The Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender ground beef with hearty potatoes and vibrant vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. This slow-cooked delight brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or when you crave a nourishing dish. Preparing this soup is a breeze, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully over time. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete and fulfilling meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 pound ground beef
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1 cup chopped onion
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1 cup diced carrots
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1 cup diced potatoes
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1/2 cup chopped green pepper or celery (optional)
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1 cup tomato juice
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1 1/2 teaspoons salt
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1/8 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon seasoned salt
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4 cups milk, divided
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1/3 cup flour
Directions:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and cook until transparent.
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Transfer the meat and onions to a crockpot. Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and green pepper or celery (if using). Add the tomato juice, salt, black pepper, and seasoned salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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In a small bowl, mix the flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup and bring it to a boil, stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
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Add the remaining 3 cups of milk, stirring often. Heat through without bringing to a boil. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 279 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Easy and Convenient
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few steps of browning the beef and chopping the vegetables, everything goes into the crockpot, and the slow cooker does the rest. There’s no need to stand over a stove or worry about constant stirring. You can set it in the morning and return to a warm, ready-to-eat meal in the evening.
2. Creamy and Flavorful
The combination of tender potatoes and savory ground beef results in a soup that is both creamy and rich in flavor. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the taste and making every spoonful a delight. The use of milk or cream adds a smooth and luscious texture, making it even more comforting.
3. Budget-Friendly and Nutritious
This soup is made with simple, affordable ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. Potatoes, ground beef, carrots, and onions come together to create a filling meal without breaking the bank. It’s also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty dish.
4. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best parts of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your preferences. For example:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
- Use different seasonings to enhance the flavor to your liking.
- Make it dairy-free by substituting plant-based milk and thickening agents.
The Secret to a Perfect Crockpot Soup
While this recipe is incredibly simple, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results:
1. Brown the Meat First
Though it may be tempting to toss everything directly into the slow cooker, browning the ground beef beforehand enhances the depth of flavor. This step helps to caramelize the meat and remove excess grease, ensuring a cleaner, richer taste.
2. Cut the Potatoes Evenly
For an even cooking process, make sure to cut your potatoes into uniform-sized cubes. This prevents some pieces from being too soft while others remain undercooked.
3. Add the Dairy at the Right Time
To maintain the creaminess of the soup, it’s best to add milk or cream towards the end of the cooking process. Adding it too early can cause it to separate or curdle due to prolonged exposure to heat.
4. Thicken the Soup If Needed
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold milk before adding it to the soup. Stirring it in gradually will create a smooth, rich texture.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup is incredibly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with some delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Green Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Crackers or Breadsticks: For added crunch, serve with crispy crackers or seasoned breadsticks.
- Shredded Cheese & Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor. A handful of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
Storage and Reheating
This soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding dairy, as milk and cream can separate when frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the dairy while reheating.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves easy, comforting meals. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and effortless preparation make it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its budget-friendly ingredients and customizable options, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply looking for a warm meal to enjoy on a chilly evening, this slow-cooker soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful. Try it today and experience the rich, comforting flavors that make this dish a classic favorite!