Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

This Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, rich, and soul-warming in every bite. It captures the essence of home cooking: simple ingredients, slow-simmered flavors, and a creamy texture that wraps you in comfort.

Ground beef gives this soup a satisfying depth, while tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and celery form the heart of its rustic base. The slow cooker does all the work — melding the savory broth, aromatic herbs, and velvety cream into a luscious meal that tastes like it simmered on the stove all day. Finished with melted cheddar cheese, this soup delivers a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels both familiar and indulgent.

Perfect for cold evenings, busy weekdays, or lazy weekends, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a bowl of pure, homestyle bliss.

Why People Will Love Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe:

Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl:

This soup embodies the warmth of homemade cooking — creamy, hearty, and deeply satisfying on cold or stressful days.

Effortless Yet Rewarding:

The crockpot does most of the work, letting flavors slowly develop while you go about your day — perfect for busy home cooks.

Wholesome and Filling:

Loaded with tender potatoes, carrots, celery, and ground beef, it’s a complete, well-balanced meal that’s both nourishing and hearty.

Velvety, Creamy Texture:

The blend of milk, cream, and cheddar cheese creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that feels indulgent yet homely.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing:

Its mild, savory flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a go-to comfort dish for family dinners or gatherings.

Versatile and Adaptable:

You can easily adjust the ingredients — swap proteins, add extra veggies, or tweak the seasoning — without losing its cozy charm.

Irresistible Aromas:

As it simmers slowly, your kitchen fills with a rich, savory scent that builds anticipation and warmth long before it’s served.

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef:

The foundation of the soup, adding rich, savory depth and meaty flavor that anchors the creamy broth. Its natural umami enhances every spoonful, turning a humble soup into a hearty meal.

Potatoes:

The soul of this dish — starchy, tender, and comforting. As they cook, they release natural creaminess that thickens the soup and gives it a rustic, homey texture.

Carrots & Celery:

These classic soup vegetables bring sweetness, freshness, and a subtle crunch that balance the richness of the beef and cheese.

Heavy Cream & Milk:

Together, they create a luxuriously smooth texture. The cream gives body and silkiness, while the milk lightens it just enough to keep the soup perfectly balanced.

Cheddar Cheese:

Adds that irresistible, melty, cheesy goodness that makes this soup extra comforting — rich, tangy, and velvety.

Broth & Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, Paprika):

The aromatic trio that builds layers of flavor — earthy, fragrant, and subtly smoky. These seasonings elevate the soup from simple to soul-soothing.

Garlic & Onion:

The aromatic backbone — sautéed with beef to infuse the entire dish with warmth, sweetness, and depth.

Expert Tips:

Brown the Beef Properly — Build the Base Flavor:

Don’t rush the browning step. Let the beef develop a rich golden crust before adding onions and garlic. This caramelization deepens the soup’s flavor, creating that savory foundation that makes the broth irresistible.

Layer Ingredients Strategically:

Place dense vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the crockpot, followed by the browned beef mixture on top. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld gradually as the soup simmers.

Choose the Right Potato:

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best — they soften beautifully and naturally thicken the soup. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerlings, as they hold their shape too firmly and won’t create that creamy body.

Control the Creaminess:

Add the heavy cream, milk, and cheese only in the final 20–30 minutes of cooking. This prevents curdling and ensures a silky-smooth texture. If you prefer a richer finish, blend a small portion of the soup before adding the dairy.

Adjust Thickness to Your Preference:

For a thicker soup, mix in the cornstarch slurry or mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the crockpot. For a lighter version, skip the slurry and add a bit more broth.

Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot:

Leave space at the top (at least 1–2 inches) to prevent bubbling over and to allow proper circulation of heat. Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking.

Season Gradually, Not All at Once:

Salt and pepper in layers — a little when browning the meat, more when adding broth, and a final adjustment right before serving. This layering ensures every element is perfectly seasoned.

Let It Rest Before Serving:

After cooking, let the soup rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and the texture thicken slightly for a more cohesive, luxurious mouthfeel.

Garnish Thoughtfully:

A sprinkle of sharp cheddar, fresh parsley, or even a dash of smoked paprika at the end can elevate both presentation and taste — turning a simple family dish into a restaurant-quality comfort bowl.

Store and Reheat Like a Pro:

This soup reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency — the flavors often deepen overnight.

Recipe of Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

3 large carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

4 cups chicken or beef broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Prepare the Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef mixture to a crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. If you prefer a thicker soup, add the cornstarch mixture and stir well. Continue to cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Important Notes When Making Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Use Quality Ground Beef for Best Flavor:

Choose 85–90% lean ground beef for the ideal balance of flavor and richness. Too much fat can make the soup greasy, while overly lean beef may taste dry. Drain any excess fat after browning to keep the broth clean and smooth.

Don’t Skip the Browning Step:

Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot is essential — it enhances the depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, giving your soup that signature savory backbone.

Balance the Liquids Carefully:

The potatoes will absorb liquid as they cook, so keep extra broth or milk on hand. If the soup thickens too much, stir in warm broth gradually until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Add Dairy Toward the End:

Always stir in heavy cream, milk, and cheese during the final 15–20 minutes of cooking on low heat. Adding them too early can cause curdling or separation due to the prolonged heat exposure.

