Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. This creamy, hearty soup combines tender chunks of potato, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese for a dish that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when I needed to stretch a few simple ingredients into a satisfying meal for my family. It quickly became a favorite, loved for its rich flavors and budget-friendly ingredients. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet satisfying soup. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for the perfect cozy dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

First, this soup is a true time-saver. It comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but still homemade and delicious.

Second, it’s a one-pot wonder. With minimal cleanup required, you'll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones.

This recipe is also incredibly filling. The combination of hearty potatoes, savory hamburger, and creamy cheese makes for a meal that's both comforting and satisfying.

Lastly, the flavors are a hit with everyone. Even picky eaters will fall for the cheesy, rich goodness in every bite, making it a great option for family dinners.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the soup's perfect balance of flavors.

Ground beef is the star of this soup. Choose lean ground beef to keep the soup flavorful without being overly greasy. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute.

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape while becoming tender. Peel and dice them into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly.

Cheddar cheese gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor. Use a good-quality sharp cheddar for the best results, and shred it yourself to avoid the anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded cheese.

The onion and garlic provide a flavor base that elevates the soup from good to great. Don't skip sautéing them for maximum depth of flavor.

To create the creamy texture, you'll need milk and heavy cream. This combination ensures the soup is rich and indulgent without being overly heavy. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half.

A large, heavy-bottomed pot is the only special equipment you’ll need for this recipe. It’s perfect for even cooking and helps prevent sticking.

How To Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Creating this delicious soup is easier than you might think. Let me guide you through the process step by step.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the onion until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Next, stir in the diced potatoes and pour in chicken broth to cover the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

While the potatoes cook, make the creamy base. Whisk together milk, heavy cream, and a small amount of flour in a bowl until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the soup thickens.

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is velvety smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, crumbled bacon, or extra shredded cheese for a finishing touch.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), this soup stores beautifully.

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.

For longer storage, this soup can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove.

Note that the texture of the potatoes may slightly change after freezing, but the flavor remains delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for evaporated milk or reduce the amount of cheese.

If you're looking to add more vegetables, diced carrots, celery, or even corn would make great additions. Simply sauté them along with the onion for extra flavor.

Vegetarian? Skip the ground beef and use a plant-based alternative or extra beans for protein. Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to keep the dish meat-free.

Want to spice it up? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. A combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack or even a little Parmesan can bring new dimensions to the soup's flavor.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and incredible flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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