Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Crockpot

This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Crockpot recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal. I love how ground beef, tender potatoes, and a velvety cream base come together in the slow cooker while I go about my day. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and tastes like a warm hug on a cold evening.

I first made this soup on a busy weeknight when I needed something easy but satisfying. The crockpot did all the heavy lifting while I juggled work calls and homework help. When dinnertime rolled around, the house smelled incredible, and my family devoured bowl after bowl. This creamy potato and hamburger soup has since become my go-to when I want minimal effort and maximum comfort. The combination of savory ground beef, soft potatoes, and rich cream cheese creates a soup that’s thick, flavorful, and completely satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds. I’ll be honest though, you do need to check in once near the end to add the cream, but that’s literally the only hands-on moment after the initial browning.

What You’ll Need to Make This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Before you start, gather your ingredients. I always use russet potatoes for this creamy potato hamburger soup crockpot recipe because they break down beautifully and help thicken the broth. You can substitute Yukon Gold if you prefer a firmer texture. Pro tip: softening your cream cheese on the counter for 30 minutes before adding prevents lumps and makes stirring easier. Cut it into 1-inch cubes so it melts faster.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1.5 pounds or 4 cups)
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium if watching salt intake)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed (this is key for creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Crumbled bacon, optional garnish
• Chopped green onions or chives, optional garnish
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese, optional garnish

Equipment needed: 6-quart slow cooker, large skillet, wooden spoon, whisk

How to Make This Hearty Soup in Your Slow Cooker

Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat and transfer the browned beef to your 6-quart crockpot.

Step 2: Add diced potatoes, onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery directly into the slow cooker with the beef. Don’t worry about perfect cuts; rustic pieces add to the homemade charm.

Step 3: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley over everything. Give it a good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 4: Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The vegetables should be fork-tender when done, soft enough to mash easily, and the potatoes will start to break down slightly at the edges. I prefer the low setting because the flavors develop more deeply.

Step 5: During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, add the softened cream cheese in 1-inch cubes. Stir gently and let it melt into the broth. This creates that dreamy, creamy base. Pro tip: if you see lumps, use a whisk to smooth them out.

Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything melts together into a smooth, velvety soup. Keep the heat on low during this step to prevent curdling. I know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and the soup coats the back of my spoon.

Step 7: Ladle the creamy potato hamburger soup into bowls. Top with crispy bacon crumbles, chopped chives, and extra cheddar if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Best Sides to Serve with Potato Hamburger Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread and fresh vegetables. Here are my favorite combinations:

Garlic Toast: Buttery, crispy garlic toast is perfect for dunking into the creamy broth. The garlic complements the savory flavors in the soup.

Sourdough Bread: A thick slice of tangy sourdough adds a chewy contrast to the smooth soup and soaks up every last drop.

Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy potato hamburger soup crockpot and adds fresh crunch.

Roasted Broccoli: Slightly charred broccoli florets bring a nutty flavor and healthy green element to your meal.

Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter contrast that cuts through the cream beautifully.

More Creamy Crockpot Soup Recipes

This creamy potato hamburger soup crockpot recipe offers hands-off convenience, and pairs wonderfully with other slow cooker favorites. For another version without cream cheese, try the Crockpot Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup. When you want cheddar-forward flavor in less time, the Easy Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup delivers in just 40 minutes.

For fork-tender beef chuck in the slow cooker, explore the Crockpot Beef Stew with vegetables. When you want more variety, try the classic Vegetable Beef Soup packed with carrots, celery, and green beans. These comforting soups make perfect weeknight dinners.

Storing Your Leftover Soup the Right Way

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better overnight as everything melds together.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until it reaches 165°F. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the consistency since it thickens as it sits. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring every minute until heated through to 165°F.

For longer storage, freeze this creamy potato hamburger soup for up to 2 months. I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy weeknight meals. Pro tip: dairy-based soups can separate slightly when frozen, but a good stir while reheating brings everything back together.

Common Questions About This Crockpot Soup

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