Creamy Crockpot Hamburger and Potato Soup: A Heartwarming Comfort Food Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Crockpot Hamburger and Potato Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich blend of cheeses for a satisfying meal. Made in a slow cooker, it’s easy to prepare and lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it hot with crusty bread for a hearty dinner that’s sure to warm your soul.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups whole milk or half & half for a silkier texture
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for thickening
• Optional: 2 tablespoons butter for added creaminess
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or fresh parsley

Preparation

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer to a crockpot.
2. Prepare the vegetables: dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Add them to the crockpot.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add dried parsley, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk (or half & half) and shredded cheddar cheese. If using flour for thickening, mix it with a small amount of milk first, then add to the crockpot. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup thickens.
6. For extra creaminess, add butter just before serving.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Hamburger and Potato Soup

• Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for a creamy texture.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—add a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
• For a thicker soup, mash some potatoes directly in the crockpot or create a flour-milk slurry.

Why Slow Cooker is Best

The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. The potatoes absorb the aromatic broth and spices, creating a velvety base, while the ground beef stays tender and juicy. It’s a hands-off method that guarantees delicious results every time.

Variations to Try

• Add chopped celery, corn, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Substitute ground beef with spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• For a low-carb option, replace potatoes with cauliflower for a creamy, guilt-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with crackers, salad, or garlic toast. Top with extra cheese or crispy bacon bits for a gourmet touch. Enjoy!