Hearty Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this comforting Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup! This rich, velvety soup combines the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a luscious creamy broth that’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is an effortless way to bring a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal to the table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty soup that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 5 cups)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup sour cream (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 6-quart or larger slow cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains (about 7–8 minutes). Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy, then transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
- Assemble the Soup: Add the cubed potatoes, beef broth, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. The broth should just cover the potatoes; if needed, add a splash more broth or water.
- Slow Cook for Tenderness: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and easily break apart, creating a naturally thickened texture.
- Add Creamy Goodness: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, luscious broth. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 15–20 minutes on low to meld the flavors and warm through. Stir occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more milk or broth and stir well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra cheddar cheese, or crispy bacon bits for a touch of indulgence. Serve with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Potatoes: Russet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative for a slightly creamier texture.
- Make It Your Own: Add vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra color and nutrition. For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well (without the dairy). Freeze the base (beef, potatoes, and broth) for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and stir in the milk, cheese, and sour cream.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy, cheesy goodness that makes every spoonful irresistible. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to develop over hours while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this soup is sure to impress with its rich taste and satisfying texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with a warm slice of homemade cornbread, a buttery dinner roll, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a cozy dinner, serve it in bread bowls for an extra-special presentation. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the meal perfectly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Note: Nutritional values vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
