Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, hearty, and creamy soup that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal. Made with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a creamy broth, this crockpot recipe is easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite. Just throw the ingredients in your slow cooker, let it simmer, and come home to a warm and satisfying meal. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook’s Notes and Tips
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened.

Step 2: Assemble the Crockpot

3. Transfer to Crockpot: Transfer the cooked ground beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
4. Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, broth, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

6. Make the Roux: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
7. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Continue cooking until the mixture has thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Finish the Soup

8. Add Creamy Mixture to Crockpot: Stir the creamy roux mixture into the crockpot, mixing well to combine. Add the frozen corn, if using.
9. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture. Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on LOW.

Step 5: Serve

10. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

• Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. You could also substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well in this soup due to their starchy nature, but Yukon gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier texture.
• Roux: Making the roux ensures that the soup thickens properly. Be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or green beans for added nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Bacon Topping: Top the soup with crispy cooked bacon for added flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth.
• Green Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast to the rich, hearty soup.
• Cheese and Crackers: Serve with extra shredded cheese and crackers for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Frozen Potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes to save time. Add them directly to the crockpot without thawing, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I Freeze This Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, but note that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or more milk instead of heavy cream, though the soup may be slightly less rich.

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect comfort food for any time of year. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy broth makes this soup both hearty and satisfying. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a warm, cozy meal with ease. Gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let it do the work—come home to a delicious, comforting bowl of soup that the whole family will love!

Happy Cooking!