Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Made In the Crockpot

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of creamy, hearty soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in the crockpot. Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich Velveeta cheese to create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Ideal for chilly evenings or a family meal, this recipe allows the crockpot to work its magic, blending flavors and tenderizing ingredients to perfection. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking for a comforting dish, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• 6 cups of peeled & diced Russet potatoes
• 2 cups of your favorite frozen vegetable mix
• 3 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, fry the ground beef and onions until the onions are soft and the ground beef is browned. Drain the grease to ensure a leaner soup base.
2. Prepare the Garlic: Fry the minced garlic until it’s browned and fragrant, which will enhance the flavor of the soup.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the beef and onion mixture to the crockpot or a stockpot on the stove. Then, add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, dried basil, and parsley flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Cook the Soup: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and starting to dissolve slightly. If using a stockpot, simmer until the potatoes reach the desired tenderness.
5. Thicken the Soup: In a separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the soup, stirring well. Incorporate the Velveeta cheese and let it melt, stirring occasionally, until fully melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the Velveeta is completely melted and the soup has thickened to your liking, spoon it into bowls and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Garnish Ideas: Enhance the flavor and presentation of your soup with fresh toppings like chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits. A dollop of sour cream can also add a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Accompaniments: Serve your soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad to complete the meal. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can add a touch of extra flavor.
• Temperature: This soup is delicious served hot. Make sure to ladle it into bowls while it’s steaming for the best taste and texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container to avoid condensation.
• Freezing: If you want to keep the soup for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. For easier storage, consider portioning it into individual servings.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, add a bit of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to stir well and heat evenly.

Following these tips will help you keep your Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving it for later!

Variations:

1. Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of crumbled cooked bacon and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup when you add the Velveeta. Garnish with additional bacon bits and shredded cheddar before serving.
   • Details: The smoky flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese, adding a crunchy texture and extra richness to the soup.
2. Vegetarian Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables such as chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
   • Details: For a heartier texture, you can include a can of drained beans, such as kidney beans or chickpeas. Use a plant-based milk and cheese substitute to keep it fully vegetarian.
3. Spicy Southwest Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Add 1-2 tablespoons of taco seasoning or chili powder to the soup. Stir in 1 cup of black beans and 1 cup of corn.
   • Details: Garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty and flavorful twist. This variation adds a spicy kick and southwest flair to the classic soup.
4. Creamy Chicken Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Substitute 1 1/2 pounds of cooked, shredded chicken for the ground beef. Use chicken broth as directed.
   • Details: Adding chicken makes the soup even heartier and provides a different protein option. You can also add a teaspoon of poultry seasoning to complement the chicken.
5. Dijon Mustard Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard with the Velveeta cheese.
   • Details: The mustard adds a tangy depth of flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of the soup. This variation offers a unique taste and a bit of sophistication.
6. Loaded Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of chopped green onions, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the soup. Top with additional sour cream and green onions before serving.
   • Details: This variation is inspired by the loaded baked potato, incorporating classic toppings like sour cream and green onions for a fully loaded experience.
7. Mushroom Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms to the soup along with the onions and beef.
   • Details: Mushrooms add an earthy flavor and extra texture to the soup. Sauté them separately to reduce their moisture content before adding them to the soup.
8. Italian Herb Potato Soup
   • Ingredients: Replace the dried basil and parsley with 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning. Add a cup of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) if desired.
   • Details: This variation infuses the soup with Italian flavors and can be enhanced with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

These variations can help you customize the Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe!

FAQs:

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes?
   • Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor and color. They will add a natural sweetness to the soup. Be aware that sweet potatoes may cook faster than Russet potatoes, so check for tenderness earlier.
2. Can I make this soup with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   • Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious and hearty.
3. Can I prepare this soup on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?
   • Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply follow the same steps, but cook the soup in a large pot over medium heat, simmering until the potatoes are tender. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes.
4. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   • To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Double-check the labels on the chicken broth and cheese for any hidden gluten.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
   • Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
6. Can I use other types of cheese besides Velveeta?
   • Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère. Keep in mind that the melting properties and flavor will vary, so choose a cheese that melts well and complements the soup.
7. How can I make this soup spicier?
   • To add spice, you can incorporate ingredients like red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños. Add these to taste along with the other seasonings.
8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
   • Yes, fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried (e.g., 1 tablespoon of fresh basil instead of 1 teaspoon of dried basil).

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, made effortlessly in the crockpot. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal ready and waiting for you. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted Velveeta cheese creates a comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup and savor the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!