There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup, and this crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup recipe hits the spot! It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy, perfect for busy weeknights. My family adores it, and I’m sure yours will too!
This simple, budget-friendly soup is packed with flavor. The creamy base is rich and satisfying, with the beef and potatoes adding a hearty texture. The slow cooker does all the work! Just add the ingredients and enjoy a comforting meal later. If you’re looking for more slow cooker inspiration, check out these angel hair crock-pot recipes. This recipe, adapted from my grandma, is a staple in our home.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 small sweet onion, diced (yellow or white onion works too)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about a 1-inch dice – Yukon Gold or red potatoes are also delicious)
- 12 ounces frozen peas and carrots (optional, but adds a nice touch)
- 10.5 ounce can cheddar cheese soup (condensed)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 8 ounces Velveeta, cut into cubes (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
Feel free to customize the vegetables! Corn, green beans, or celery would be great additions. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker (or larger)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Browning the Beef and Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. This is important for keeping the Potato and Hamburger Soup from being too greasy. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the diced potatoes, and if using, the frozen peas and carrots. Give everything a good stir to combine. It’s okay if the potatoes aren’t completely submerged in the broth. For a different flavor profile, you could try this beef soup bones with meat recipe.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4 hours. The Potato and Hamburger Soup is done when the potatoes are fork-tender. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker, so it’s always a good idea to check the potatoes after the minimum cooking time. If they need more time, simply continue cooking until tender.
Adding the Finishing Touches
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheddar cheese soup, black pepper, and heavy cream. If you’re using Velveeta for extra creaminess, add that now too. Stir well to combine and let it melt completely. Give the Potato and Hamburger Soup a taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or more pepper. Looking for a different cheesy dish? Try this brisket mac and cheese. Now, get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal!
Tips and Variations
Making it Thicker or Thinner
If your Potato and Hamburger Soup turns out too thin, there are a few easy ways to thicken it. Make a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also simmer uncovered to reduce liquid. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth.
Different Potato Options
While russet potatoes are classic, try Yukon Gold for buttery flavor or red potatoes for color and firmness. Aim for a 1-inch dice. Smaller pieces can get mushy, and larger chunks might not cook through evenly. For more information on potato nutrition, check out this article from Healthline about potatoes.
Vegetable Variations
This crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup welcomes other vegetables! Consider corn, green beans, or diced celery. You can also swap the peas and carrots for a different frozen mix. This sausage and broccoli stir-fry is another great way to incorporate more veggies into your meals.
Stovetop Instructions
Yes, you can make this on the stovetop! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a large pot. Add the remaining ingredients (except the cream and cheese), bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 30-40 minutes). Stir in the cream, cheese, and seasonings until melted and heated through.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup is delicious on its own, but garnishes like fresh herbs, croutons, or shredded cheese add a nice touch. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad. This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. For a heartier meal, pair it with a sub in a tub.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Potato and Hamburger Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently; avoid boiling. For more food safety storage tips, check out this helpful guide from USDA on food storage safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big should I dice my potatoes?
Aim for a 1-inch dice for even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster and might get mushy. Larger pieces may not cook through evenly. A consistent size helps ensure all the potatoes are cooked to the same tenderness.
How big should I dice my potatoes?
For best results, dice your potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
Why is my Potato and Hamburger Soup thin?
Several factors could contribute to thin soup: too much broth, not enough potatoes, or not enough cooking time for the potatoes to release their starches. See the “Tips and Variations” section for solutions to thicken the soup, such as a cornstarch slurry or reducing the liquid.
Can the Potato and Hamburger Soup be made on the stovetop?
Yes! Refer to the “Tips and Variations” section for stovetop instructions. It’s a quicker method if you don’t have time to use the slow cooker.
Enjoy Your Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe!
I hope you and your family enjoy this crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup as much as we do! It’s truly a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for any night of the week. My kids, Lily and Liam, especially love it, and it’s become a regular request in our house. The best part is how easy it is to throw together – the slow cooker does all the work! So, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think. It’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy a warm, hearty meal without any fuss.
Amazing Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 3 medium russet potatoes peeled and diced (about a 1-inch dice)
- 12 ounces frozen peas and carrots optional
- 10.5 ounce can cheddar cheese soup condensed
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces Velveeta cut into cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Transfer beef, onion, and garlic to slow cooker.
- Pour in chicken broth, add diced potatoes and frozen peas and carrots (if using). Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cheddar cheese soup, black pepper, and heavy cream. Add Velveeta (if using) and stir until melted. Adjust seasonings as needed.