There’s something magical about walking into a warm house on a chilly Oregon evening and smelling dinner bubbling away in the crockpot. I remember the first time I made this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe for Lila and Jack after a long soccer practice. They were tired, hungry, and a little grumpy, but the moment they tasted this comforting soup, their faces lit up.
My dad used to make a similar version when I was growing up, and now I’ve simplified it even more for busy families like ours. This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup has become our go-to meal when we need something hearty, satisfying, and absolutely foolproof. The beauty of this easy recipe is that you can prep everything in the morning and come home to a soul-warming dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup
This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe checks every box for a weeknight winner. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Ground beef and potatoes are pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
Second, the hands-on time is minimal. You’ll spend about 15 minutes browning the meat and chopping vegetables, then the slow cooker does all the work. Moreover, this soup feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep Sunday.
The creamy texture comes from simple ingredients you likely already have. Furthermore, kids absolutely devour this soup because it’s mild, comforting, and reminds them of loaded baked potato soup meets hamburger goodness. My sister Grace calls it “hug-in-a-bowl food,” and honestly, she’s not wrong.
Additionally, this easy crockpot soup recipe is forgiving. You can adjust seasonings, swap vegetables, and make it your own without fear of failure.
I love that this hamburger potato soup honors Mark’s memory in a way. He always appreciated hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meals that brought everyone to the table. This recipe does exactly that.
Finally, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot. Less dishes means more time with the people you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe is straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (85% lean) | 1.5 pounds |
| Russet potatoes, peeled and diced | 6 medium |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 large |
| Carrots, peeled and diced | 3 medium |
| Celery stalks, diced | 2 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 |
| Beef broth | 6 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Dried thyme | ½ teaspoon |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
This creamy hamburger soup relies on simple, accessible ingredients. The combination creates depth and richness that tastes gourmet without any fancy techniques.
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe is its flexibility. If you’re watching your fat intake, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The soup will be slightly lighter but still delicious. Similarly, you can use Yukon gold potatoes instead of russets for a creamier texture that breaks down more during cooking.
For a dairy-free version of this easy crockpot soup, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free cream cheese. Nutritional yeast can replace the cheddar for a cheesy flavor. Meanwhile, if you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour or mash some potatoes against the side of the crockpot during the last hour.
Want to boost the vegetables? Toss in corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers. Lila loves when I add frozen corn kernels during the final 30 minutes.
Additionally, bacon lovers can crisp up some bacon and crumble it on top for serving. For a Southwest twist on this hamburger potato soup, add cumin, chili powder, and diced green chiles, then top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
If you’re avoiding gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken. Just mix it with cold water before adding. These variations keep this crockpot soup recipe fresh and exciting for your family week after week.
One of the best things about this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe is its flexibility. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to complement your meal, try these creamy mini oreo cheesecake bites.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe couldn’t be simpler. Let me walk you through each step to ensure perfect results every time.
Step 1: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. This takes about 7-8 minutes.
Drain excess fat, then transfer the beef to your crockpot. This step adds flavor that you can’t achieve by adding raw meat directly.
Step 2: Next, add the diced onion to the same skillet with a touch of oil if needed. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the crockpot with the beef.
Step 3: Now add your diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Pour in the beef broth and add your seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine. This easy recipe requires no complicated techniques.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the vegetables are soft. The aroma will fill your entire house during this time.
Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the soup. Stir well until it melts completely. This creates that signature creaminess in this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup.
Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth with no lumps. Pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. This thickens the broth beautifully.
Step 7: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and incorporated. Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Let the soup sit for 10 minutes to thicken slightly before serving. This hamburger soup recipe is now ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
After making this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks. First, always brown your ground beef beforehand. Raw beef releases too much liquid and fat into the crockpot, resulting in a greasy soup. The browning also develops flavors through the Maillard reaction.
Second, cut your potatoes and vegetables uniformly. This ensures even cooking throughout. I aim for half-inch cubes for everything.
Additionally, don’t skip the cream cheese! It creates a velvety texture that heavy cream alone can’t achieve. Make sure it’s softened for easier melting.
Furthermore, add the dairy ingredients near the end of cooking. Prolonged heat can cause cream to break or curdle. The last 30 minutes is perfect timing for this creamy potato soup.
If your soup seems thin, remember it thickens as it cools. The potatoes also release starch that naturally thickens the broth.
