Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

This easy, hearty soup combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With minimal prep and a set-it-and-forget-it slow-cooking method, this recipe is ideal for busy days.

PIN FOR LATER!PIN FOR LATER!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Slow Cooking – Simply add the ingredients to the Crock Pot and let it do the work.
• Rich and Creamy Texture – A satisfying balance of savory beef, soft potatoes, and a velvety broth.
• Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with different vegetables, seasonings, or cheeses.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crock Pot (Slow Cooker) – Cooks everything evenly and enhances flavors over time.
• Large Skillet – For browning the ground beef before slow cooking.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife – To chop onions, garlic, and potatoes.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Helps mix ingredients evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh potatoes for the best texture. Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes work well.
• Brown the ground beef first to enhance flavor and remove excess grease.
• Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer, creamier soup.
• Stir cheese in at the end to prevent it from clumping or becoming grainy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound 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 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a creamier soup)

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup sour cream (for a richer texture)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned.
• Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy soup.
• Transfer the cooked beef to the Crock Pot.

2. Assemble the Soup

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

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

• Cover and cook on:
  • Low for 6 to 7 hours
  • High for 3 to 4 hours
• The soup is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Final Touches

• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream (if using) for extra richness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Hamburger Potato Soup

1. Crusty Bread

A fresh loaf of French bread or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

2. Side Salad

A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic grilled cheese pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, making a satisfying meal.

5. Garlic Bread

A buttery, garlic-infused baguette enhances the savory notes of the soup.

6. Cornbread

A slightly sweet side like warm, honey-drizzled cornbread adds a delicious contrast.

7. Steamed Green Beans

A simple, lightly seasoned green bean side keeps the meal balanced.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes

For a touch of sweetness, baked or mashed sweet potatoes provide a comforting addition.

PIN FOR LATER!

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Overcooking the Potatoes

• Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Cooking too long can make them too soft and mushy.

2. Skipping the Browning Step

• Browning the ground beef adds depth to the flavor and removes excess grease.
• Draining the fat prevents an oily texture in the soup.

3. Adding Cheese Too Early

• If using cheese, stir it in at the end of cooking to prevent clumping or separation.

4. Not Seasoning Enough

• Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Adding a pinch of extra herbs at the end can enhance the flavor.

5. Using the Wrong Type of Potatoes

• Russet potatoes make the soup thicker as they break down.
• Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better for a chunkier texture.

6. Not Stirring Before Serving

• Ingredients settle during cooking, so give the soup a good stir before ladling it into bowls.

Master these simple techniques, and you will have a perfect, flavorful soup every time.

PIN FOR LATER!

Recipe Tips for the Best Soup

• For extra thickness, mash some of the potatoes with a fork before serving.
• For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of ground beef and swap half-and-half for low-fat milk.
• For more flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika.
• For a cheesy twist, mix in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda at the end.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer – Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Best way to freeze – Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave – Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round to prevent uneven heating.
• Adjust consistency – If the soup thickens in storage, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

PIN FOR LATER!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes. Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though the flavor may be milder.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using cornstarch as a thickener.

What type of potatoes work best?

• Russet potatoes will break down slightly, making the soup thicker.
• Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape for a chunkier texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes. Carrots, celery, corn, peas, or green beans make great additions.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?

Yes. Simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Why is my soup too thick?

The starch from the potatoes naturally thickens the broth. Add extra beef broth or milk to thin it out as needed.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy milk, and substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a warm, creamy, and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or cold days. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, home-cooked meals. Whether you customize it with extra vegetables, swap proteins, or adjust the seasonings, this soup is a versatile and delicious choice for any occasion.