Cut Vegetables Uniformly:

Dice potatoes, carrots, and celery into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. This also improves texture — every spoonful should have the perfect balance of tender vegetables and savory beef.

Adjust Seasoning After Cooking:

Since flavors can mellow during long, slow cooking, always taste and adjust before serving. A final pinch of salt, pepper, or paprika right before serving brightens the flavor beautifully.

Be Gentle When Stirring:

Once the potatoes have softened, stir carefully to prevent them from breaking down too much and turning the soup overly starchy. A light hand keeps the texture hearty and appealing.

Optional Thickening Method:

For a thicker, chowder-like soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry or lightly mash a few potatoes directly into the broth. For a lighter version, skip this step and enjoy a more fluid, brothy texture.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the soup to rest for 5–10 minutes after turning off the heat. This helps the flavors harmonize and slightly thickens the base for a richer, creamier result.

Leftovers Improve in Flavor:

Like most slow-cooked soups, this one tastes even better the next day. As it sits, the flavors of beef, vegetables, and cream meld into a deeper, more balanced taste. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to preserve the texture.

How to Enjoy Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup After Cooking

1. Let It Rest Before Serving:

Once the soup has finished cooking, turn off the crockpot and let it sit uncovered for 5–10 minutes. This short resting time allows the flavors to settle and the texture to thicken slightly, giving the soup a smooth, velvety consistency.

2. Serve It Piping Hot:

Ladle the soup into warm bowls — the heat enhances its creamy aroma and rich, comforting flavor. Warming the bowls beforehand (with hot water or in the oven for a few minutes) helps keep the soup hot for longer.

3. Elevate It with Garnishes:

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for brightness and color.
Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese for added richness, or a few crispy bacon crumbles for a smoky crunch. A pinch of paprika or black pepper gives the final touch of warmth and contrast.

4. Pair It Perfectly:

Serve with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or warm biscuits to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness and balances the meal beautifully.

5. Add a Cozy Beverage:

Pair your bowl with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or enjoy it with a mug of hot tea or apple cider for a comforting, homey feel — especially on chilly evenings.

6. Customize Each Bowl:

For spice lovers, drizzle a few drops of hot sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you enjoy a touch of acidity, a small squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the creaminess.

7. Make It a Meal:

This soup is hearty enough to be a main dish, but you can serve it with roasted vegetables or a small sandwich (like a grilled cheese or turkey melt) for a cozy, complete dinner.

8. Store and Reheat the Right Way:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, stirring often, and add a splash of milk or broth to bring back its silky texture — it tends to thicken as it cools.

9. Freeze for Future Comfort:

You can freeze this soup (before adding the dairy) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and finish with cream and cheese when reheating for a fresh-made taste.

10. Enjoy the Experience:

Sit back, savor slowly, and let the warmth of this creamy, cheesy, and hearty soup fill your senses. Each spoonful tells a story of comfort — rich, rustic, and made with love — the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a moment of peace and pleasure.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 400 kcal | Protein: 20 grams | Fat: 25 grams | Saturated fat: 12 grams | Carbohydrates: 25 grams | Fiber: 3 grams | Sugars: 5 grams | Cholesterol: 70 mg | Sodium: 700 mg | Potassium: 800 mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe.

Ground turkey will make the soup leaner, though it may slightly change the flavor profile.

For a bit more flavor, you can use ground turkey breast with a small amount of olive oil or butter.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time.

You can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

The flavors may actually improve after sitting for a while!

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and add a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much.

You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you want to add some spice to your soup, you can stir in some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño when you add the seasonings.

Alternatively, you can serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for each person to adjust to their preferred spice level.

Can I use different vegetables in this soup?

Yes! This recipe is very adaptable.

You can add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand.

For example, peas, corn, or green beans are great additions.

You can also add spinach or kale for extra greens.

Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add tougher veggies like squash or parsnips.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by using non-dairy alternatives.

Use a dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk) in place of regular milk, and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative (like nutritional yeast or vegan cheddar).

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy cream substitute for a rich, creamy texture.

Be sure to check the broth to make sure it’s also dairy-free.

Do I have to brown the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot?

While it’s not strictly necessary, browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot helps to develop flavor and reduces excess fat.

It also ensures the meat is fully cooked.

If you prefer a quicker option, you can skip browning and add the raw beef directly to the crockpot, but make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Can I cook this soup on high in the crockpot instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours.

However, cooking on low will allow the flavors to develop more fully and give the vegetables a chance to cook more evenly.

If you’re in a rush, cooking on high is perfectly fine, but keep an eye on the texture of the vegetables to make sure they don’t overcook.

What can I do if the soup turns out too thick?

If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can easily thin it out by adding a little extra broth or milk.

Start with small amounts, stirring and adding more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

If you’re reheating leftovers, you might need to add a little liquid since the soup thickens when it sits.

Can I make this soup in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?

Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop.

Brown the ground beef in a large pot, then add the vegetables, broth, and seasonings.

Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.

Let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Stir in the cream, cheese, and milk just before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping in the soup?

To prevent the cheese from clumping, make sure to stir it in gradually, after the soup has finished cooking.

Also, it helps to use freshly shredded cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts.

Adding a bit of milk or cream when you stir in the cheese will also help it melt smoothly and evenly.