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This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is my go-to recipe when I need pure comfort in a bowl. I've been making it for years and it never fails to bring smiles around my dinner table. The combination of tender potatoes savory ground beef and fresh veggies in that velvety broth is just magical. It's one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Why You'll Fall in Love
What makes this soup so special is how rich and satisfying it is while being so simple to make. I love that I can use ingredients I usually have on hand. The way the potatoes break down slightly creates this amazing creamy texture that makes everyone come back for seconds. Plus it's so versatile you can really make it your own.
Everything You Need
- Ground Beef: Use fresh or thawed ground beef for a hearty base. Choose lean beef to reduce grease, or add extra flavor with fattier cuts.
- Russet Potatoes: 4-5 large potatoes peeled and diced. Their starchiness adds thickness and creaminess.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 2 cups of your choice – peas, carrots, green beans, or corn work wonderfully.
- Chicken or Beef Broth: 4 cups for a flavorful base. Adjust salt accordingly when using store-bought stock.
- Milk or Cream: 1 cup for a creamy finish. Whole milk or half-and-half are great options.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, to enhance the soup's depth.
- Parsley & Basil: 1 teaspoon each for herbal notes. Adjust to taste.
Let's Make It Together
- Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer to a slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Spices
- Add diced potatoes, frozen vegetables, parsley, basil, and broth to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Soup
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally if using a stovetop method.
- Incorporate Dairy
- Whisk in milk or cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir until the soup reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
My Best Tips
I always stick with Russet potatoes they make the soup so wonderfully creamy. Sometimes I use ground turkey instead of beef when I want a lighter version. The best part about this soup is you can play with the seasonings until it's perfect for your family's taste. My kids love when I add extra vegetables it's such a great way to get them to eat their veggies.
Keep It Fresh
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for about 4 days. Just warm it up gently when you're ready to eat. I always avoid bringing it to a boil when reheating that keeps the creamy texture perfect. A quick stir while it's warming helps keep everything smooth.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I toss in some diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for extra richness. My husband loves it when I top it with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of cheese. Adding some rice or small pasta makes it even more filling. The possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Busy Days
I love throwing this in my slow cooker before work. Nothing beats walking through the door to the smell of this soup simmering away. It's such a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights when everyone's hungry and tired.
A True Family Favorite
The best thing about this soup is how it brings everyone together. Even my picky eaters clean their bowls. There's something about that creamy broth and tender vegetables that just makes everyone happy. Plus the leftovers taste even better the next day.
Get Cooking
You're going to love how this soup fills your home with the most amazing aroma. It's become such a staple in my kitchen and I know it will in yours too. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want something cozy for dinner this recipe never disappoints.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this on the stovetop instead of slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer it on the stovetop until potatoes are tender and starting to dissolve. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- → How can I adjust the consistency?
Add more broth for a thinner soup, or stir in sour cream at the end for extra creaminess and tang. The cornstarch mixture helps thicken it.
- → What kind of vegetables work best?
Any frozen mixed vegetable blend works well. Common combinations include corn, carrots, peas, and green beans.
- → Can I substitute the Velveeta?
While Velveeta gives the smoothest melt, you can use regular shredded cheese. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin.