Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Crockpot potato hamburger soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy evenings, doesn’t it? Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of a hearty, flavorful soup simmering away, practically begging to be devoured. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a symphony of savory goodness that’s incredibly easy to prepare.

While the exact origins of hamburger soup are a bit murky, its roots are firmly planted in the tradition of resourceful home cooking. It’s a dish born from the desire to create a satisfying and nourishing meal using readily available ingredients. Think of it as a modern take on classic peasant soups, where simple components are transformed into something truly special.

What makes crockpot potato hamburger soup so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables create a delightful medley that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work! The hands-off cooking method allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a soup that’s far more complex and delicious than you might expect. It’s also incredibly versatile – easily adaptable to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for garnish

Browning the Beef

Before we get everything into the crockpot, browning the ground beef is a crucial step. It adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

1. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, crumble the ground beef. I like to use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
2. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned all over. Make sure to stir it frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll see the beef release some fat as it cooks.
3. Drain the Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat. You can do this by tilting the skillet and spooning the fat out, or by using a colander. Getting rid of the extra fat will make your soup healthier and less greasy.
4. Return to Skillet (Optional): If you drained the beef into a colander, return it to the skillet. We’ll be adding the onions, celery, and carrots directly to the skillet to soften them up a bit before adding them to the slow cooker.

Preparing the Vegetables

Now, let’s get those veggies ready! This step helps to build the flavor base of our soup. We’re going to soften the onions, celery, and carrots slightly before adding them to the crockpot. This will help them release their flavors and create a richer, more complex soup.

1. Add Onions, Celery, and Carrots: Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the skillet with the browned ground beef (or to a clean skillet if you drained the beef completely).
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Cook the vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the onions becoming translucent and the celery and carrots becoming slightly tender.
3. Season the Mixture: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine the spices with the beef and vegetables. This will help to bloom the spices and release their aromas.
4. Cook for Another Minute: Continue cooking for another minute, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to infuse the beef and vegetables.

Assembling the Soup in the Crockpot

Alright, we’ve prepped our ingredients, and now it’s time to let the crockpot do its magic! This is where all the flavors come together and meld into a delicious, hearty soup.

1. Transfer to Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef and vegetable mixture from the skillet to your crockpot.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and cubed potatoes to the crockpot.
3. Stir to Combine: Stir everything together well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and the flavors should be well combined.

Adding the Finishing Touches

We’re almost there! Just a few more steps to add some freshness and vibrancy to our soup. Adding the frozen corn and green beans towards the end of the cooking time ensures that they don’t become mushy.

1. Add Frozen Vegetables: During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, add the frozen corn and frozen green beans to the crockpot.
2. Stir and Cook: Stir the soup to incorporate the frozen vegetables. Continue cooking until the vegetables are heated through and tender-crisp. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
3. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Now for the best part – enjoying your delicious crockpot potato hamburger soup! Here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Garnish with Cheese: Top each bowl of soup with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. The melted cheese adds a creamy, cheesy element that complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy, creamy coolness to the soup. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the beef and vegetables.
• Sprinkle with Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color to the soup. They’re a simple yet effective garnish.
• Serve with Bread or Crackers: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping. This is a great way to soak up all the delicious broth.
• Make it a Meal: This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad for a more complete meal.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your soup? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Add Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Use Different Broth: You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of beef broth, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking time for a creamier soup.
• Add Worcestershire Sauce: A tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of savory flavor to the soup.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
• Leftovers: This soup is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Slow Cooker Considerations

Slow cookers can vary, so keep these points in mind:

• Cooking Times: Slow cookers vary in temperature. Keep an eye on the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy. If cooking on high, check after 3 hours.
• Liquid Levels: If the soup seems too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it’s too thin, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Keep Warm Setting: Once the soup is cooked, you can keep it warm in the slow cooker for several hours.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the following is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams

Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup! I hope you find it as comforting and delicious as I do.

Conclusion:

This Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic reimagined for the modern, busy cook. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – minimal prep time, maximum flavor payoff. The combination of browned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, savory broth creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Forget slaving over a hot stove; this soup practically cooks itself, freeing you up to focus on what truly matters.

But what truly elevates this soup to “must-try” status is its versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber. Throw in some chopped celery and carrots for added texture and sweetness. A handful of frozen corn kernels brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a truly decadent experience, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley. A side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Looking for variations? Consider these ideas:

* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a fiery twist.
* Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
* Italian Flair: Add a can of diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic for an Italian-inspired version.
* Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese just before serving for a cheesy, comforting treat.

This Crockpot Potato Hamburger Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly budget-friendly. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your grocery budget and feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a family favorite in my home, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, dust off your crockpot, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible soup. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear about your own delicious versions of this comforting classic.