If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re going to love this Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe. It’s packed with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy broth that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want that cozy, comforting vibe without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is like your favorite comfort food, but even better because it’s slow-cooked to perfection, letting all the flavors meld into one unforgettable bowl of goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that work together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role: from the hearty potatoes and savory beef to the aromatic herbs and creamy finish, making this soup a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that gives the soup its savory depth.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity, sautéed to release its natural flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle punch of warmth and aroma.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: The star ingredient that makes the soup comforting and filling.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced: Offer a touch of natural sweetness and color.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped: Adds an earthy crunch and balances flavors.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid foundation, uniting all ingredients.
- 1 cup milk: Makes the soup creamy and smooth without overpowering.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, melty richness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the soup to a luscious consistency.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the flour mixture.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a mild herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, fragrant touch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a slight kick.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh, bright finish.
How to Make Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This step builds the foundation of rich flavor. Once the beef is browned, drain the excess fat for a cleaner taste, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them cook together until they’re fragrant and softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. This combo adds a beautiful savory aroma that makes you eager for what’s coming next.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer your beef mixture to the crockpot and toss in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and all the herbs and spices: parsley, thyme, salt, black pepper, paprika, and your optional crushed red pepper flakes. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together to unite all those wonderful flavors before cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking lets the potatoes become tender and allows the flavors to slowly develop into a harmonious blend. This step is perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready without constant attention.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan and whisk in the flour, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. Then slowly add the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This creamy base elevates the soup’s texture and richness to the next level.
Step 5: Final Touches in the Crockpot
Pour the milk mixture into the crockpot along with the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Give everything a good stir, allowing the cheese to melt and blend with the sour cream for that irresistible creamy finish. Let it cook uncovered until it’s heated through and thickened, about 20 to 30 minutes.
How to Serve Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the soup. If you want a little extra zing, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for some cheesy indulgence.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots—perfect for soaking up every last drop. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a homey feel or in mason jars for a fun and portable option. You can also create a soup bar with different toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or croutons so everyone can customize their bowl just the way they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overtime, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but be aware that the potatoes may change texture slightly. Freeze in portioned, airtight containers for up to 3 months. To maintain best quality, stir gently after thawing to recombine any separated ingredients.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend all the creamy goodness back together. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté function for browning the beef and vegetables, then cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Use natural release and proceed with adding the creamy mixture as usual.
What type of potatoes work best in this Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during slow cooking but still become tender and creamy.
Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk for a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also replace sour cream with a plant-based equivalent or coconut yogurt for a similar tangy creaminess.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some corn, green beans, or peas during the last hour of cooking to boost the veggie content and add extra layers of flavor and texture.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If the soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can mix a little extra flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking, allowing it to thicken up nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of this Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe simmered low and slow until it’s perfectly creamy and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to relax, unwind, and savor every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or simply for yourself, this soup is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cozy Potato & Hamburger Crockpot Soup is a comforting and creamy slow cooker meal featuring tender ground beef, hearty potatoes, and fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. Rich with cheddar cheese and a hint of herbs, it’s an easy one-pot dinner perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Thickening and Fats
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Drain the excess fat to avoid greasiness. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Move the beef mixture into the crockpot and add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, beef broth, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The soup is ready when the vegetables are tender and flavors melded.
- Prepare the Thickener: About 30 minutes before serving, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup.
- Add Milk and Dairy: Slowly whisk in the milk into the roux until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. Pour this mixture into the crockpot along with the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Finish Cooking: Continue cooking the soup in the crockpot, uncovered if possible, until the cheese has melted and the soup achieves a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a richer soup, substitute half-and-half for the milk.
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor.
- To increase the vegetable content, add corn or green beans during the slow cooking process.
- For a gluten-free option, replace flour with cornstarch as a thickening agent.
