Crock Pot Creamy Potato And Hamburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of a warm, hearty meal that’s been simmering all day, especially when all you had to do was toss a few ingredients into the crock pot that morning. This Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is exactly that kind of magic in a bowl.
Whether you’re battling a chilly day, feeding a hungry crew, or just craving a cozy dinner without the stress, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s thick, creamy, loaded with flavor, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a few pantry staples.
But what really makes this soup shine? It’s the perfect balance of comfort food meets convenience. No fancy techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients, just good, honest cooking with a creamy twist.
If you love hearty crock pot meals that feel like a hug in a bowl, you’re in the right place. Let’s make your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy all the cozy feels.
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Table of Contents
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re the kind of person who gets excited about a creamy, filling soup that basically cooks itself, this crock pot creamy potato and hamburger soup is going to be your new go-to. Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot on weeknight dinner rotations and chilly weekend menus:
✅ Dump-and-Go Easy
No fancy prep here. Just brown the ground beef, toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do its thing. It’s truly a set it and forget it kind of meal.
🥔 Simple, Budget-Friendly Ingredients
This recipe leans on humble staples like ground beef, potatoes, broth, and cheddar cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and doesn’t break the bank, perfect for feeding a crowd or stretching leftovers.
🧀 Creamy, Hearty, and Totally Comforting
We’re talking thick, velvety soup with soft chunks of potato and rich cheesy goodness. It’s like your favorite loaded baked potato met a juicy cheeseburger and got cozy in a slow cooker.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Approved
Kids love it. Adults go back for seconds. And yes, even the picky eaters have been known to scrape the bowl clean.
🧊 Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing
This soup stores and reheats beautifully, so make a big batch, save some for later, and enjoy stress-free lunches or quick dinners all week long.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this creamy crock pot hamburger and potato soup is that it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few substitution tips to make it your own.
🥩 Ground Beef
Lean ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor and a little heartiness to the soup.
Swap it: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
🥔 Potatoes
Russet potatoes are a classic choice, they break down slightly and add to the creaminess. Yukon Golds work beautifully too for a buttery finish.
Shortcut: Use frozen diced potatoes if you’re short on time!
🧅 Onion
Chopped yellow or white onion adds depth and subtle sweetness.
Optional: Sauté with the beef for extra flavor.
🧄 Garlic
A couple of cloves go a long way, garlic enhances everything here.
🧂 Seasonings
Salt, pepper, and a little paprika for a gentle kick. Keep it simple, or customize with herbs like thyme or parsley.
🥣 Chicken or Beef Broth
This forms the soup base. Chicken broth gives a lighter flavor, while beef broth brings richness.
🧀 Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Melted into the soup at the end, this adds creamy, cheesy goodness.
🥛 Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
Stirred in after cooking for that ultra-creamy finish.
Lighten it up: Use milk and cornstarch if you prefer a thinner soup.
🌽 Optional Add-ins
- Carrots or celery for added veggies
- Corn for a hint of sweetness
💡 Pro Tip: For even richer flavor, brown the beef with onion and garlic before adding to the crock pot. It’s a quick extra step that adds a surprising amount of flavor.
🍲 How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup
Making this slow cooker creamy hamburger and potato soup is super simple, no fancy steps, no complicated prep. Just follow these easy instructions and let your crock pot do the heavy lifting.
🔥 Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. “Use a spoon or spatula to crumble the meat while it cooks so it browns evenly.
👉 Optional but recommended: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté them with the beef for extra flavor.
Once browned, drain any excess grease and transfer the beef mixture to your crock pot.
🥔 Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
To the crock pot, add:
- Chopped potatoes
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, and any herbs you like)
- Broth (chicken or beef)
Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
⏲️ Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 6–8 hours
- Or on HIGH for 3–4 hours
You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
🧀 Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness
About 20–30 minutes before serving, stir in:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
Let everything melt and blend together into a rich, creamy base. If you’d like the soup a little thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes gently with a spoon or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water).
🥄 Step 5: Taste and Serve
Give your soup a final taste, adjust seasoning if needed (more salt? a pinch of black pepper?). Then ladle it into bowls, top with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy every cozy, creamy spoonful.
👩🍳 Pro Tip: This soup thickens as it cools, even more delicious the next day!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup
Want to take your soup from good to absolutely unforgettable? These simple tricks make it easy to get perfect results every time.
🔥 1. Brown the Beef First (Don’t Skip This!)
Yes, it’s an extra step, but it adds so much flavor. Browning the ground beef (especially with the onions and garlic) brings out rich, savory notes that make a big difference in the final dish.
🥄 2. Cut Potatoes Evenly
Whether you’re using fresh or frozen potatoes, try to keep the pieces about the same size. This ensures they cook evenly and you don’t end up with some mushy and some crunchy.
🧂 3. Season as You Go
Taste the broth before you slow cook and again after adding the cream. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning at the end.
🧀 4. Add Dairy at the End
Always stir in cheese and cream during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. Adding them too early can cause curdling or separation, especially in long cook times.
🥣 5. Thicken to Your Liking
Prefer a chunkier, thicker soup? Gently mash a few of the potatoes right in the crock pot before adding the cream. Or stir in a cornstarch slurry to control the consistency without overcooking.
🥶 6. Cool Before Storing
Let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. This helps preserve its texture and prevents excess condensation inside the container.
🧊 7. Reheat Gently
For best results, reheat leftovers over medium-low heat and stir regularly. This keeps the creamy texture smooth and prevents the soup from breaking or becoming grainy.
🔄 Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this creamy potato and hamburger soup is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have in the kitchen, or your dietary needs. Here are a few tried-and-true ways to switch it up without sacrificing that cozy, comforting flavor.
