Print

Hearty Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort Meals

Hearty Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort Meals - Featured Image
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn how to make delicious Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor, but lean works too)
  • 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (Russets are a good substitute)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth (homemade or low sodium store-bought)
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (for creaminess; use evaporated milk for a lighter option)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky undertone)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

If you’re missing any fresh veggies, frozen peas or corn can be great additions thrown in near the end of cooking. Mama Lu always said, “Use what you got, and make it yours.” That’s the beauty of this soup—it’s adaptable and forgiving.

Instructions

  1. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside. This step helps deepen the flavor, just like Mama Lu would do before adding ingredients to her big cast iron pot.
  2. In the same skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables to your crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything. This is where the magic begins—the crockpot will slowly meld those flavors together over hours.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for potatoes that are tender but still hold their shape, not mushy.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk or half-and-half to give the soup a creamy texture. Let it finish cooking uncovered to thicken slightly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. If you want it thicker, mash a few potatoes against the side of the crockpot and stir. That’s a trick Mama Lu used when her soups needed a little extra body.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Find it online: https://claracooking.com/crockpot-potato-hamburger-soup-recipe/