Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup – Easy Weeknight Comfort Food

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is the kind of cozy, comfort-in-a-bowl recipe that busy folks dream of. It’s packed with hearty potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, savory broth that tastes like it’s been simmering all day—because it has. But the best part? You barely have to lift a finger. With just a few pantry staples and a trusty Crock Pot, you’ve got a soul-warming dinner waiting for you at the end of a long day. Whether you’ve got picky eaters, a tight schedule, or just need something fuss-free and filling, this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup has your back.

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What is Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup?

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is a slow-cooked, ultra-satisfying soup made from ground beef, diced potatoes, onions, garlic, and a rich, creamy broth that’s usually built with cream of mushroom soup and milk. Everything bubbles together for hours in the Crock Pot until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors are dreamy and blended. Think of it as a cross between a hamburger stew and a loaded baked potato soup—with way less effort. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner fix when you want comfort without the chaos.

Reasons to Try Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Let’s be real: dinnertime can feel like a second job. That’s where Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup comes to the rescue. First, it’s incredibly easy—just dump, stir, and let the Crock Pot do the work. Second, it’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you probably already have. Third, it pleases a crowd—even the picky ones who usually dissect their dinner like food critics. Lastly, it reheats like a dream, so you’re winning at lunch the next day too. It’s hearty, homey, and honestly just hits the spot.

Ingredients Needed to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer version)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

[Need a quick homemade version of cream of mushroom soup? Try our creamy mushroom soup with thyme.]

Instructions to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Let’s walk through how to make this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup step by step—no guesswork, no stress. Just hearty, homemade goodness waiting for you at the end of the day.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Let it cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.

As it cooks, you’ll notice a bit of fat rendering out—go ahead and drain that off once the beef is done. This step keeps your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup from getting greasy. Trust me, this little bit of extra effort makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

Tip: You can add a pinch of salt while browning to help season the meat from the start.

Once browned and drained, transfer the beef straight into the bottom of your Crock Pot.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Potatoes

Now, toss in 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. These simple aromatics add serious flavor as they slow cook. Next, add 4 cups of diced potatoes—about 4 medium potatoes, peeled if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave the skins on for a more rustic, fiber-packed dish.

Make sure to spread everything evenly in the slow cooker so each spoonful of soup gets a little bit of everything.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add 4 cups of beef broth to your Crock Pot. This liquid will help cook the potatoes and serve as the base of your soup. You can use store-bought broth or even better—homemade if you’ve got it in your freezer stash.

The broth will carry the savory flavors of the beef and potatoes beautifully, and it gives this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup that classic cozy feel.

Step 4: Mix in the Creamy Elements

Here comes the creamy magic: Add one 15-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup. It brings a velvety texture and earthy depth that works perfectly with the beef and potatoes. You’ll also pour in 1 cup of milk—or if you’re feeling extra indulgent, swap in half-and-half for a richer version.

If you’re a fan of mushroom-forward soups, you might also love this Creamy Mushroom Potato Soup that uses similar ingredients in a slightly different way.

Then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried parsley, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly—you want the creamy ingredients to combine well with the broth and beef mixture.

Step 5: Let the Crock Pot Work Its Magic

Now it’s time to let your Crock Pot shine. Cover it with the lid and set it to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. You’re looking for the potatoes to become fork-tender and for the flavors to meld into a smooth, creamy soup.

Try not to lift the lid too often—every time you do, you let heat escape and extend the cooking time. But if you’re home and nearby, give it a gentle stir halfway through cooking, especially if your Crock Pot runs a little hot.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Sour Cream (Optional, but Highly Recommended)

Once the potatoes are soft and everything’s cooked through, it’s time for the finishing touch. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If you want extra creaminess (and honestly, who doesn’t?), add ½ cup of sour cream as well.

Let everything melt and blend for a few minutes with the lid off. The cheese adds depth and richness, while the sour cream gives it a smooth, slightly tangy kick.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Ladle the hot Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup into bowls. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top or garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Serve it with crusty bread, a simple salad, or even buttery crackers. Bonus points if you serve it in those oversized soup mugs that make everything feel cozier.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

This soup is basically a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a slice of crusty sourdough or a warm biscuit makes a perfect companion. A fresh green salad with a zippy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Got kids at the table? A side of buttered corn or apple slices works like a charm. Or go all-in on the comfort and serve it with a grilled cheese—because carbs on carbs is sometimes the answer to everything.

Key Tips for Making Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

1. Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds—they hold their shape better than russets.
2. Brown the beef first—this gives the soup a deeper flavor and prevents it from getting greasy.
3. Stir occasionally if you’re home during the cook time, especially if your Crock Pot tends to run hot.
4. Want it thicker? Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a spoon before serving.
5. Cheese or no cheese? It’s delicious either way, but if you go cheesy, freshly shredded melts smoother than pre-shredded.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup

Let leftovers cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a bowl in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This soup also freezes well—just skip the sour cream and cheese until you’re ready to reheat. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before warming up again.

FAQs

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?
Yes! Just simmer everything in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Can I use frozen potatoes?
You can, but fresh diced potatoes give better texture. If using frozen, add them after the first couple hours of cooking.

What kind of beef should I use?
Ground chuck (80/20) works great. Leaner beef is fine too—just make sure to brown and drain it well.

Can I swap the cream of mushroom soup?
Definitely. Cream of celery or cream of chicken also works well.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream soup and milk alternative. Skip the cheese and sour cream or use vegan versions.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Soup is proof that cozy meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just need something that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a no-fuss, flavor-packed favorite that’ll earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation. If you loved this, you might also enjoy our hamburger potato casserole for a baked version of the same flavors.

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