When the temperature drops, nothing beats the ease and warmth of this Crock Pot Hamburger Soup. Loaded with ground beef, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a comforting, low-maintenance meal that simmers to perfection while you tackle your day.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking with the slow cooker.
- Rich, warming flavors perfect for cold days.
- Low-effort meal prep yielding satisfying portions.
- Versatile and can be adapted with pantry staples.
Ingredients
- Olive oil (to coat the pan): Helps to sauté the vegetables and beef, preventing sticking and adding flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a robust meatiness; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped): Adds foundational sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 medium carrots (sliced): Bring a natural sweetness and color to the dish.
- 2 stalks celery (chopped): Offers a subtle flavor and texture balance.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic depth; adjust quantity to suit personal preference.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Enhances richness and umami; substitute with ketchup if needed.
- 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; measure according to taste and dietary needs.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes; make your own with dried basil and oregano if unavailable.
- 5 cups beef broth (low sodium is preferred): Forms the soup’s savory base; adjust salt levels if using regular broth.
- 1 14-1/2 ounce can diced tomatoes (undrained): Contributes acidity and body.
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a depth of flavor and slight tang.
- 2 large potatoes (such as russets, cubed): Offer heft and a creamy texture once cooked.
How to Make It
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This browning process enhances the beef’s flavor and prevents it from clumping.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes. This step ensures the vegetables start breaking down and release their flavors into the soup base.
Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cooking the tomato paste briefly caramelizes its sugars, deepening its flavors and integrating the spices into the mixture.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef and vegetable mix to your Crock Pot. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and cubed potatoes. Stir to combine. This layering of flavors will steep together over the next several hours.
Step 5: Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, and the potatoes to become tender, creating a soup rich in taste and aroma.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you desire a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes with a fork before serving or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can this soup be frozen?
Definitely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen on the stove.
