Description
This comforting Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for cozy days. Made easily in the crockpot, it combines tender diced potatoes, ground beef, and a medley of vegetables slow-cooked to perfection with a creamy milk and flour mixture for thickness. The optional cheddar cheese topping adds a luscious richness, making it a satisfying family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (browned and drained)
- 4 cups russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Thickening and Creaminess
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef into the crockpot. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and chopped onion on top.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Make the Creamy Thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and all-purpose flour until smooth and lump-free. Stir this mixture into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken and add creaminess.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Just before serving, if desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated for an extra rich finish.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, increase the flour by 1 tablespoon when mixing with milk.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk and omit cheese.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt, depending on the sodium in your broth.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
