Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a family-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this soup is easy to prepare and slow-cooks to perfection. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s a go-to comfort meal that can please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this soup allows you to enjoy a hot meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef and potatoes, this dish is sure to keep everyone satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand.
• Set-It-and-Forget-It Cooking: Simply toss everything in the Crockpot, set the timer, and let it do all the work while you enjoy your day.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this soup fits right in with any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Good preparation ensures cooking goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): This tool allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors while tenderizing ingredients effortlessly.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat before adding it to the soup for extra flavor.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently, ensuring uniform cooking.

Ingredients

This easy, hearty soup combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth for the perfect comfort meal. With minimal prep and slow cooking, it’s a great set-it-and-forget-it dish for busy days.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a creamier soup)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional)

How to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Transfer the browned beef to your Crockpot.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

In the Crockpot:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
2. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or half-and-half), dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover your Crockpot:
1. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once cooked:
1. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and sour cream (optional) until fully melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the warm soup into bowls:
1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or crackers for dipping!

How to Serve Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner, there are plenty of ways to serve this delicious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add a delicious garlic twist that complements the soup’s savory notes.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are great for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a crunch and vibrant color.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits can enhance the flavor profile with salty, smoky goodness.
• Extra Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top makes it even more indulgent.

As Part of a Meal

• Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Pickles: Crunchy dill pickles provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

To make your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Brown the Beef Properly: Browning adds depth and richness, so don’t skip this step!
• Adjust Consistency: If you like it thicker, let it cook longer; if thinner, add extra broth or milk.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Serving side dishes with your soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the soup beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and flavors.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth.
5. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed veggies add color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid when preparing your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup.

• Missing Ingredients: Always double-check your ingredients before you start. Forgetting even one can change the soup’s flavor and consistency.
• Overcooking Ground Beef: Brown your ground beef just until cooked; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown color without drying it out.
• Inadequate Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning during cooking. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor.
• Too Much Liquid: Be mindful of the liquid amounts in the recipe. Adding too much broth or milk can lead to a watery soup.
• Skipping the Creaminess: For that rich texture, don’t forget the optional sour cream or cheddar cheese. They enhance both flavor and creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this soup a day before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready.

What potatoes are best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well due to their texture and ability to hold up during slow cooking.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup?

Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my soup if it’s too watery?

You can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) during cooking to thicken it up.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh garden salad.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables to make it truly your own!