Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup
When the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a hearty, comforting bowl of soup to warm you up. This Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup is creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious soup simmering away in your slow cooker. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to get started. This recipe is adaptable, so feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean is best for a less greasy result)
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter soup)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or a blend for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for a hint of umami)
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Pro Tip: For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. You’ll get a leaner soup while keeping all the delicious flavor.
2. Prep the Crockpot
Add diced potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to your crockpot. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme for extra flavor.
3. Add the Broth and Beef
Pour in the beef broth and stir in the browned ground beef. Add Worcestershire sauce for a richer, deeper flavor.
4. Set and Forget
Cover the crockpot with its lid, set it on low heat, and let it cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high heat for 3-4 hours.
5. Add Cream and Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Let it melt into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.
Pro Tip: For an even creamier soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the cream and cheese.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Give the soup a good stir, adjust the seasonings as needed, and serve it warm. Top with extra cheese, bacon bits, or fresh chopped parsley for added flavor.
Tips and Variations
Make It Lighter
For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
Add Some Greens
Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
Spice It Up
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give this soup a bit of heat.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
This Crockpot Potato & Hamburger Soup is a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With the creamy texture, hearty potatoes, and savory beef, every spoonful is comforting and delicious. So grab your slow cooker and let it do all the work while you enjoy the amazing aroma filling your kitchen!
