Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings together the best of comfort food: creamy potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and rich, melty cheese. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights, satisfying family dinners, or a comforting lunch. It’s a one-pot meal that combines simple ingredients to create a soul-soothing soup loaded with flavor and texture.

Not only is this soup easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or make use of what you already have in your pantry. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself with a bowl of creamy deliciousness, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The velvety cheese base creates a luxurious soup that’s both filling and indulgent, delivering comfort in every spoonful.
• Easy to Make: With simple, everyday ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is ideal for home cooks of any skill level, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and potatoes are affordable, accessible staples that make this hearty soup economical without sacrificing flavor.
• Family Favorite: It’s kid-approved and a guaranteed hit with adults, making it a versatile dish that pleases everyone at the table.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal and less time spent cleaning up afterward.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this soup by adding vegetables, spices, or toppings like bacon, chives, or shredded cheese to make it your own.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (stirred in before serving)
• Crispy bacon bits
• Chopped green onions
• Croutons or oyster crackers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary and set the beef aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

1. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot.
2. Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken or beef broth, water, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. While the soup simmers, make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Soup

1. Once the potatoes are tender, stir the cheese sauce into the soup pot. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
2. If desired, stir in heavy cream or sour cream for extra richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as crispy bacon, green onions, or extra cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef

Ground beef adds a savory depth of flavor and a hearty texture to the soup. Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use a fattier blend and drain the excess grease. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.

Potatoes

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for this soup. Russets break down slightly during cooking, adding thickness, while Yukon Golds hold their shape and have a buttery flavor.

Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese provides bold flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.

Seasonings

Smoked paprika and thyme enhance the soup’s savory profile, while salt and pepper balance the flavors. Adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.

Technique Tips

• Brown the Beef Properly: Allow the ground beef to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before breaking it up to achieve better browning and flavor.
• Cut Even Potatoes: Dice the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid Boiling the Cheese Sauce: Heat it gently to prevent the cheese from becoming gritty.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cheese sauce.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation.
• Individual Casseroles: Transfer the soup to oven-safe bowls, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
• Layered Dish: Serve over a bed of mashed potatoes or with a side of roasted vegetables for a unique twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the soup from scorching.
• Gradually add the cheese to the sauce to ensure smooth melting.
• Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable-Packed Version: Add diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Bacon Hamburger Potato Soup: Replace the ground beef with crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute for those with dietary restrictions.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Replace some of the potatoes with cauliflower for fewer carbs.
• Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk to reduce calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Offer a toppings bar with bacon bits, green onions, shredded cheese, and sour cream for a fun, customizable experience.

Special Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup
• Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce
• Ladle for serving

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used instead of beef.

2. What’s the best way to reheat this soup?

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, replace the flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, peas, or corn would make excellent additions.

5. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

Mash some of the potatoes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beef, onions, and garlic first, then add everything except the cheese sauce to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Prepare the cheese sauce separately and stir it in before serving.

7. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, but reduce the simmering time to prevent them from becoming mushy.

8. What cheese substitutes work best?

Colby Jack, Gouda, or pepper jack can be used for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, offering the ultimate combination of warmth and flavor. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this soup delivers comfort and joy in every bowl. Pair it with a crusty piece of bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please. Try it today and savor the irresistible combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich, melted cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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