Another tip: use a good quality beef broth. Since this easy crockpot recipe has few ingredients, each one matters. Low-sodium broth gives you better control over seasoning.
Finally, resist the urge to lift the lid frequently. Each peek releases heat and adds 15-20 minutes to cooking time. Trust the process with this crockpot hamburger soup!
After making this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks. To satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner, consider baking some heart shaped chocolate chip cookies.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In fact, the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
When reheating this creamy hamburger potato soup, do so gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or milk if it’s thickened too much. Microwaving works too—just use 50% power and stir every minute to prevent hot spots.
Can you freeze this soup? Yes, but with a caveat. Potatoes can become grainy when frozen and thawed.
The dairy may also separate slightly. If you plan to freeze, I recommend slightly undercooking the potatoes and freezing before adding the cream and cheese. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat and add the dairy ingredients fresh. This method works wonderfully for this easy soup recipe.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with sides makes the meal even more special. Crusty bread is my first choice. A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dunking. Jack loves tearing off chunks and soaking up every last drop of this creamy soup.
A simple green salad balances the richness beautifully. I toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. The freshness cuts through the creaminess of this hamburger potato soup.
Additionally, homemade cornbread muffins are a family favorite alongside this soup. The slight sweetness complements the savory flavors perfectly.
For a complete comfort food spread, serve this crockpot soup with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. My sister Grace always brings her famous buttermilk biscuits when I make this soup. They’re fluffy, buttery, and absolutely divine for soaking up the broth. Furthermore, a veggie tray with ranch dip adds crunch and freshness that kids enjoy.
If you want extra toppings, set out bowls of crispy bacon bits, sour cream, chives, and extra shredded cheese. Let everyone customize their bowl of this easy crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup. It turns dinner into an interactive, fun experience.
This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with sides makes the meal even more special. For a delicious main dish to serve alongside, check out this sheet pan chicken pitas with herby ranch slaw recipe.
FAQs
Can I make this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a large pot. Simmer over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Add the cream, cream cheese, and cheddar during the last 10 minutes. This hamburger soup recipe adapts well to stovetop cooking when you’re short on time.
Why is my soup not creamy enough?
If your crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, try these fixes: mash some potatoes against the side of the pot to release more starch, add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with cream, or stir in more cream cheese. Let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to reduce liquid. These techniques work wonderfully for this easy recipe.
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes! Frozen hash browns work great in this crockpot soup recipe. Use about 30 ounces of frozen cubed hash browns.
They’ll cook faster, so reduce cooking time by about an hour on low. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious in this creamy potato soup.
How do I prevent the dairy from curdling?
The key is adding dairy near the end of cooking and not letting the soup boil after adding it. Keep your crockpot on low or warm setting once you’ve added the cream and cheese to this hamburger potato soup. Also, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding. These steps prevent separation in this easy crockpot recipe.
What’s the best ground beef to use?
I recommend 85% lean ground beef for this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe. It has enough fat for flavor but not so much that the soup becomes greasy. If you use 90% or leaner, the soup might taste slightly less rich. If using 80% lean, drain the beef very thoroughly before adding to your crockpot.
Crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of ground beef and potatoes in a creamy broth. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with various ingredients, making it a versatile choice for families looking for a hearty meal. For more information on similar recipes, visit this soup page.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 25g |
This creamy hamburger soup provides a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. While it’s indulgent, it’s also nourishing and satisfying. You can lighten it up by using the substitutions mentioned earlier without sacrificing the comforting nature of this easy recipe. This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup truly brings people together around the table, just like my dad’s cooking always did.
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crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup easy recipe
- Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Description
This crockpot creamy potato hamburger soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy families. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it delivers rich flavors and a creamy texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds Ground beef (85% lean)
6 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 large Yellow onion, diced
3 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
2 Celery stalks, diced
4 Garlic cloves, minced
6 cups Beef broth
1 cup Heavy cream
8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Salt
½ teaspoon Black pepper
½ teaspoon Paprika
½ teaspoon Dried thyme
2 Bay leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. This takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then transfer the beef to your crockpot
- Step 2: Add the diced onion to the same skillet with a touch of oil if needed. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the crockpot with the beef
- Step 3: Add your diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Pour in the beef broth and add your seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender
- Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the soup. Stir until it melts completely
- Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth. Pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly
- Step 7: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the soup sit for 10 minutes before serving
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg