There’s nothing quite like a bowl of comforting, creamy soup to warm your soul. Our Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty and flavorful meal. This delicious soup features tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, velvety cream base—all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
A Brief History of Creamy Soups
Creamy soups have graced kitchens around the world for centuries. From classic French bisques to hearty American chowders, these soups are celebrated for their ability to provide comfort and deliver rich flavors. The combination of potatoes and meat has long been a beloved pairing, particularly in European and American households. Adding a creamy base enhances these flavors, resulting in a luxurious texture. With the advent of slow cookers, crafting such complex and comforting flavors has never been easier.
Ingredients for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
To create this hearty soup, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean ground beef is preferred, but ground chuck offers more flavor)
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium is a great option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for added richness)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water for thickening, if desired)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
While the aromatics are cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Add the diced potatoes to the crockpot on top of the onion and garlic.
Step 4: Add the Beef Broth and Seasonings
Pour the beef broth over the potatoes in the crockpot. Stir in the cooked ground beef, dried parsley, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and all the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 6: Add the Creamy Base
Once the soup has finished cooking, slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend smoothly with the broth. Next, add the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) for an extra touch of richness. Stir well to incorporate everything.
Step 7: Thicken the Soup (Optional)
For a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Gradually pour this into the soup while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened to your liking.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Choosing the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best due to their ability to break down and enhance the soup’s creaminess. For a chunkier texture, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, incorporate carrots, celery, or spinach. These will provide extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even sharp blue cheese for a unique twist.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The slow cooking process deepens the flavors while the addition of cream and cheese creates a luxurious texture. Combining the richness of ground beef with the starchiness of potatoes and a velvety cream base results in a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
If you’re on the lookout for a soup that’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and comforting in every bite, this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Enjoy this heartwarming soup any time you crave comfort!