If you’re searching for a warm hug in a bowl, the Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy broth that simmers together effortlessly in your slow cooker. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want something homey and warm waiting for you. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite to come back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of a white marble surface with several small white bowls and dishes arranged neatly. At the center is a bowl filled with raw ground meat that has a coarse texture and a pinkish-red color. Surrounding it are bowls containing chopped orange carrots, cubed pale yellow potatoes, diced white onions, chopped green celery, chickpeas, and shredded cheese that is a mix of white and yellow. Additional white dishes hold spices including black pepper and dried herbs, a small pile of white flour, two cloves of garlic, a pat of butter, and a small container of light creamy liquid. A clear glass container holds a bright golden-yellow broth. Fresh green parsley leaves lie near the bottom left corner. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the colors and textures of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this soup’s incredible flavor. Each component plays a special role, from the creamy potatoes to the savory beef, combined with a touch of spice and fresh veggies that bring texture and color to every bowl.

Ground beef (1 pound): Provides rich, hearty flavor and protein to make the soup truly filling.
Medium onion, diced (1): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when slow-cooked with the meat.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Offers aromatic warmth that enhances every other ingredient.
Potatoes, peeled and diced (4 cups): Yukon Gold or russet give a creamy texture and earthy, comforting taste.
Diced carrots (2 cups): Introduce a slight sweetness and bright pop of color.
Celery stalks, diced (2): Add a gentle crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
Frozen corn (1 cup): Brings subtle sweetness and adds a nice contrast to the creamy broth.
Beef broth (4 cups): The flavorful base for simmering everything to perfection.
Dried Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): Infuses herbs like oregano and basil for herbal warmth.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Delivers a mild smoky depth that rounds out the savory elements.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential to bring out and balance all the natural flavors.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
Butter (3 tablespoons): Used to create a silky roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Helps achieve that creamy, luscious texture in the broth.
Whole milk or heavy cream (1 ½ cups): Adds richness and smoothness, making every bite indulgent.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the soup, providing a cheesy comfort that’s irresistible.
Fresh chopped parsley: Perfect for a fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the bowl before serving.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef

Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker insert so nothing sticks, then take your ground beef and brown it in a large skillet over medium heat. Breaking it apart as it cooks helps it brown evenly and melt into the soup nicely. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat for a smoother broth!

Step 2: Combine All the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker, then add the diced onion, minced garlic, potatoes, carrots, celery, frozen corn, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to mix all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it on Low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, High for 3 to 4 hours. The goal here is to let the vegetables become tender and the flavors meld into that signature rich soup base.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Roux

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s lightly golden and fragrant, which is exactly what you want for your thick, creamy base.

Step 5: Add Milk and Cheese for Creaminess

Slowly whisk in the whole milk or heavy cream to your roux until it’s smooth and starting to thicken. Then stir this creamy mixture along with the shredded cheddar cheese back into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for the last 30 minutes to let all that creamy, cheesy goodness fully simmer into the soup.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

When the soup is thick, creamy, and irresistibly cozy, ladle it into bowls and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and brightness. This final touch makes every serving feel special.

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe

The image shows a black slow cooker filled with layered ingredients. At the bottom is a dark brown, broth-like liquid with small corn kernels scattered within. On top of the broth is a thick layer of creamy white sauce partially covering the surface, leaving some parts of the broth visible. Above that, there is a generous pile of shredded pale yellow and white cheese placed in the center, creating a mound that contrasts with the liquid layers underneath. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a classic, but you can also try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for extra indulgence. These little touches turn simple bowls of soup into a feast for your eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside warm crusty bread, garlic rolls, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. A crisp side adds both texture and a refreshing contrast that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the soup in rustic bread bowls for that wow-factor presentation. It makes the meal feel festive and cozy—perfect for sharing with family or friends on a chilly evening.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve all those rich, savory flavors and creamy textures.

Freezing

While the soup tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When thawed, some stirring might be needed to bring back the creamy consistency.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling and to keep the soup silky. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick. Microwave reheating is convenient but do so in short increments to maintain the soup’s luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well if you want a lighter version. Just brown it as you would beef, and the soup will still be deliciously satisfying.

What type of potatoes are best for this soup?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape while softening enough to create that creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t break down as nicely in the slow cooking process.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute the milk or cream with a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether. The soup will still be comforting and tasty.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy and thick but still spoonable—almost like a hearty chowder. If it’s too thick after cooking, just add a bit more broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.

Is it possible to cook this recipe on high in a shorter time?

Yes, cooking on High for about 3 to 4 hours works just fine if you’re pressed for time, though the full Low setting really lets the flavors blossom deeply. Just check that the potatoes are tender before finishing.

Final Thoughts

Embracing warm, comforting dinners is easy with the Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a cozy hug and gives you all the satisfaction of homemade, slow-cooked goodness with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that same joy that comes from every creamy, cheesy bite.