Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup on a chilly evening. The aroma of sautéed onions, hearty potatoes, and savory ground beef simmering in a rich, creamy broth will have your kitchen feeling like a cozy haven.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick, filling, and made with pantry staples. Little did I know it would become a family favorite, loved for its simplicity and heartiness. Ready to dive in? Let’s talk about why this recipe is a winner.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to embrace a dish that’s both nostalgic and practical. This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup hits all the right notes for a perfect comfort food recipe.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this soup ready to simmer in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when everyone’s hungry and you need something fast.

It’s also a budget-friendly option. The main components—potatoes, ground beef, and a few everyday vegetables—are affordable and often already in your kitchen. That means you can serve up big bowls of satisfaction without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture and savory flavor appeal to even the pickiest eaters, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite toppings or add-ins.

Lastly, this recipe is a one-pot wonder. Cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy the meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

So, grab your favorite ladle, because it’s time to get cooking!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering its comforting, rich flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need.

Potatoes are the star of this dish. I recommend using Yukon Golds or russets for their creamy texture. Peel them for a smooth finish or leave the skins on for a rustic feel.

Ground beef brings hearty, savory depth. Opt for an 80/20 mix for just the right amount of flavor without too much grease. If you prefer a leaner option, you can always drain excess fat after browning.

Onions and garlic form the aromatic base of the soup. A diced yellow onion and a few cloves of minced garlic sautéed in butter add layers of flavor that elevate the dish.

Chicken or beef broth provides the liquid base, creating a savory canvas for the potatoes and beef to shine. Use a low-sodium variety to have more control over the saltiness of the soup.

Heavy cream adds that luscious, velvety texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be slightly less rich.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like butter, salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for a hint of smoky warmth.

If you have a good-sized stockpot or Dutch oven, you’re all set on equipment. A potato masher or immersion blender can also come in handy for achieving your desired consistency.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Creating this comforting soup is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s walk through the steps.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even chunks to ensure they cook quickly and uniformly. Dice your onion and mince the garlic.

Heat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt before tossing in the diced onion. Cook until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat if needed.

Now it’s time to build the soup base. Pour in the chicken or beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Use a fork to check for doneness; they should easily break apart.

For a creamier texture, use a potato masher to partially mash the potatoes in the pot. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through for a few minutes.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for warmth. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or fresh parsley.

The entire process takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen soup is best enjoyed within 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of greens.
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for an extra layer of richness.
• Love spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Make it gluten-free by ensuring your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect canvas for experimentation, so don’t hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand.

Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, it’s time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of cozy, creamy goodness. Happy cooking!

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