Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup – Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

When the weather turns chilly or when you crave a warm, hearty meal, nothing hits the spot like a comforting bowl of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. This easy-to-make slow cooker soup combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy broth into a satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional, for warmth and color)
½ tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Once cooked, drain excess fat and set aside. Browning the beef first enhances the flavor of the soup and ensures it’s fully cooked.