Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Made in the Crockpot: A Comforting and Hearty Meal

When the temperatures drop, and you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal, there’s nothing quite like a creamy potato and hamburger soup made right in your crockpot. This dish is a perfect blend of rich, velvety textures and flavorful ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal, this slow-cooked soup offers comfort and ease, all in one delicious bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

One of the most appealing aspects of this creamy potato soup is its simplicity and the ease of preparation. The ingredients come together effortlessly, creating a meal that’s perfect for anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. But beyond its ease, this soup is packed with flavor, offering a balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy notes from the combination of Velveeta cheese, ground beef, and fresh herbs.

The Perfect Combination of Ingredients

This soup’s foundation is built on just a few key ingredients that contribute to both taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this soup so irresistible:

• Lean Ground Beef: Ground beef adds a savory richness to the soup, providing a hearty protein that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
• Russet Potatoes: The star ingredient, potatoes create a thick, comforting base. When cooked in the slow cooker, they break down beautifully, thickening the soup and adding a creamy texture.
• Velveeta Cheese: For that smooth, creamy finish, Velveeta adds both richness and a velvety consistency that brings the soup to life.
• Frozen Vegetables: A mixture of peas, carrots, and green beans not only adds color but also a slight crunch, balancing the creaminess of the soup.
• Fresh Herbs: Dried basil and flaked dried parsley provide a burst of fresh flavor that lifts the soup’s taste profile.

Together, these ingredients form a meal that’s full of comfort and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying dinner without the hassle of complicated preparation.

How to Make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup in the Crockpot

Making this creamy soup in your crockpot couldn’t be simpler. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a hot, delicious meal ready by the end of the day. Here’s how you can make this hearty soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 6 cups russet potatoes, diced
• 2 cups frozen vegetable mix (peas, carrots, and green beans)
• 30 milliliters dried basil
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 8 ounces cubed Velveeta cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef Base:

Start by sautéing the diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the onion softens and becomes translucent, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking the meat apart, until it’s browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, letting the garlic release its aromatic flavor. Drain any excess fat from the pan before transferring the beef mixture to your crockpot.

2. Assemble the Soup Base:

In the crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, frozen vegetable mix, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This base creates a flavorful and hearty foundation for the soup.

3. Slow Cook for Perfection:

Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the soup on the stovetop by simmering it for 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

4. Add Creaminess to the Soup:

To thicken the soup, mix milk and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup while continuously whisking. This step helps create a velvety texture. Next, add the Velveeta cheese cubes and stir occasionally until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the soup is thickened and the cheese has melted, serve it up in warm bowls. For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, consider garnishing with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

While this recipe is easy to follow, there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate the dish even further:

Add More Vegetables:

To make the soup even more flavorful and nutritious, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like chopped celery, diced bell peppers, or even corn. These ingredients will add extra texture and taste.

Add Some Heat:

If you like your soup with a little spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. This will give the soup a mild kick that pairs well with the creamy base.

Swap Milk for Heavy Cream:

For a richer, more indulgent soup, use heavy cream instead of milk. This will make the soup even creamier and more luxurious.

Make it Gluten-Free:

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute arrowroot powder for cornstarch. Be sure to double-check that your Velveeta cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Use Leaner Protein:

For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef. These options will still provide the same hearty texture without the added fat.

Perfect Pairings for Your Soup

This creamy potato and hamburger soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few options to consider for a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Knots or buttery dinner rolls: These breads are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is always a great option to mop up the rich soup.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent side dish to cut through the richness of the soup.

Why This Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food

This creamy potato and hamburger soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that provides warmth on the coldest days. The slow-cooking method allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, the convenience of using a crockpot means that you can set it and forget it, making it the perfect hands-off meal for busy days.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that creamy potato and hamburger soup is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing it in advance for easy leftovers, this recipe offers a blend of hearty, flavorful ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. With the added benefits of being able to customize the soup to your tastes and dietary preferences, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.

So, the next time you’re craving a warm, filling meal, give this crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup a try. You’ll be delighted by the rich flavor, creamy texture, and the fact that it’s so easy to make!