There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy soup on a chilly day. This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup combines hearty ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery with rich, velvety cream and melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive into how to prepare this flavorful, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Introduction
Life can get busy, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise on enjoying a wholesome, delicious meal. Crockpot recipes are perfect for slow-cooking hearty ingredients to perfection while you focus on other tasks. This creamy potato and hamburger soup is the epitome of cozy, with its tender vegetables, flavorful ground beef, and luscious cheesy broth.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a soul-warming dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and absolutely bursting with flavor.
The Origin of Potato Soups and Their Comforting Legacy
Potato soups have been a staple in kitchens worldwide for centuries. From rustic farmhouse broths to rich, creamy bisques, these soups are versatile and hearty. Ground beef adds a satisfying protein component, elevating this dish into a full meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
The combination of simple pantry staples like potatoes, carrots, celery, and cheese transforms into a crockpot masterpiece that honors the tradition of comforting, home-cooked meals.
Ingredients: Quantity and Customization
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe, along with some tips to make it your own:
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides a robust, savory base for the soup. You can also substitute ground turkey or sausage for variety.
- Onion (1 large, chopped) & Garlic (2 cloves, minced): These aromatics add depth and enhance the flavor of the beef.
- Potatoes (4 large, peeled and diced): Yukon gold or Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Carrots (3 large, sliced) & Celery (2 stalks, sliced): These vegetables add a subtle sweetness and crunch.
Broth and Seasonings:
- Chicken or beef broth (4 cups): Acts as the base of the soup, adding rich, savory undertones.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp), parsley (1 tsp), paprika (1 tsp): These spices enhance the flavor profile, adding warmth and earthiness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Creamy and Cheesy Additions:
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the soup its luscious, creamy texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into the soup for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps balance the thickness of the soup.
Optional:
- Cornstarch mixture (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water): For a thicker consistency.
- Fresh parsley and extra cheese (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and extra indulgence.
Tips for Success
- Brown the Beef First: Cooking the ground beef with onion and garlic before adding it to the crockpot ensures maximum flavor and prevents excess grease in your soup.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well during slow cooking, while Russet potatoes break down slightly, adding to the soup’s creamy texture.
- Layer Ingredients Strategically: Place the vegetables at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking.
- Don’t Add Dairy Too Early: To avoid curdling, stir in the cream, milk, and cheese during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Customize Consistency: Adjust the soup’s thickness with the cornstarch mixture or additional broth, depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Add thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook on Low or High:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until well combined.
- Cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese for a vibrant, delicious finish.
Description of the Final Dish
The soup is a visual and flavorful masterpiece. Tender chunks of potatoes, vibrant orange carrots, and specks of green celery swim in a rich, creamy broth. The melted cheddar adds a velvety texture, while the ground beef provides hearty substance. Each spoonful is a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: ~800mg
For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheese, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or replace ground beef with ground turkey.
Conclusion and Recommendation
This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or when you need a comforting dish to share with family and friends. Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or simply enjoy it as is.
Embracing Comfort in Every Spoonful
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This soup proves that simple ingredients, combined thoughtfully, can result in something extraordinary. So, dust off your crockpot and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it. Happy cooking! 🍲