As the seasons change and the days grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe the soul. The Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the richness of ground beef, the creaminess of dairy, and the comforting warmth of potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even special occasions when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Introduction to the Recipe
This soup is a masterclass in comfort food, blending the savory flavors of ground beef, onions, garlic, and a variety of vegetables with the velvety smoothness of milk and cheese. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 6 cups peeled and diced Russet potatoes
- 2 cups of your favorite frozen vegetable mix (such as peas, carrots, green beans)
- 3 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Transfer to Crockpot
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, transfer the ground beef and onion mixture to your crockpot or slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Broth, Potatoes, and Vegetables
Pour in the chicken broth, add the diced Russet potatoes, frozen vegetable mix, dried basil, and parsley flakes. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will break down the potatoes and ground beef, creating a smooth and hearty soup.
Step 5: Thicken and Add Dairy
About an hour before serving, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the soup and stir well. Then, add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the soup. Cover the crockpot and let the cheese melt, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through, ladle it into bowls and serve. You can garnish with additional parsley or chives if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This soup is best served hot, straight from the crockpot. You can serve it with a side salad, bread sticks, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to three months. When reheating, you can add a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in the crockpot or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Helpful Notes
- Potato Choice: Use Russet potatoes for this recipe as they break down and add starch to the soup, making it thicker and tastier. Avoid using red potatoes as they will remain in one piece.
- Customization: Feel free to use ground chicken or turkey if you prefer. You can also customize the vegetables to your family’s liking, using peas, carrots, green beans, or any other mix.
- Flavor Adjustment: Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more basil, parsley, or any other herbs you prefer.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: “”The key to a great soup is using high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables and lean ground beef make all the difference,”” advises Karlynn Johnston.
- Don’t Overcook: “”Make sure not to overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but still hold their shape slightly,”” suggests Karen Petersen.
- Experiment with Cheese: “”Adding different types of cheese, like cream cheese or cheddar, can give your soup a unique flavor profile,”” recommends a chef from The Country Cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
A: Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply follow the same steps but simmer the soup in a large stockpot until the potatoes are tender.
Q: How do I prevent the milk from curdling?
A: To prevent the milk from curdling, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth before adding it to the soup. This helps to thicken the soup without causing the milk to curdle.
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: While Russet potatoes are recommended for their starch content, you can experiment with other types. However, Russet potatoes will yield the best results in terms of thickness and flavor.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check the ingredients of your broth to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes approximately 10 servings, depending on serving size.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Absolutely You can add or substitute various vegetables such as carrots, celery, or any other favorites to suit your taste.
Q: Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
A: While the recipe is optimized for a slow cooker, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot. Cook the ground beef and vegetables first, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes.
Q: How do I reheat frozen soup?
A: To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge or thaw it quickly by submerging the container in cold water. Then, reheat the soup in the crockpot or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q: How long does it take to prepare this soup?
A: The prep time for this soup is about 20 minutes, and the total cooking time is 4-8 hours depending on whether you use the low or high setting on your crockpot.
By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a deliciously rich and comforting Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy”