This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect meal for chilly days when you crave something hearty, warm, and satisfying. With tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy broth, this soup is easy to prepare and loved by the whole family. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma of this comforting dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or 80/20)
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess grease.
- Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, garlic, broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine.
3. Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Add the Creamy Base
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and flour to create a roux.
- Stir the roux into the soup, along with the milk and heavy cream.
- Cook on high for 20–30 minutes to thicken the soup.
5. Adjust and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and crumbled bacon.
Tips for the Best Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture or Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor.
- Thicker Soup: For an extra-thick soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot before adding the cream.
- Add Veggies: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Variations
- Cheeseburger Style: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a cheesier soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup base (without the milk and cream) for up to 3 months. Add the dairy after reheating for the best texture.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The crockpot does all the work, making it perfect for busy days.
- Comforting Flavors: Creamy, hearty, and rich, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Enjoy this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup for a comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. A true bowl of bliss! 🥣✨