🦃 Ground Beef Alternatives
- Ground Turkey: A leaner option that still tastes great. Slightly lighter in flavor, but blends beautifully with the creamy base.
- Ground Chicken: Mild and protein-packed, just make sure to season it well.
- Meatless Crumbles: Want a vegetarian version? Try plant-based ground “meat” substitutes, just make sure to use veggie broth instead of chicken or beef.
🥛 Dairy-Free Options
Avoiding dairy? No problem.
- Use unsweetened oat milk or almond milk plus a touch of olive oil or dairy-free margarine for richness.
- Thicken with a slurry of cornstarch and plant-based milk instead of cream.
- Swap cheddar for dairy-free shredded cheese, or leave it out for a lighter finish.
🥕 Add More Veggies
This soup is a blank canvas for sneaky veggies. Try tossing in:
- Carrots (sliced or shredded)
- Celery (adds great texture)
- Green beans or peas for color and sweetness
- Corn for an extra pop (especially loved by kids!)
🌿 Flavor Boosters
Want to level things up just a little more? Try:
- A pinch of smoked paprika or thyme
- A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for subtle heat
- Stirring in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving (if not dairy-free)
❄️ Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or wondering what to do with leftovers, this crock pot creamy potato and hamburger soup is a dream when it comes to storing and reheating. Here’s how to keep it just as delicious the next day (or weeks later!).
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
- Let the soup cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🥄 The soup may thicken slightly after chilling, just add a splash of broth or milk when reheating if needed.
❄️ Can You Freeze Creamy Potato Soup?
Yes, with a little care!
Because of the dairy, the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it’s still very tasty.
Tips for freezing:
- Cool completely before freezing
- Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for space-saving)
- Freeze for up to 2 months
To avoid separation:
- Freeze the soup before adding cream and cheese, if possible.
- When ready to eat, thaw, reheat, then stir in the dairy at the end.
🔥 How to Reheat Without Curdling
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave at 50% power
- Stir often to keep the soup smooth and evenly heated
- Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickened in the fridge or freezer
🔁 Pro Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day, the flavors continue to meld, and the creamy texture thickens to perfection!
FAQ
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup turns out thinner than you like, try one of these easy fixes:
Mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the crock pot
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water) and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes
Stir in a bit more cheese or cream to thicken it naturally
Will the cream curdle in the crock pot?
To avoid curdling, always add cream or dairy at the end of the cooking process, not at the beginning. Once everything is fully cooked and the crock pot is on low or warm, stir in the cream and cheese for the perfect finish.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?
Yes! To make it on the stovetop:
Brown the beef with onions and garlic in a large pot
Add the rest of the ingredients (except dairy) and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender
Stir in cream and cheese at the end until melted and creamy
Do I have to cook the beef before putting it in the crock pot?
Technically, you could add raw ground beef straight to the slow cooker, but browning it first is highly recommended. It adds flavor, improves texture, and lets you drain off excess grease. Plus, cooking it with onions and garlic gives the soup a flavor boost from the start.
🧊 Can I freeze this soup with cream and cheese already in it?
Yes, but the texture might change slightly. Cream and cheese can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. It’s still safe to eat and tastes good, but for the best results, consider freezing the soup before adding the dairy, then stir it in fresh after reheating.
What’s the best type of potato for creamy soups?
Great question! Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly and help naturally thicken the soup. Yukon Golds are also excellent, they hold their shape a bit better and offer a buttery texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes unless you prefer a chunkier finish.
Can I prep this the night before?
Absolutely! You can brown the ground beef and chop all the veggies in advance. Store everything in the fridge overnight (except the dairy), then just toss it in the crock pot in the morning. Perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep Sundays.
Can I cook this from frozen ingredients?
Yes, with a couple of adjustments. If using frozen ground beef, make sure to fully thaw and cook it before adding to the crock pot. Frozen diced potatoes can go in straight from the freezer. You may need to add an extra 30–60 minutes to the cook time.
Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup
Equipment
- Crock Pot (6-quart or larger)
- Skillet (for browning meat)
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- You can bulk add or paste these into groups if needed
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: 1 cup corn 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1/2 cup diced celery
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. (Optional: Add chopped onion and garlic while browning for extra flavor.) Drain excess grease.
- Transfer the beef mixture to your crock pot.
- Add potatoes, broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheese and heavy cream.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Optional: Mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey and milk instead of beef and cream.
- This soup thickens as it cools. Add extra broth or milk when reheating if needed.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
🥄 Final Thoughts
There’s just something timeless about a bowl of hot, creamy soup on a cold day, and this Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup brings all the comfort with none of the hassle. It’s rich, hearty, and made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a full table of hungry eaters, this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a cold-weather tradition, the one you pull out when life gets busy, the fridge is a little empty, or you just need something really good without a lot of work.
💬 Tried This Recipe? Let’s Hear It!
If you made this soup, I’d love to know how it turned out!
- Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating in the recipe card below
- Share your tweaks or tips in the comments
- Don’t forget to pin it or share with a friend who needs a little comfort in a bowl
For more easy crock pot meals, weeknight comfort food, and cozy recipes that work, subscribe to the newsletter or check out the related dishes linked below.
Stay warm & happy cooking! 🍲
🍽️ Craving More Cozy Comfort Food?
If you loved this Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup, don’t stop here, warm, hearty meals are kind of our thing! Try these reader-favorite slow cooker and ground beef recipes next:
- 👉 Crock Pot Picadillo – A flavorful, Latin-inspired twist on ground beef that’s perfect over rice.
- 👉 Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole – Cheesy, meaty, and topped with potatoes, it’s comfort food to the max.
- 👉 Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes – Your ultimate guide to easy, satisfying slow cooker meals using ground beef.
📌 Bookmark these now and thank yourself later when dinner time rolls around!
