There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of creamy potato and hamburger soup, especially when it’s as easy as tossing everything into your crockpot. This hearty soup is loaded with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth, making it perfect for chilly days or when you need a simple, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp dried thyme
For Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Additional shredded cheese
- Crumbled bacon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
2. Assemble the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
- Add the cooked beef and onion mixture to the crockpot.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, minced garlic, chicken or beef broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
3. Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the Cheese:
- During the final 10-15 minutes, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with parsley, additional cheese, or crumbled bacon as desired.
Tips for Success
- Potato Selection: Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and hold their shape well, while Russet potatoes break down slightly, making the soup thicker.
- Time Saver: Dice the potatoes the night before and store them in water in the fridge to prevent browning.
- Customize the Flavor: Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra texture and flavor.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk mixture.
Conclusion
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect dinner for busy nights or cozy weekends. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
