Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Introduction

Are you looking for a comforting and hearty soup that is both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup recipe. This soup is the perfect combination of creamy potatoes, flavorful hamburger, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a one-pot wonder that will warm you up on chilly evenings and satisfy your taste buds with its rich and savory flavors.

What makes this recipe even more special is that it can be prepared in a crockpot, allowing you to effortlessly cook a delicious meal while you go about your day. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a soup that is incredibly flavorful and comforting. Plus, the convenience of using a crockpot means you can simply set it and forget it, leaving you with more time to relax or take care of other tasks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup recipe is a must-try. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, this soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can easily add or substitute ingredients to make it your own.

Another reason to love this recipe is its hearty and comforting nature. The combination of creamy potatoes and flavorful hamburger creates a soup that is both filling and satisfying. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold winter day or to enjoy as a cozy dinner during the fall season. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, making it a nutritious option for the whole family.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional ingredient substitutions:

• If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, peas, or green beans to add more variety to the soup.
• If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
4. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crockpot.
5. Pour in the beef broth, milk, and heavy cream.
6. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir everything together to combine.
8. Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
9. Once the potatoes are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!

Pro tips for success:

• For a richer flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the crockpot to create a creamier texture.
• Feel free to garnish the soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

1. Cheesy Potato & Hamburger Soup: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.

2. Spicy Potato & Hamburger Soup: Add some diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the soup a spicy kick.

3. Loaded Potato & Hamburger Soup: Top the soup with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded baked potato-inspired version.

For dietary substitutions:

• If you’re lactose intolerant, you can use lactose-free milk and cream or substitute them with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure that the beef broth you use is gluten-free or use homemade gluten-free beef broth.
• If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can omit the potatoes and add extra vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini instead.

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is delicious on its own but can be paired with some complementary side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are a few suggestions:

• Fresh crusty bread or dinner rolls
• A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?

A: Absolutely! To make this soup on the stovetop, follow the same steps but cook the soup over medium heat in a large pot instead of using a crockpot. Simmer the soup for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

A: Of course! This soup is very versatile, and you can add or substitute vegetables to suit your taste. Some great options include corn, peas, green beans, or even spinach.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients, it’s a soup that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab your crockpot and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade soup that will keep you coming back for more.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. Share your experience with us in the comments below and let us know if you made any variations or substitutions. Happy cooking!