfront makes all the difference in your final taste.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beef to the Crockpot
Next, toss the browned beef into your crockpot along with diced russet potatoes, carrots, celery, and chopped onion. This combination ensures every spoonful has a perfect balance of tender veggies and savory meat.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth over the ingredients, then sprinkle in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir so the seasonings are evenly distributed. These herbs and spices subtly lift the flavors to a well-rounded profile.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover and cook the soup on low for 6 to 7 hours. This slow simmer lets the potatoes soften gently while infusing the broth with all the savory goodness from the beef and veggies. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes and carrots are tender and fragrant.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
About 30 minutes before serving, whisk the milk and all-purpose flour together in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture slowly into the crockpot. This step magically transforms the broth into a creamy, luxuriously thick soup that clings deliciously to your spoon.
Step 6: Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess (Optional)
For an indulgent finish, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. It melts into the hot soup, adding a rich, cheesy note that elevates this humble dish into something truly special.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness that brightens every bite. A dollop of sour cream or a handful of crispy bacon bits can also add delightful texture and tang.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls perfect for dunking. A simple green salad or steamed green beans offer a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching touch that’s also incredibly practical. For family gatherings, offer a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, or crushed crackers so everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, so you can savor that comforting flavor again without extra work.
Freezing
This Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving space for expansion. When stored properly, it keeps well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect freezer-friendly meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or heat directly on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating helps restore its creamy texture and prevents it from thickening too much.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that will still deliver plenty of flavor. Just brown it the same way and drain any excess fat before adding to the crockpot.
What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly while cooking, helping thicken the soup while still holding their shape for a creamy yet hearty texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat or extra beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll get a lovely savory soup that’s just as satisfying.
How do I avoid the soup becoming too thick after adding flour and milk?
Whisk the flour into the milk thoroughly before adding to the soup to prevent lumps. If the soup thickens too much, simply stir in a little extra broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this soup on the stove instead of a crockpot?
Definitely! Follow the same steps but simmer everything in a large pot on low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe is one of those soul-soothing dishes that everyone will love and ask for again. It’s easy to make, practical for busy days, and wonderfully satisfying with every creamy, flavorful bite. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
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Creamy Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy potato and hamburger soup is a comforting and hearty dish made effortlessly in the crockpot. Featuring tender russet potatoes, browned ground beef, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a seasoned chicken broth, it’s finished with a creamy milk and flour mixture to thicken the soup and optional cheddar cheese for extra richness. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this slow-cooked soup delivers rich flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (browned and drained)
- 4 cups russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Optional
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to prevent greasiness in the soup.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot and add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and chopped onion.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the broth and add creaminess.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Just before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if you desire a richer, cheesy flavor.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- To make the soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or corn in the last hour of cooking for additional texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the sodium content of your broth.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 2 months.
