Are you looking for a comforting, delicious meal that practically cooks itself? If so, the Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect solution. This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground hamburger with the creamy goodness of potatoes and cheese, making it a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply prepping for the week ahead, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. The best part? You can throw all the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do the hard work.
Why We Love This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. First and foremost, its simplicity is a major draw. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this delicious dish; it requires minimal prep and effort. Just chop your ingredients, brown the meat, and let the Crockpot transform them into a sumptuous soup.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste; whether you want to swap the cheese for a healthier option or add more spices, this soup will accommodate your cravings. It’s perfect for cold weather, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Enjoying a rich and creamy soup on a chilly evening is not just satisfying—it’s also a delightful ritual.
Ingredients for Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- 1 lb ground hamburger
- 4 cups potatoes, diced into small pieces
- 1 cup onion, chopped finely
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, thyme, or other spices
With ingredients readily available, you can easily make this delightful soup anytime you’re aiming for an easy meal full of flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Creating this flavorful soup is as enjoyable as eating it!
Start by browning the ground hamburger in a skillet over medium heat. As the meat cooks, break it apart with a spatula until it’s fully browned. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures your meat is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the Crockpot. Once the hamburger is done, drain any excess fat to keep your soup rich but not greasy.
Next, grab your trusty Crockpot and toss in the diced potatoes and finely chopped onions. Pouring the slow-cooked goodness into a single pot makes cleanup easy, and you’ll save time by not dirtying multiple dishes.
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—the browned hamburger. Add this to the Crockpot, mixing it well with the potatoes and onions. Afterward, pour in the chicken or beef broth. This broth adds depth to the soup and complements the other ingredients beautifully. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.
Set your Crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly. It’s advisable to stir occasionally; doing so will ensure even cooking and help those delicious flavors meld together.
As you approach the last half hour, it’s time to elevate your soup to creamy perfection. Stir in the heavy cream along with your shredded cheese. Not only does this create a luxurious texture, but it also amplifies the overall flavor of the dish.
Before serving, season your masterpiece with salt and pepper. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like garlic powder or thyme to suit your preferences.
Your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Serving your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is just as easy as making it. Start by ladling the hot soup into bowls. The comforting aroma of the creamy broth and melted cheese will have hungry mouths watering in anticipation.
You can enhance your presentation by adding a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top or even a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream can provide a delightful tanginess that complements the richness of the soup.
Pair your soup with crusty bread or freshly baked rolls for a complete meal experience. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, making every bite a treat.
This dish is also fantastic for family-style dining; serve the entire pot at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. It’s the kind of meal that encourages conversation and warmth among loved ones.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
To ensure that your Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work wonderfully for this soup due to their creamy texture when cooked. You can also use Yukon gold for a buttery taste.
- Cut Uniformly: When dicing your potatoes, aim for uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and enhances the overall texture of the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the hamburger adds a depth of flavor that sets this soup apart. It creates that delicious umami taste you’ll find irresistible.
- Adjust for Dairy Sensitivity: If you or someone you’re serving is lactose intolerant, consider substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a lactose-free cream alternative.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
By following these expert tips, you’ll create a soup that’s not just good but exceptional.
How to Store Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
After enjoying your delicious Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, you might find some leftovers. Thankfully, this soup stores well! Allow it to cool completely before you refrigerate it. Divide it into airtight containers for easy storage. Properly kept, your soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Variation of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
While the classic version of this soup is delightful, don’t hesitate to experiment! You can create variations that cater to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Vegetable Loaded: Add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. These veggies can be chopped and added straight to the Crockpot with other ingredients.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you throw in your broth.
- Herb-Infused: For a more aromatic version, toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. Adding a bay leaf while it cooks can also bring an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Vegan Option: For a meatless alternative, substitute the ground hamburger with plant-based crumbles, and use almond or soy milk instead of heavy cream.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top your soup with bacon bits, green onions, and a sprinkle of cheese for a fun twist reminiscent of a loaded baked potato.
These variations not only offer delicious options for different dietary preferences but also keep the dish exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- Can I use frozen potatoes for this soup?
- Yes, frozen diced potatoes can work, but it might change the texture slightly. Fresh potatoes yield a better consistency.
- Does this soup require soaking?
- No soaking is needed. Just chop your fresh ingredients and let the Crockpot work its magic.
- What can I serve with this soup?
- It pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
- Can I make this soup in advance?
- Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Make it a day ahead, and the flavors will deepen overnight.
- How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground hamburger
- 4 cups potatoes, diced into small pieces
- 1 cup onion, chopped finely
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, thyme, or other spices
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the ground hamburger in a skillet over medium heat. Break it apart until fully browned and drain excess fat.
- In the Crockpot, toss diced potatoes and finely chopped onions.
- Add the browned hamburger to the Crockpot, mixing well with potatoes and onions.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth and stir gently to combine.
- Set the Crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- In the last half hour of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices, then serve.
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