As the temperature drops and leaves don their vibrant autumn coats, I find solace in the kitchen, where hearty meals come to life. One such dish that has become a beloved staple in my home is the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. Picture this: the fragrant melody of beef simmering slowly beside creamy potatoes creates an atmosphere of warmth and comfort that fills the entire house.
I remember a chilly evening when friends stopped by unexpectedly; I had nothing prepared. With a few simple ingredients and my trusty crockpot, I whipped up this soul-soothing soup in no time. It’s an effortless recipe that brings the family together, perfect for bustling weeknights or lazy weekends. Each spoonful is a balance of rich flavors and creamy goodness that just feels like a warm hug. This recipe is not just about nourishing the body; it’s about creating moments and memories, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to escape the fast-food routine. Join me as we dive into this comforting journey of mouthwatering simplicity!
Why will you love Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup?
Comforting on chilly days: This soup wraps you in warmth, perfect for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Effortless preparation: Simply toss ingredients in your crockpot and let time work its magic—no master chef skills required!
Versatile options: Customize with different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a go-to for everyone.
Rich flavors: The combination of savory beef, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously satisfying meal that brings everyone back for seconds.
Meal prep friendly: Make-ahead and freezer-friendly, this soup is perfect for busy weeks, allowing you to savor homemade goodness anytime!
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef – Provides protein and depth of flavor; substitute with turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter version.
• Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture; use Yukon Gold or Russet for creaminess, or cauliflower for a low-carb option.
• Onion – Builds the flavor base; white or yellow onions work best, while shallots offer a milder taste.
• Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; fresh cloves deliver a stronger taste, or garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Beef Broth – Forms the soup’s rich base; vegetable broth can be a lighter substitute.
For Creaminess
• Half-and-Half – Contributes richness; heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk can be used instead.
• Frozen Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; fresh or canned corn can also be used, or omitted for a meat-centric dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor; feel free to swap with other cheeses for unique tastes.
For Seasoning
• Dried Thyme – Adds herby aroma and flavor; fresh thyme can be substituted for a vibrant touch.
• Salt – Enhances all flavors; kosher salt is recommended for more controlled seasoning.
• Black Pepper – Provides a mild heat; freshly cracked black pepper is best for maximum flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned, taking about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and savory.
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Prep the Crockpot: Grab your trusty crockpot and combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth, add the browned ground beef, and season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed and flavorful.
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Cook: Cover and set your crockpot to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the potatoes become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
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Add Creaminess: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen corn and half-and-half. Cover and let it continue cooking; this is where the magic happens!
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Finish the Soup: Just before you’re ready to serve, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully and combines with the soup for that creamy texture.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or homemade croutons for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup?
Transform your comforting bowl of soup into a delightful meal by pairing it with these delicious options.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, hearty bread adds texture and absorbs those rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, brightening up your meal.
- Homemade Croutons: Crispy and flavorful, croutons not only add texture but can also be made with leftover bread, reducing waste.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, savory taste and crunch of garlic bread complement the soup’s creaminess wonderfully, making every bite irresistible.
- Cheesy Biscuit Dumplings: Light and fluffy, these warm dumplings provide a delightful play on textures and a comforting addition to your meal.
- Pickles or Relish: A side of tangy pickles can cut through the richness, adding a savory zing that keeps your palate excited.
- Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly, cornbread pairs nicely with this hearty soup, enhancing the overall comfort-food experience.
- Soda or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink can cleanse the palate, and sweet or unsweetened tea provides the perfect southern touch to your meal.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies bring a touch of sweetness, creating a satisfying conclusion to a cozy dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This soup can be prepared ahead of time; simply cool completely and freeze it for a quick meal later, keeping your family’s favorite Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup at the ready!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup preparations are a dream for busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can combine all ingredients in your crockpot the night before and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, just plug in your crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. To ensure the soup remains perfectly creamy, add the half-and-half and cheese just 30 minutes before serving. This makes for a hearty meal that’s easily accessible and just as delicious as if made fresh!
Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Get creative and tailor this comforting soup to your taste with these fun adaptations!
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Dairy-Free: Replace half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or quinoa, providing protein while keeping it hearty and wholesome. It adds a different flavor while maintaining the soul of the dish.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped carrots or celery along with the potatoes for added nutrition and color; they bring a lovely crunch that complements the creamy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix, sparking up this comforting soup with a delightful heat.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to add a unique twist to the flavor profile; just imagine the melted goodness!
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Herbal Variations: Use fresh rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a distinctly aromatic touch that transforms each bowl into a fragrant experience.
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Grainy Twist: Incorporate barley or wild rice for a heartier soup; these grains will absorb flavors beautifully and create a satisfying chew.
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Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pumpkin seeds as a garnish right before serving; they provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, perfectly balancing the creaminess.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
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Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned and drained of excess fat. This enhances the flavor and prevents greasiness in the soup.
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Cut Potatoes Evenly: Chop your potatoes into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. This ensures every bite has the same delightful texture.
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Timing for Creaminess: Add the half-and-half towards the end of the cooking process, about 30 minutes before serving, to maintain a rich and creamy texture in your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup.
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Don’t Skip the Thyme: This herb adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor; fresh is best, but if using dried, adjust accordingly as it’s more concentrated.
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Check for Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is a good opportunity to elevate the flavors of your soup!
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for this soup?
For the creamiest and heartiest texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They break down beautifully while cooking, creating a luscious base for the soup. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute with cauliflower.
How should I store leftover soup?
Absolutely! Store your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted moisture.
Can I freeze this soup? How?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful soup! Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s become too thick.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup is thicker than desired, just stir in a bit of beef broth or water while reheating to achieve your preferred consistency. Adjust a little at a time until you get it just right!
Are there any ingredient substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make this soup lighter, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative. If you’re following a dairy-free diet, use coconut milk instead of half-and-half and opt for a dairy-free cheese. This makes it versatile enough for everyone to enjoy!
How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through?
The best way to check is by simply poking a potato chunk with a fork. If it pierces easily without resistance, they are perfectly tender! The cooking time is about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in your crockpot, ensuring a rich and cozy texture.
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Prep the Crockpot: Combine diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in crockpot.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in beef broth, add browned ground beef, and season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cook: Cover and set crockpot to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in frozen corn and half-and-half about 30 minutes before serving. Cover and continue cooking.
- Finish the Soup: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving until melted and combined.