Introduction
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavors like creamy potatoes and savory hamburger. The Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect balance between rich, creamy textures and savory meatiness. It’s an easy, all-in-one meal that’s great for busy
days or cozy evenings. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare this delicious dish without hovering over the stove all day. Let’s dive into the story behind this delicious meal and explore how you can make it your own!
Origin and Cultural Significance
This creamy potato and hamburger soup has deep roots in American comfort food culture. It’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations, offering a taste of nostalgia. Ground beef-based soups became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century when meat was affordable and easy to cook in various forms. The addition of potatoes and vegetables made these soups hearty, budget-friendly, and filling. Soups like these were staples in households where practicality met the need for nutritious, belly-warming meals.
Ingredients Quantity
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup:
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 cup Onion, chopped
- 1 cup Carrot, diced
- 1 cup Potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup Green pepper or Celery (optional), chopped
- 1 cup Tomato juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Seasoned salt
- 4 cups Milk (divided)
- 1/3 cup Flour
These simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable, rich soup that satisfies both adults and kids alike.
Optional Additions
The beauty of this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is its versatility. Here are a few optional additions to consider if you want to customize the recipe:
- Cheese: Adding shredded cheddar or Parmesan can enhance the creaminess.
- Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty bite that pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can bring a burst of flavor to the dish.
- Corn: For a bit of sweetness and texture, adding a cup of corn kernels can liven up the soup.
- Garlic: A clove or two of minced garlic can intensify the savory flavor.
Feel free to experiment with these additions based on your taste preferences.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup requires some basic kitchen tips that can elevate your dish:
- Brown the Beef Well: Take your time to thoroughly brown the ground beef. This helps to lock in flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure your potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables are cut evenly for consistent cooking and texture.
- Use Full-Fat Milk: If you want extra creaminess, full-fat milk or even half-and-half can make the soup richer. Avoid skim milk as it can make the soup too thin.
- Stir Frequently: Once you add the milk and flour mixture, stir frequently to avoid curdling or lumps.
- Low and Slow is Key: Cooking this soup on a low setting in your crockpot for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Instructions
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step instructions on how to make this hearty and comforting soup:
- Melt the Butter and Brown the Meat: Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and brown it until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Cook the Onion: Add 1 cup of chopped onions to the browned beef and cook until the onions become transparent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Transfer to the Crockpot: Place the browned beef and onions into your crockpot. Add the diced carrots, potatoes, and optional vegetables (green peppers or celery). Stir everything together.
- Add Tomato Juice and Seasonings: Pour in 1 cup of tomato juice, and sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt over the mixture. Stir well.
- Cook on Low Heat: Cover your crockpot and cook the mixture on low heat for about 4-6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Milk and Flour Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine 1/3 cup of flour with 1 cup of milk. Whisk together until the flour is fully dissolved without any lumps.
- Thicken the Soup: After the vegetables are cooked, pour the milk and flour mixture into the crockpot and stir. Turn the heat to high and let the soup come to a low boil for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Add the Remaining Milk: Gradually stir in the remaining 3 cups of milk. Stir frequently but do not allow the soup to come to a full boil. Let it heat through until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is thickened and creamy, it’s ready to serve. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Description
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a luscious combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy broth that ties everything together. The balance between the richness of the soup and the heartiness of the vegetables creates a meal that’s satisfying without being overly indulgent.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, giving every spoonful a depth of taste that’s both comforting and flavorful. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or served with a side of crusty bread, this soup is a guaranteed hit.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of what we eat is important, and this soup is no exception. While the exact nutritional breakdown will depend on the specific brands and quantities you use, here’s a general estimate per serving:
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 18-22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 18-22 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
- Calcium: 20% of daily value
This creamy potato and hamburger soup is rich in protein and provides a decent amount of calcium, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and warmth in a bowl. Easy to prepare and full of flavors, it offers everything from protein-packed ground beef to the smooth richness of potatoes and milk. Whether you’re feeding a family on a cold winter night or looking for a meal that will keep you satisfied throughout the week, this soup is a versatile go-to. Plus, the customizable ingredients make it an excellent dish for experimentation and personal flair.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this soup can be rich and hearty, there are ways to make it even more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. For example, using lean ground beef or even substituting with ground turkey can reduce the fat content. Opting for low-fat milk or dairy alternatives like almond milk can also lighten up the dish. Incorporating more vegetables or using whole wheat flour are great options for boosting fiber content. The key is to find a balance between indulgence and nourishment, making this dish something you can enjoy often.