As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, there’s nothing quite like the smell of something warm and comforting wafting through the kitchen. Enter my favorite recipe for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup—a perfect blend of hearty ingredients that come together effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for busy families. One of the best perks of this dish is its creamy texture, combined with a nourishing mix of potatoes and vegetables that warms the soul. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable; swap in your favorite cheeses or toss in any veggies you have on hand for a personalized twist. If you’re looking for an easy way to make family dinner a breeze, this slow cooker delight is your new best friend. So, are you ready to indulge in a bowl of comfort? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Creamy Comfort: Each bowl of this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup envelops you in a velvety, rich texture that’s simply irresistible.

Endless Customization: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses or veggies—this recipe is wonderfully versatile!

Time-Saver: With just a few minutes of prep, this slow cooker marvel does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only comforting but also wholesome, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.

For more hearty inspiration, check out our Chicken Potato Casserole and White Bean Soup recipes!

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness; turkey can be a leaner alternative.
• Onion – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness; stick with yellow or white onions for the best taste.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor profile; fresh garlic offers the most aromatic quality.
• Potatoes (Yukon Gold/Russet) – The heart of the dish, offering creamy texture; Yukon Golds are preferred for their creaminess.
• Carrots & Celery – Contributes a nice texture and flavor depth; feel free to substitute with corn or peas for added variety.

For the Broth

• Chicken or Beef Broth – Adds moisture and savory depth; choose low-sodium options to regulate your salt intake.

For Flavoring

• Dried Thyme, Parsley, Paprika, Salt, Pepper – Essential spices that elevate the dish’s overall flavor.

For Creaminess

• Heavy Cream & Milk – These give the soup its rich, creamy consistency; consider half-and-half or dairy-free substitutions like coconut milk.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Enhances creaminess with a delightful cheesy flavor; experiment with Colby Jack or Gouda for different tasting notes.

Optional Thickener

• Cornstarch – Used for thickening the soup; mix with water for the best results.

Dive into your own Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup experience and enjoy the warm, nourishing embrace of this family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the beef as it cooks for an even texture. Once done, drain any excess fat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Stir frequently to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn, as this step brings out wonderful flavors that will infuse the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef along with the sautéed onions and garlic into the slow cooker. Next, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. These vegetables are key to creating a hearty base for the soup, adding both texture and flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in your choice of chicken or beef broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the seasonings with the mixed ingredients, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully in the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The goal here is to allow the vegetables to become tender and soak in the savory broth, creating a warming and delicious soup that your family will love.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese
About 20 minutes before serving, add in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine for a rich, creamy texture. Don’t forget to mix in the shredded cheddar cheese for that extra cheesy goodness. If you prefer a thicker consistency for your soup, you can mix cornstarch with a little water to add as needed.

Step 7: Final Cook and Serve
Cook the soup for an additional 15-20 minutes on low, uncovered, to allow it to thicken slightly and the flavors to deepen. As the soup cooks, it should become velvety and comforting. Once ready, garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your warm bowls of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup!

Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Feel free to explore and personalize this soup for your family’s taste buds!

Lean Protein: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option packed with flavor. It’s perfect if you’re watching your fat intake.
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh or frozen vegetables such as peas, green beans, or corn to amp up the nutrition. This creates a vibrant mix of colors and textures that everyone will love!
Cheese Choices: Experiment with your favorite cheese varieties—try smoked Gouda for a rich, smoky twist. Each cheese will lend its unique characteristic to the creamy blend.
Dairy-Free Delight: For a creamy yet dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The hint of coconut adds a subtle sweetness that infuses the soup beautifully.
Spice it Up: Add a touch of heat by mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It’s a playful kick that adds a whole new flavor dimension!
Herb Infusion: Enhance the aroma by mixing in fresh herbs like basil or dill right before serving. Their vibrant flavors uplift the entire dish.
Thick and Hearty: If you prefer a creamier consistency, blend a portion of the soup until smooth and return it to the crockpot. This thickens up the dish while keeping those delightful potato chunks.
Crispy Topping: For extra texture, top your bowls with crispy bacon bits or homemade croutons before serving. A delightful crunch contrasted against the creamy soup takes it to the next level.

For more hearty options, check out our Sausage Ranch Potato recipe for a crowd-pleasing twist! Or warm up with a cozy bowl of White Lasagna Soup that’s equally satisfying.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Thawing: To thaw, move the soup to the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before reheating.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop your onions, carrots, and celery, and even peel and dice the potatoes, up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepared vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and sauté the garlic and onions a day ahead; simply keep them refrigerated until it’s time to cook. When you’re ready to serve, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours). Finish with the dairy ingredients about 20 minutes before serving for that perfect creamy texture. This preparation ensures your lovely soup is just as delicious with minimal evening effort!

What to Serve with Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

As you savor each warm spoonful, consider these delicious accompaniments that elevate your meal into something truly special.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm, crusty loaf complements the creamy soup and absorbs every bit of flavor.
Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich soup, making each bite feel balanced and fresh.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: For the cheese lovers, this cheesy twist on garlic bread makes for an indulgent pairing, ideal for scooping up soup.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright and vibrant, green beans provide a nutritious and colorful addition to your plate, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and buttery, cornbread muffins are a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the soup’s richness.
Fruit Salad: A chilled fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the soup, lightening up your meal.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the hearty flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, an apple crisp brings warmth and spice, perfectly rounding out a comforting meal.

Let your imagination guide you as you mix and match these delightful sides, crafting the ultimate comforting dinner experience!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Brown the Meat: Always brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker; this enhances the flavor of your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup.
Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes offer the best creamy texture. Avoid Russet potatoes if you want to maintain chunkiness in your soup.
Add Dairy Last: To prevent curdling, mix in heavy cream, milk, and cheese toward the end of the cooking process.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap in veggies like corn or peas, but remember to cut them into small pieces to ensure they cook through in time.
Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thin, create a slurry with cornstarch and water, then add it in and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They break down beautifully and provide a rich, velvety base for your soup. If you’re looking for a hearty chunkiness, you can use Russet potatoes, but keep in mind that they tend to disintegrate more during cooking.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This ensures it stays fresh and tasty for your next warm indulgence!

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze your soup, ladle it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very easily! If you find the soup thicker than you’d like, just mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes on low heat until it thickens to your preferred consistency. This is a great way to tailor the texture to your liking!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with options like coconut milk or almond milk. Furthermore, to keep it gluten-free, make sure your broths and any thickeners are certified gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for allergens to ensure a safe and delicious meal!