Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. It is rich, creamy, and packed with hearty ingredients that make it the perfect bowl of warmth on a chilly day. The ground beef adds a savory depth, while tender potatoes bring a satisfying, starchy balance. Melted cheese blends into the broth, creating a smooth and velvety finish that ties everything together. Unlike traditional soups, this recipe feels more like a meal in itself, offering protein, carbs, and a touch of indulgence in every bite. It is quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve at family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. This soup is adaptable, comforting, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and comforting cheesy hamburger potato soup made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese base, perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth and milk, stirring until smooth.
- Add potatoes, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Return cooked ground beef to the pot and stir well.
- Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions or parsley.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese.
- This soup can be made ahead and reheated, but stir in sour cream just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Lean ground beef forms the hearty base of the soup, adding savory flavor and protein that make this dish filling.
Potatoes
Diced potatoes give the soup its body, adding a creamy texture as they soften and cook down in the broth.
Onion
Onion provides a flavorful foundation, complementing both the beef and potatoes with subtle sweetness.
Carrots
Carrots lend a touch of natural sweetness and color, balancing the richness of the soup.
Celery
Celery adds aromatic depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the broth.
Garlic
Minced garlic brings a bold, savory punch that lifts the richness of the cheese and beef.
Beef broth
A rich broth base ties the ingredients together, intensifying the savory flavors of the soup.
Milk
Milk contributes creaminess to the broth, creating a smooth texture when blended with cheese.
Cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar is the star of the dish, melting into the soup to create a gooey, cheesy finish.
Butter
Butter enhances the richness and helps sauté the vegetables before the broth is added.
Flour
A small amount of flour thickens the soup, giving it a hearty, stew-like consistency.
Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens the dish with a touch of freshness and color before serving.
Salt and black pepper
Essential for seasoning, these balance and enhance the bold flavors in the soup.
Directions
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in flour, stirring to create a roux that will thicken the broth.
Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring, ensuring no lumps remain. Add diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, then reduce heat to low.
Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt completely into the broth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for a few more minutes until the soup reaches a creamy, thickened consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheddar if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings, ideal for family meals. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with 30–35 minutes of cooking time, for a total of approximately 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Freezing is possible, though the texture of potatoes and cheese may change slightly after thawing.
Variations and Customizations
Bacon Upgrade
Stir in crispy bacon bits for added smokiness and crunch.
Different Cheese Options
Experiment with Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda for a different cheesy flavor.
Vegetable Boost
Add corn, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition and texture.
Spicy Kick
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a bolder, spicier version.
Creamier Finish
Swap some of the milk for heavy cream for an ultra-rich and velvety texture.
Turkey Swap
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter alternative.
Herb-Infused
Season with thyme or rosemary to introduce an earthy, aromatic twist.
Gluten-Free Version
Skip the flour and use cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener to achieve the same creamy consistency.
Loaded Potato Style
Top each serving with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives for a loaded baked potato-inspired version.
Slow Cooker Method
Prepare the soup in a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off version with deepened flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance.
What potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, though the texture may change slightly due to the potatoes and cheese.
How do I thicken the soup without flour?
Use cornstarch or instant potato flakes as an alternative thickener.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It is best to shred cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Does this recipe work with ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
How can I make the soup less heavy?
Use skim milk and lean ground beef, or replace part of the cheese with nutritional yeast.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
Crusty bread, side salad, or cornbread are excellent choices.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding cheese and milk at the end.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add cheese gradually over low heat, stirring constantly for a smooth finish.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the definition of hearty, comforting food. With a rich blend of ground beef, tender potatoes, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish offers a filling and flavorful meal that is perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Its adaptability makes it easy to customize to your taste, while the creamy texture and robust flavor guarantee satisfaction. Whether enjoyed on a cold evening or as a comforting meal any time of the year, this soup is a recipe worth keeping on repeat.
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