Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This easy-to-make soup combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy base, making it the ultimate comfort food. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich, flavorful bowl of soup that’s sure to satisfy. Topped with shredded cheddar and fresh green onions, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Cover and cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Once cooked, give the soup a final stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (on high)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For more nutrition, add carrots, celery, or corn to the soup. These can be added at the same time as the potatoes.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup.
• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some diced green chilies for a little heat.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add lentils or beans for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of extra milk or broth if needed to thin it out. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be a little lighter but still delicious.
2. Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?
   While fresh potatoes are ideal, you can use frozen diced potatoes. However, they may release more liquid during cooking, so you might need to adjust the amount of broth.
3. Can I skip the cream of mushroom soup?
   Yes, if you prefer, you can use a homemade creamy base (such as a mixture of heavy cream and flour or a can of cream of chicken soup) or simply increase the amount of milk and add more seasonings.
4. How do I know when the potatoes are tender?
   The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. If they are still firm after the cooking time, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Can I cook this soup on the stovetop instead of in a crockpot?
   Yes, you can cook this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot for 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Be sure to stir occasionally.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
   This soup is delicious on its own or served with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
7. Can I make this soup spicy?
   Yes! To add some heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
8. Can I use a different type of broth?
   Yes, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
9. Can I add cheese directly into the soup?
   You can certainly stir shredded cheese into the soup at the end of cooking for extra creaminess. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese work well.
10. Can I use other types of potatoes?
    Any type of potato will work in this recipe, though russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes may hold their shape better but may result in a less creamy texture.

Conclusion

Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect combination of rich flavors and comfort. With its simple ingredients and slow-cooked tenderness, it’s an easy, hands-off meal that your whole family will love. Whether you enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it as a cozy weekend dinner, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe for comfort food lovers. Top it off with cheese and green onions for extra flavor, and you’ve got a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

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