Warm up with this easy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup packed with hearty flavors, perfect for busy days and cozy nights. This comforting dish brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich broth, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an ideal one-pot meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a meal to share with loved ones, this Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Prep: Minimal chopping and just a few ingredients make it perfect for busy schedules.
- Comfort in Every Bowl: The warm broth combined with tender potatoes and beef is like a hug on a cold day.
- Slow Cooker Magic: Just set it and forget it, freeing up your day for other things.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors that everyone can enjoy, from picky eaters to hearty appetites.
- Stretch Your Budget: Ground beef and potatoes are affordable staples that make the dish very economical.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The great thing about the Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup is how straightforward yet flavorful the ingredient list is. Each component plays a key role—from creamy potatoes adding texture, to savory ground beef offering depth, and aromatic herbs that bring balance.
- Ground Beef: Use lean beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Gold work beautifully, providing creaminess once softened.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic flavor, essential for the soup base.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts the overall savory profile, giving the recipe depth.
- Beef Broth: Use low sodium for more control over saltiness and a rich foundation.
- Carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright color to the soup.
- Celery: Offers crunch and an earthy undertone that complements other flavors.
- Tomato Paste: Enhances umami and adds a slight tangy richness.
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and paprika provide warmth and complexity.
- Milk or Cream: Optional, for a creamy, comforting finish that balances the savory elements.
Variations for Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup
One of the best things about this Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you want to add more veggies, adjust for dietary preferences, or spice things up, the options are endless.
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles to keep it hearty and meat-free.
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan just before serving for a rich, melty twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring warmth and a little heat.
- Extra Veggies: Include corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers for more color and texture.
- Low Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower chunks to reduce carbs while keeping creaminess.
How to Make Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy. This step brings out rich, meaty flavors that will infuse the entire soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and dice the onions, carrots, and celery evenly. Mince the garlic to release its hearty aroma. Fresh vegetables are key for that classic comforting texture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Transfer the browned beef, potatoes, and chopped veggies into your crockpot. Add the tomato paste, beef broth, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking slowly allows the potatoes to soften thoroughly and the beef to become tender, creating a rich, cohesive soup that tastes like it simmered for a day.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
About 30 minutes before serving, check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For added creaminess, stir in milk or cream right before serving. Remove bay leaves, ladle into bowls, and prepare your garnishes.
Pro Tips for Making Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup
- Use Fresh Herbs: They provide brighter flavor than dried when possible, especially for garnish.
- Don’t Over-Stir: Give the crockpot space to do its magic without stirring too often, which can break up potatoes.
- Cut Potatoes Evenly: Uniform size helps all pieces cook at the same rate and ensures perfect tenderness.
- Season Gradually: Adjust salt and spices towards the end since flavors concentrate during slow cooking.
- Brown Ground Beef Thoroughly: This step builds rich flavor and improves texture in the soup.
How to Serve Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or chives add a pop of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous note. For an indulgent touch, grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top can elevate the creaminess and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every drop of that delicious broth. A simple green salad on the side provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For cozy entertaining, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic and fun experience. Alternatively, top with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. For best results, cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much after cooling, add a splash of broth or water to restore its comforting texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well, though it might produce a lighter flavor.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and texture, but peeling results in a smoother soup.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for browning and then pressure cooking for about 20 minutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as you use gluten-free broth, this soup is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with sensitivities.
How thick is this soup supposed to be?
The soup should be hearty but still spoonable—a perfect balance between broth and creamy potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Give this Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup a try for your next cozy meal. It’s easy, filling, and packs all those warm, comforting flavors we crave after a busy day. With simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, it’s a delicious way to gather loved ones around the table. You’ll soon see why this soup quickly becomes a beloved classic in your meal rotation.