Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. With a mix of ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth, this hearty soup delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it allows you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home as it cooks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and carbs, making it a satisfying dish that will keep everyone full.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later use.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Here’s what you should gather before starting your cooking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool makes cooking simple by allowing you to set it and forget it while your meal cooks evenly over several hours.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef, which adds depth of flavor before combining with other ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables like onions and potatoes.

Ingredients

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 Optional Additions

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)

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How to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the browned beef into your crockpot.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

Add the following ingredients to the crockpot:
* Chopped onion
* Minced garlic
* Diced potatoes
* Beef broth

Stir everything together until well combined. Then stir in:
* Cream of mushroom soup
* Milk (or half-and-half)
* Dried thyme
* Dried parsley
* Salt and pepper

Make sure everything is mixed thoroughly.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check occasionally; you’re looking for tender potatoes and a slightly thickened soup.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. For extra creaminess, add sour cream at this stage as well.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup hot!

How to Serve Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Serving your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a delightful experience, especially when you consider the various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty French Bread: Serve slices of crusty French bread on the side for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These add a cheesy, buttery taste that pairs beautifully with the soup.

Top it Off

• Shredded Cheese: Offer shredded cheddar cheese for those who want an extra cheesy touch.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, enhancing the overall flavor.

Create a Meal

• Side Salad: A light garden salad can balance the richness of the soup.
• Pickles: Serve dill pickles for a crunchy contrast and added flavor.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

To ensure your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and herbs will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure you have enough space in your crockpot for even cooking; overcrowding can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully, giving depth to the soup.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like carrots or corn for variety and nutrition.
• Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Complementing your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds crunch and freshness.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup; they’re easy to make ahead.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer nutrition and vibrant colors; season them simply with olive oil and herbs.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for scooping up soup while adding a cheesy flair.
5. Baked Potatoes: A baked potato topped with butter and chives makes for a hearty addition alongside the soup.
6. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can bring crunchy texture and tangy flavor that pairs nicely with hearty dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown the ground beef first for richer taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If you don’t add enough broth or liquid, your soup may become too thick. Always follow the recipe for precise liquid measurements.
• Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long can make them mushy. Check for tenderness around the end of cooking time to avoid this.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season adequately can result in bland soup. Don’t skip salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor.
• Neglecting Customization Options: Sticking strictly to the recipe might limit your enjoyment. Feel free to add vegetables or spices that you love, making it your own.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup last?

This soup lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge and up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables like carrots or corn, or use different cheeses for varied flavors.

What are some good sides with Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup?

Serve with crusty bread, salad, or crackers for a complete meal that complements this hearty soup.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better as leftovers after the flavors meld together.

Can I make this soup without ground beef?

Certainly! You can substitute ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a deliciously hearty meal that brings comfort on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!