Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Bliss

Name: Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-480694H25M49S
Total time: PT-480694H25M49S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening); Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings, especially on a chilly day. The creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, makes this soup a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal effort thanks to the crockpot, and delivers maximum flavor. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound of ground beef

1 medium onion, diced
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced

4 cups of beef broth
1 cup of water
1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1 teaspoon of dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat to prevent a greasy soup. Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot, which will serve as the base of your soup.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Next, add the diced onions, minced garlic, and diced potatoes to the crockpot along with the ground beef. The onions will add a sweet, aromatic flavor, while the garlic will provide a robust depth to the soup. The potatoes will become tender and meld beautifully with the other ingredients. Pour in the beef broth and water, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. The liquid will cook the vegetables and help form the base of your soup.

3. Season the Soup

It’s time to season your soup. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These herbs and spices will infuse the soup with a wonderful aroma and flavor. Stir the ingredients to evenly distribute the seasonings. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer, slower cooking time will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful soup.

4. Add the Cream and Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to add the rich, creamy components. Stir in the heavy cream, which will transform the soup into a creamy delight. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt into the soup, adding a delicious cheesy flavor. If you prefer a thicker soup, create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water, then stir it into the soup. Let the soup cook for the remaining 30 minutes to allow it to thicken.

5. Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh, bright touch. The green onions add a mild, crisp flavor, while the parsley adds a hint of freshness. Serve this creamy, comforting soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Choosing Potatoes

For the best results, use Russet potatoes in this recipe. Russet potatoes are starchy and break down slightly during cooking, helping to create a naturally thick and creamy texture in the soup. If you prefer a chunkier soup, Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option, as they hold their shape better.

Adding Vegetables

To boost the nutritional value of this soup, consider adding extra vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, or corn would make excellent additions and complement the flavors of the potatoes and beef. Simply add them to the crockpot along with the potatoes and onions.

Storage

This soup is great for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy a bowl of comforting soup anytime without having to start from scratch.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked cheddar instead of regular cheddar cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version of this soup.

Nutritional Facts

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is not only delicious but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 320 kcal

Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 19g
Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 2g
Protein: 14g

This soup is a hearty and filling option that’s sure to satisfy your hunger while providing essential nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or milk if needed.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly due to the cream and potatoes. If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing it before adding the cream and cheese. Then, add the cream and cheese when you reheat it.

3. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious on its own as a filling meal.

4. How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is recommended for its sharp flavor, you can use any cheese you like. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack would be great alternatives.

Enjoy making and savoring this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup—a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to be a hit.