There's nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup to chase away the chill on a cold day. This creamy, comforting soup is loaded with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and melty cheese, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
I discovered this recipe on a snowy afternoon when all I had were pantry staples and a craving for something rich and satisfying. After one spoonful, it quickly became a family favorite, perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Let me show you how simple it is to make this irresistible soup.
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Get ready to fall in love with a soup that’s not just easy to make but also checks all the boxes for flavor, comfort, and convenience.
First off, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. You can have it ready in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
This soup is also wonderfully budget-friendly. Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese means you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal.
Not to mention, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and a cheesy broth is simply irresistible. A dash of seasoning and a sprinkle of fresh herbs take it over the top, making every bite a delight.
Finally, this recipe is easily customizable. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or adjust the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. It’s as versatile as it is delicious, ensuring it will never get boring.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup lies in its simple ingredients, each working together to create a rich and satisfying bowl of comfort.
- Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of the soup. Use lean ground beef for less grease, but feel free to opt for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best here. They become tender and creamy as they cook, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the soup.
- Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is the star of the show, adding a tangy, melty richness. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for added depth.
- Broth and Milk: A combination of chicken or beef broth and milk creates the soup's creamy base. You can use half-and-half for an even richer texture.
- Seasonings: Simple pantry spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give the soup its irresistible depth of flavor.
- Vegetables: Diced onions and carrots add a touch of sweetness and extra heartiness. You can also toss in celery or corn for more texture.
No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a good pot and a wooden spoon will do the trick.
How To Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Making this soup is as comforting as eating it. The process is simple, straightforward, and oh-so-rewarding.
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks, and once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess grease. This step ensures the soup isn’t overly oily while keeping all that savory flavor.
Next, sauté your diced onions and carrots in the same pot. Let them cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. These vegetables create a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish.
Now, it’s time to add your potatoes and broth. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the potatoes cook until they’re fork-tender—about 15 minutes.
Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the milk and seasonings. Slowly sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth and creamy broth. This step ensures the cheese melts evenly, creating that signature cheesy goodness.
Finally, give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, and serve it hot with a side of crusty bread.
Storage Options
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
- Refrigerate: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens.
- Freeze: If you want to freeze this soup, omit the cheese during the cooking process. Once thawed and reheated, stir in the cheese for that creamy finish. Frozen soup can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Always reheat the soup over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. Stir frequently to maintain its creamy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. A splash of hot sauce works well too.
- Make It Lighter: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative like almond milk.
- Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends, like Pepper Jack for a spicy twist or Gruyere for a nutty flavor.
- Bacon Bonus: Top your soup with crispy bacon bits for a smoky, indulgent touch.
With endless options to tailor this soup to your taste, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Don’t be afraid to get creative—your perfect bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup awaits!
PrintCheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
This cheesy hamburger potato soup recipe is a hearty, comforting meal featuring ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy broth. Perfect for cold nights, this soup is easy to make and sure to satisfy the whole family.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add potatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and cooked ground beef. Mix until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use smoked cheddar or add crispy bacon as a topping.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting flour with cornstarch.
- Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
Leave a Reply