Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish made with hearty potatoes, savory ground beef, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for busy days, this slow-cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with homestyle flavors. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a cozy dish for cold weather, this soup will become a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Just brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
• One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup with this fuss-free recipe.
• Hearty & Satisfying – Loaded with potatoes, ground beef, and a creamy broth for a filling meal.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before starting, gather the necessary kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crock Pot – A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal.
• Skillet – To brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping onions, garlic, and potatoes.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure the right balance of flavors.

Preparation Tips

• Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – They hold their texture well in soups.
• For a richer flavor, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving.

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Ingredients for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Main Ingredients:

• 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

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy finish)
• ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
• Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the Crock Pot.

2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

• Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and beef broth.
• Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk (or half-and-half), thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Slow Cook the Soup

• Cover and cook:
  • On low for 6-7 hours OR
  • On high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.

4. Final Touches

• If using, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Potato Soup

1. Crusty Bread – A warm, crusty baguette or dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a touch of sweetness and depth.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic pairing that makes the meal even more satisfying.
5. Cornbread – The slight sweetness of cornbread complements the savory soup beautifully.
6. Garlic Bread – Buttery, garlicky bread enhances the flavors and adds texture.
7. Steamed Green Beans – A simple and healthy addition to balance the meal.
8. Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits are great for soaking up the delicious broth.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even with a simple recipe, a few missteps can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for and how to fix them.

1. Not Browning the Beef First

Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful soup. Browning the beef enhances its taste and adds depth to the broth.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Potatoes

Some potatoes break down too much and turn mushy. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes hold their texture well in soups.

3. Overcooking the Soup

Cooking too long, especially on high, can make the potatoes too soft. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best consistency.

4. Not Seasoning Properly

Potatoes absorb a lot of flavor, so taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

5. Adding Dairy Too Early

Adding milk, cheese, or sour cream at the beginning can cause curdling. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a smooth, creamy texture.

6. Not Thickening the Soup If Needed

For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving. This helps create a richer consistency without needing extra ingredients.

7. Using Low-Quality Broth

The broth is a key component of this soup. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth for the best flavor.

By following these tips, you can make sure your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time.

Recipe Tips

• For a thicker soup: Mash some of the potatoes before serving to create a naturally creamy texture.
• For extra flavor: Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• For a cheesy version: Stir in extra shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
• To add more vegetables: Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added for additional texture and nutrition.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Since the soup contains dairy, freezing can slightly change its texture. To prevent separation, omit the milk, cheese, and sour cream before freezing and add them when reheating.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

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Reheating Instructions

Stovetop Method (Best for Maintaining Texture)

• Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
• If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or milk to restore its consistency.
• Heat until warmed through but do not boil to prevent curdling.

Microwave Method (Quickest Option)

• Place a portion of soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely.
• Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed.
• Add a little broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.

Reheating from Frozen

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
• Follow the stovetop or microwave reheating instructions.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and works well in this soup.

2. What’s the best type of potato for this soup?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes hold up best in soups and create a creamy texture.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use unsweetened almond milk and a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup. Skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.

4. How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your cream of mushroom soup and broth are gluten-free. Use a gluten-free thickener if needed.

5. Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes. Simmer all ingredients in a large pot for 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

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Conclusion

This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting, and hearty meal that is incredibly easy to make. Whether you need a family-friendly dinner or a cozy dish for cold nights, this slow cooker soup is a great choice.

Make it your own by adding extra vegetables, cheese, or seasonings, and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl every time.