Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory ground beef create a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

I first whipped up this soup on a whim during a particularly cold winter evening. It was one of those "use whatever's in the pantry" meals, and it quickly became a family favorite. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup has you covered.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delightful bowl of comfort. Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup isn't just delicious—it's a recipe you'll turn to time and time again.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. In under an hour, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table. The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

This soup is also wonderfully budget-friendly. Using affordable, everyday ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and shredded cheese means you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

But the real magic? It’s irresistibly cheesy. Every spoonful is packed with a creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the tender potatoes and savory beef.

Finally, it's customizable! Whether you want to add some spice, sneak in extra veggies, or swap out ingredients to suit your tastes, this recipe is endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer leaner beef, that's fine—just be sure to drain any excess grease after browning.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe. They break down beautifully, adding a natural creaminess to the soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, as it delivers a bold, cheesy flavor. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient but doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples provide a savory depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Heavy Cream: For a luxurious, creamy base, heavy cream is key. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the soup won’t be as rich.

Special equipment needed? Just a large soup pot or Dutch oven—perfect for one-pot cooking!

How To Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Making this soup is as easy as it is satisfying. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

1. Cook the Ground Beef
   Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once it's browned and fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same pot, add a tablespoon of butter, followed by a diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
   Peel and dice 4 medium potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Add them to the pot along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Create the Creamy Base
   In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with 1 cup of milk to make a slurry. Stir this into the soup, then add 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Add the Cheese and Beef
   Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the cooked ground beef. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like parsley to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or chopped green onions, and serve with warm crusty bread. Total cook time? Just about 40 minutes!

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it's rare!), this soup stores wonderfully.

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly when thawed.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in carrots, celery, or corn for added nutrition and texture.
• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter version.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free soup.
• Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and chives for a loaded baked potato vibe.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this soup is forgiving and delicious no matter how you customize it!

Make this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup once, and you'll see why it’s a household favorite. It’s rich, comforting, and the perfect way to bring a little warmth to your table any night of the week. Happy cooking!

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