Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and downright irresistible, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is your new go-to comfort food. Bursting with creamy goodness, tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich cheesy blend, this soup feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl. Made with simple kitchen staples, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want to treat yourself to a satisfying meal without fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, so it’s easy to pull together anytime.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, ground beef, and potatoes creates a warm, savory experience.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike rave about this soup, making it perfect for dinner crowds.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked together in a single pot or Dutch oven.
• Flexible Recipe: Easy to customize based on your preferences, whether that means adding veggies or kickstarting some spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup recipe shines because of its simple yet impactful ingredients, each contributing layers of taste and texture. From creamy potatoes to flavorful beef and melty cheese, every component plays a vital role.

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and fat.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for creamy texture when cooked through.
• Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Garlic: Provides a punch of flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
• Beef Broth: Creates a rich base to simmer the soup and infuse the flavors.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar shredded and melted in brings that signature cheesy goodness.
• Milk or Cream: Adds luscious creaminess to balance the savory ingredients.
• Butter and Flour: These thickeners help achieve a perfectly creamy soup body.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out every flavor.
• Optional Extras: Bacon bits or green onions can add extra zest and color.

Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Feel free to make this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup your own by adding a personal twist. It’s incredibly adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to bring a gentle heat and smoky flavor.
• Use Ground Turkey: Swap beef for a leaner option without losing deliciousness.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cheese and cream with dairy-free alternatives and use broth for thickening.
• Slow Cooker Method: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just brown beef and dump everything to cook low and slow.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, building a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in peeled and diced potatoes, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until potatoes are tender—around 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Meanwhile, in a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk or cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Add Cheese

Pour the creamy sauce into the soup pot with the beef and potatoes. Stir well, then gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth, cheesy soup.

Step 6: Season and Final Simmer

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes to meld all the delicious flavors together.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

• Use Sharp Cheddar: For the boldest flavor, choose a cheddar that’s well-aged and sharp.
• Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Keep the potatoes just tender so they don’t become mushy in the soup.
• Low and Slow Melt: Gradually add cheese over low heat to avoid clumping and curdling.
• Season as You Go: Taste your soup at every stage to get balanced, layered seasoning.
• Optional Thickener: Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water for thickening if your soup is too thin.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top your bowl with crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream to add texture and fresh pops of flavor that elevate the soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or a crisp side salad to round out your meal and bring contrast in both texture and temperature.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in bread bowls for a fun, cozy presentation or ladle into individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and a quick broil for a golden crusty finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers often even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Be aware that the texture of potatoes may slightly change after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on low heat in a pot, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the soup’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky smoked gouda can be delicious alternatives or additions to cheddar.

Is this soup freezer friendly?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, though the texture of the potatoes may soften a bit after thawing. Reheat slowly for best results.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and replace beef broth with vegetable broth, then consider adding more hearty vegetables or plant-based protein.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

The butter and flour roux thickens the soup nicely, but if you want it thicker, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the final simmer.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients (except the cheese) to a slow cooker. Add cheese at the end and stir well before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect blend of cozy comfort and rich flavor that’s quick to make and loved by everyone at the table. Whip up a batch tonight and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that feels like home in every spoonful.

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