Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

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Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Favorite

When the weather turns chilly or you just need a bowl of pure comfort, few dishes can compete with the cozy richness of a Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. It’s the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, soft, starchy potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth that warms you from the inside out. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this slow cooker soup is a must-have in your winter recipe lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crockpot Soup

This soup is everything you want in a comfort meal:

  • Hearty and filling thanks to the ground beef and potatoes
  • Creamy and cheesy, offering a rich texture without being overly heavy
  • Easy to make in a slow cooker, requiring minimal prep
  • Customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings
  • Great for leftovers, as the flavor deepens overnight

Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or feeding a crowd, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.

Ingredients for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this soul-warming dish:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 5–6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a creamier result)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
  • Fresh parsley or chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup in the Slow Cooker

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess fat. Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.

2. Add the Vegetables

Chop your potatoes, onion, and garlic. Add them to the crockpot with the beef. These vegetables are the heart of the soup, providing both flavor and texture.

3. Season and Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the parsley, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine evenly.

4. Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook:

  • On low heat for 6–7 hours, or
  • On high heat for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

5. Add Creaminess

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk or half-and-half and shredded cheddar cheese. If you want a thicker consistency, whisk the flour into the milk before adding it to the soup.

Tip: Add the butter at this stage if you’d like to enhance the soup’s richness.

Continue cooking uncovered until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a velvety texture.

6. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread or buttery biscuits on the side.

Tips for the Best Potato & Hamburger Soup

  • Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes break down slightly while cooking, naturally thickening the soup.
  • Cheese Tips: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
  • Adjust the Thickness: Mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot, or add a flour-milk slurry to thicken to your preference.
  • Season at the End: Always taste before serving and adjust the seasoning. A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can really elevate the flavor.

Why the Slow Cooker is Ideal for This Soup

Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to slowly meld together, resulting in deep, developed flavors. The potatoes absorb the savory broth, the beef becomes incredibly tender, and the long cooking time creates a creamy, cohesive texture that stovetop versions can’t quite replicate.

The crockpot also makes this recipe hands-off and stress-free. Just prep the ingredients in the morning and let the soup simmer all day—dinner will be ready and waiting.

Creative Variations to Try

Want to add your own twist to this cozy classic? Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

🥕 Add More Veggies

  • Diced carrots, celery, corn, or peas can add color and nutrients.

🌶 Spice It Up

  • Add red pepper flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or swap ground beef for spicy sausage.

🥦 Make It Low Carb

  • Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version that still feels indulgent.

🧀 Try Different Cheeses

  • Experiment with blends like smoked gouda, blue cheese, or cream cheese for different flavor profiles.

How to Store and Reheat

This soup is excellent for meal prep and leftovers.

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Final Thoughts: Comfort in a Bowl

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the kind of meal that never fails to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and comfort in every spoonful.

Warm your soul—and your stomach—with this foolproof recipe. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your household.

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