There’s nothing quite like coming home to a bowl of warm, comforting soup after a long day. This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup has a way of wrapping you in cozy nostalgia, evoking memories of chilly evenings spent gathered around the table. It’s a recipe I often turn to when I want something hearty yet effortless. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy goodness is simply irresistible. Plus, with minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
What makes this recipe special
In a world full of complicated recipes, this one shines bright for its simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how just a handful of ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also budget-friendly. Perfect for families, this creamy soup is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Toss it all into the crockpot, and you can step away to handle other evening activities.
“This soup has become a staple in our home! It’s easy to make, and even my picky eater loves it. There’s something about the creaminess paired with hearty potatoes that makes it so comforting.”
Preparing Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Making this soup is a straightforward affair that will have your mouth watering. Remember, the crockpot really does the heavy lifting here, allowing you to enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers away. This can be a great weeknight meal or even a dish you prepare ahead of time for a gathering. Here’s how it all comes together:
- Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet until it’s fully cooked. Let the sizzle and the aroma of beef fill your kitchen—nothing beats it!
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, place it in your crockpot alongside 4 diced medium potatoes, 1 chopped onion, and 2 chopped carrots.
- Next, pour in 3 cups of beef broth, then add a 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup and a teaspoon of garlic powder. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Trust me, this flavor combination is a game changer.
- Cover and let it work its magic—cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes become tender.
- Nearing the end of cooking, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, allowing it to heat through for about 15 minutes.
What you’ll need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather what you’ll need. These ingredients are pretty straightforward, so you might already have them on hand:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter version. If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, a homemade roux with chicken broth can work beautifully too!
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Here’s a concise guide to follow:
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Transfer the cooked beef to your crockpot. Mix in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and carrots.
- Pour in the beef broth along with the cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and season well with salt and pepper.
- Cover the crockpot and let it do its thing: cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream. Let everything heat through for about 15 minutes before ready to serve.
Best ways to enjoy it
As you ladle this glorious soup into bowls, consider pairing it with some crusty bread for dipping or a crisp green salad to balance out the creaminess. The bread becomes the ultimate tool for savoring every last drop. You can also top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This soup stores beautifully. To keep it fresh, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for future meals! Just remember to let it fully cool before placing it in the freezer to avoid unwanted ice crystals.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it either in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, giving it a good stir. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to retain that luscious texture.
Helpful cooking tips
A couple of tricks can take this soup to the next level. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the crockpot before stirring in the heavy cream. For an extra flavor boost, sauté the onions and carrots in the same skillet you used for the beef—those fond flavors will integrate beautifully into the soup.
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe! You could add in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for a touch of green. If you want a kick, a dash of cayenne or some diced jalapeños can bring that heat. And for those adventurous palates, a sprinkle of cheese on top right before serving transforms it into a delightfully cheesy version!
FAQ
What’s the prep time for this soup?
Prep time is roughly 15-20 minutes, making it a quick start to a rewarding meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully if you prefer a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Always allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation. Freezing is also a great option—just follow the same steps!
Enjoy this warming bowl of comfort anytime you crave a hearty meal without the fuss. It’s just the kind of dish that says “home” with every spoonful!
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it is fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef to your crockpot. Mix in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and carrots.
- Pour in the beef broth along with the cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and season well with salt and pepper.
- Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let everything heat through for about 15 minutes before serving.