Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort meal — a hearty blend of ground beef, tender potatoes, and vegetables simmered slowly in a rich, cheesy, and creamy broth. Perfect for busy days, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers cozy, homemade flavor with minimal effort.
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Large Skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Use lean (80/20 or 85/15) and drain excess fat
- 1 large Onion, chopped Yellow or white onion works
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Jarred minced garlic works in a pinch
- 4 large Potatoes, peeled and diced Use Russet or Yukon Gold for creaminess
- 3 large Carrots, sliced Adds natural sweetness and texture
- 2 stalks Celery, sliced Add more or less to taste
- 4 cups Chicken or beef broth Use low-sodium if available
- 1 tsp Dried thyme Use 1 Tbsp fresh thyme if preferred
- 1 tsp Dried parsley Can substitute fresh parsley later
- 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika adds depth
- Salt and pepper To taste; adjust at the end
- 1 cup Heavy cream Substitute half-and-half for lighter version
- 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp or mild, freshly grated preferred
- 1 cup Milk Whole milk or 2%
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch + 2 Tbsp water (slurry) Use only if thicker consistency is desired
- Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish; adds freshness
- Extra cheddar cheese (optional) For garnish or melting on top
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Beef & Aromatics
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then add to crockpot. - Step 2: Add Vegetables & Seasonings
Add diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Stir in thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and gently mix everything together. - Step 3: Set & Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld. Avoid lifting the lid frequently. - Step 4: Stir in Dairy & Cheese
In the final 10–15 minutes, stir in heavy cream and milk. Gradually fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If needed, stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken. - Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheddar if desired. Serve hot for a creamy, hearty meal.
Notes
Tips for Best Results:
- Brown the beef before slow cooking for richer flavor.
- Use fresh-grated cheese to ensure smooth melting.
- For lighter texture, replace cream with half-and-half.
- Add extra paprika or herbs for custom flavor.
- This soup reheats beautifully — perfect for meal prep.
- Brown the beef before slow cooking for richer flavor.
- Use fresh-grated cheese to ensure smooth melting.
- For lighter texture, replace cream with half-and-half.
- Add extra paprika or herbs for custom flavor.
- This soup reheats beautifully — perfect for meal prep.