Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and tender potatoes, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of rich flavors and creamy texture makes this soup perfect for cold evenings or any time you’re craving something warm and filling. It’s a one-pot dish that’s easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• Optional: bacon bits, green onions, or extra shredded cheese for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir to create a roux. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.

5. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

6. Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the cooked ground beef, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.

7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

8. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning if needed.

9. Serve hot, and garnish with optional toppings like bacon bits, green onions, or extra cheese.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

• Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

• Add Vegetables: Include additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, though russet potatoes give the soup a creamy texture.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

5. Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

6. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup may not be as rich and creamy.

7. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Yes, pre-cooked ground beef can be added directly to the soup. Just be sure to add it in step 6 with the milk and cream.

8. How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher to thicken it or make a slurry by mixing cornstarch and water, then stirring it into the soup.

9. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and texture.

10. How can I make this soup more creamy?

For an extra creamy texture, use more heavy cream or blend a portion of the soup and then return it to the pot.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect comfort dish to enjoy on a chilly day. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this soup is easy to make and absolutely delicious. Perfect for leftovers or meal prep, it’s a dish that keeps on giving!