There’s something special about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s rich, hearty, and easy to prepare. Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup checks all the boxes for a comforting meal that satisfies everyone around the table. This creamy soup combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of seasonings into a flavorful dish you can set and forget.
Imagine coming home to the smell of a simmering soup that’s ready to serve. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s practical too. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Set and Forget: The crock pot does all the work while you go about your day.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to make it your own.
- Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, hearty, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup.
Main Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground beef | 1 lb |
Small onion (chopped) | 1 |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Diced potatoes | 4 cups (about 4 medium potatoes) |
Beef broth | 4 cups |
Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (15 oz) |
Milk (or half-and-half) | 1 cup |
Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
Dried parsley | 1 teaspoon |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Optional Toppings and Add-Ins
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
Fresh parsley (garnish) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Drain any excess grease before transferring the mixture to your crock pot.
3. Assemble the Soup in the Crock Pot
- Add the following to the crock pot:
- Diced potatoes
- Beef broth
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Dried thyme and parsley
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Soup
- Cover the crock pot and cook on:
- Low for 6–8 hours
- High for 3–4 hours
- The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully as the soup simmers.
5. Add the Creamy Elements
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in:
- Milk or half-and-half
- Optional: Sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Let the soup warm through without boiling to preserve its smooth texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with optional garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup
1. Use the Right Potatoes
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during slow cooking and add a creamy texture.
2. Don’t Skip the Sauté
Cooking the ground beef, onion, and garlic before adding them to the crock pot ensures deeper flavor.
3. Customize Your Soup
- Add veggies like carrots, celery, or corn for more nutrition.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
4. Check the Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Creative Variations of Hamburger Potato Soup
1. Cheese-Lover’s Twist
Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese directly into the soup for a gooey, cheesy finish.
2. Spicy Kick
Include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
3. Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
4. Veggie Boost
Add diced carrots, celery, or peas for added color and nutrients.
5. Bacon Upgrade
Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over each bowl for an extra savory touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes! Frozen diced potatoes work well and save prep time. Add them directly to the crock pot without thawing.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Refrigerate the cooked soup for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup?
Yes, but leave out the milk and sour cream, as they may separate when frozen. Add them after reheating.
4. What’s the best substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or make your own by combining milk, broth, and flour to create a creamy base.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
Mash a portion of the cooked potatoes or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, biscuits, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
A Final Note: The Comfort Food You Need
Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxing weekend, this soup is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.
Ready to Make It?
Gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and let the magic happen. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll have a dish everyone will love.
Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Wonder
Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. This one-pot wonder combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, flavorful broth for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this soup is a guaranteed hit!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings and Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Drain excess grease and transfer the mixture to your crock pot.
- Assemble the Soup
- Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, dried thyme, and parsley to the crock pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully as the soup simmers.
- Add the Creamy Elements
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk or half-and-half.
- Optional: Add sour cream for an extra creamy texture.
- Allow the soup to warm through without boiling.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Pair with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and add a creamy texture.
- Thicker Soup: Mash some of the cooked potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day!