Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup: A Comforting Delight
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food combining rich flavors of tender potatoes and savory hamburger in a creamy base. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this soup is easy to prepare and will warm you on chilly days.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
- Cost: $$
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup as it blends hearty ingredients into a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a crowd-pleaser, and the effortless crockpot method means less time in the kitchen for you.
Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this soup requires minimal effort yet yields a robust flavor that’s sure to satisfy. It’s the perfect dish for serving a hungry family or inviting friends over for a casual dinner.
Context/Background
This recipe is inspired by traditional American soups, where potatoes and beef are staples. Using a crockpot harks back to vintage cooking styles, letting flavors meld over low and slow heat for ultimate depth and richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the beef could lead to blandness, so ensure it’s well-cooked.
- Adding dairy too early can cause curdling; add milk and cream at the end.
- Overcrowding the crockpot may result in uneven cooking; stick to suggested amounts.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
- For extra flavor, try sautéing garlic with the onions.
- Make sure to dice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
- Add a dash of your favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for an aromatic boost.
- Opt for higher fat content cream for extra richness and body.
Variations and Substitutions
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
- Swap ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
- Add celery or bell peppers for added vegetables.
- For a dairy-free soup, use coconut milk and omit the cream.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with a fresh green salad or warm crusty bread to complement the flavors. It’s delicious topped with shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent curdling.
Make Ahead Instructions
Consider preparing the beef and chopping vegetables the night before to save time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to start cooking.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Dietary Notes
- This recipe can be made gluten-free if all ingredients are verified gluten-free.
The Recipe
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 300 mins
Total Time: 320 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Crockpot
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Place potatoes, carrots, cooked beef, and onions into the crockpot.
- Add beef broth, salt, and pepper to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk and heavy cream, and cook for an additional 30 minutes until heated through.
Recipe Notes
- Consider using low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Community Tips and Photos
Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #CrockpotCreamyPotatoSoup on social media.
Questions and Answers
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, but be aware the texture may alter slightly upon thawing due to the cream.
- How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.