If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food to warm you up on chilly days, look no further than Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This hearty, creamy soup combines the richness of ground beef with tender, flavorful potatoes and gooey, melty cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with and will leave the whole family coming back for seconds. Each spoonful delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, from the savory beef to the soft, perfectly cooked potatoes in a smooth, cheesy broth.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup brings together everything you crave in a comfort meal. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or you’re simply craving something cozy and delicious, this soup has you covered. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying and packed with ingredients that bring a lot of nutritional value to the table. This is a dish where classic home-cooked flavors meet creamy indulgence.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef 🍔: Adds a hearty, savory flavor to the soup.
- 1 small onion, diced 🧅: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄: Brings a subtle, aromatic layer.
- 4 cups potatoes, diced 🥔: Choose russet or Yukon gold potatoes for a creamy texture.
- 4 cups beef broth 🍲: Forms the base and adds rich, beefy flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk 🥛: Adds creaminess to the broth.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀: Melts perfectly, giving the soup a velvety texture.
Lose Some Weight With This Diet Soup:
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Cooking it until it’s fully browned and starting to develop a crust will add an extra depth of flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy. Tip: Season the beef with a little salt and pepper during this stage for additional flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the pot with the ground beef and sauté until it becomes translucent. This process takes about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until the garlic is fragrant. Sautéing the onion and garlic releases their natural sweetness and intensifies the flavor of the soup.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
Once the onion and garlic are sautéed, it’s time to add the potatoes and beef broth. Stir well, ensuring all ingredients are combined, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Check by poking a potato with a fork—it should slide in easily when done.
4. Incorporate Milk and Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low, and slowly add the milk to the soup. Stir it in gently to keep it from curdling. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while continuously stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup reaches a creamy consistency. This step is essential for achieving the perfectly cheesy, thick broth.
5. Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, chives, or even a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy each delicious spoonful!
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
Using starchy potatoes, like russet or Yukon gold, is key to getting the creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible. Starchy potatoes break down easily, thickening the soup naturally.
2. Don’t Rush the Simmering Process
Allowing the soup to simmer properly helps all the flavors meld together. Skipping this step can lead to undercooked potatoes or an inconsistent texture. Give the soup at least 20 minutes to simmer, ensuring the potatoes are tender and the flavors are fully developed.
3. Experiment with Toppings
Consider topping your soup with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of green onions or chives, or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. These additions add color, flavor, and texture, making each bowl even more enjoyable.
4. Make It Ahead of Time
This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. If you’re making it ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or milk to regain its creamy texture.
Health Benefits of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
High in Protein
Thanks to the ground beef, this soup is high in protein, making it a filling and satisfying option that helps maintain energy levels and supports muscle health.
Loaded with Calcium
The milk and cheese add a good dose of calcium, essential for bone health and strong teeth. Calcium also plays a role in heart and muscle function, making this a nutrient-dense choice.
Rich in Potassium and Fiber
Potatoes are a great source of potassium and fiber. Potassium helps with fluid balance and muscle contractions, while fiber aids digestion and keeps you full longer.
Common Questions and Variations
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! This soup can also be made with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Each brings a unique twist, but the cooking process remains the same.
How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
This soup is naturally gluten-free if you’re using a gluten-free broth. Always check the labels on pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
What About a Low-Fat Version?
For a lighter version, try using lean ground beef or ground turkey and substitute whole milk with skim milk or almond milk. The soup will still be creamy but with fewer calories.
Is This Soup Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, it is! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is perfect on its own, but it’s even better when paired with something to dip or complement it. Here are some ideas:
- Warm, crusty bread or a garlic baguette for dipping.
- Side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the soup.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Comfort Soup for Every Occasion
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is everything you need for a hearty, satisfying meal. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and filling ingredients make it a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. Whether you’re making a big pot for a family dinner or storing leftovers for a quick lunch, this soup is sure to become a household favorite.
Each spoonful brings warmth and satisfaction, making it a go-to recipe on cold nights or any time you need a cozy meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe makes achieving delicious results easy for cooks of any skill level.