Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy blend of hearty potatoes, ground beef, melted cheese, and savory seasonings. This satisfying soup is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or when you’re craving something warm and indulgent. With tender chunks of potato, flavorful beef, and a velvety cheese-infused broth, every spoonful is pure comfort.

This recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or even make it lighter with a few simple swaps. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s guaranteed to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A cheese-packed broth creates a luxurious texture.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with potatoes and beef, this soup is a meal on its own.
• One-Pot Convenience: Simple preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, use different cheeses, or adjust spices to your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Cheesy, creamy, and familiar flavors make this soup a hit with kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: About 1.5 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups diced potatoes (Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes)
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or half-and-half)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• Crumbled bacon
• Chopped green onions
• Additional shredded cheese
• Fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot. If using lean ground beef or turkey, add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the olive oil (if needed) and sauté the diced onion over medium heat until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme (if using). Pour in the chicken or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, whisk the flour with the milk until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat to prevent curdling. Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Return the Ground Beef

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir to combine. If using shredded carrots, add them at this stage and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or additional shredded cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredient Background

• Ground Beef: Adds a savory, meaty flavor that complements the creamy base. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes create a creamy texture, while Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better and add a buttery flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, but medium or mild cheddar works well for a more subtle taste. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory depth of the soup, adding a subtle umami kick.

Technique Tips

• Avoid Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they simmer; overcooking can cause them to break down too much.
• Gradual Cheese Melting: Add the cheese in small handfuls and stir constantly to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t clump.
• Adjust the Thickness: For a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the cheese.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic and comforting presentation.
• Individual Mason Jars: For picnics or parties, portion the soup into small mason jars with lids for an easy, portable option.
• Layered Toppings: Create a topping bar with bacon, green onions, and cheese, allowing guests to customize their bowls.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prepping in Advance: Chop the potatoes, onions, and carrots ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
• Enhance Flavor: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for an extra tangy and creamy boost.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
• Bacon Lover’s Version: Cook diced bacon with the ground beef, then sprinkle extra crumbled bacon on top before serving.
• Extra Veggies: Add celery, bell peppers, or corn for additional texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For easy reheating, portion the soup into smaller containers to warm only what you need for a single serving. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, to preserve the creamy texture. If the soup has thickened during refrigeration, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add extra broth, milk, or water as needed to adjust the consistency, especially if the soup was frozen with potatoes, which may absorb some liquid. Avoid freezing soups with pre-added cheese or cream, as they can separate upon thawing. Instead, add these ingredients fresh when reheating.
• Portioning Tip: Freeze individual servings in silicone molds or muffin tins. Once frozen, transfer the portions to a large freezer bag. This method makes it easy to thaw just the right amount.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lean Protein: Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a leaner version. You can also try ground bison, which is lower in fat and rich in protein. For an even lighter option, shredded rotisserie chicken breast or diced tofu works well while maintaining heartiness.
• Lighter Dairy: Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk, plain unsweetened almond milk, or low-fat milk to cut down on calories while retaining a creamy consistency. Adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt instead of cream just before serving provides tang and richness with less fat. Another alternative is blending some of the cooked potatoes with broth to create a creamy base without adding dairy at all.
• Bulk with Veggies: Boost the soup’s nutritional value by incorporating diced zucchini, chopped kale, or spinach during the final minutes of cooking. Add grated carrots or chopped bell peppers for a touch of sweetness and color. For a low-carb version, replace half or all the potatoes with cauliflower florets or diced turnips. These vegetables mimic the texture of potatoes but with fewer carbs and calories.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use unsalted or low-sodium broth and season the soup sparingly with salt, relying on spices, fresh herbs, and Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.

By incorporating these storage and health-focused adaptations, you can make your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup as convenient, versatile, and nutritious as you need it to be!

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day: Serve in small bowls or mugs with crackers or breadsticks for a hearty game day snack.
• Family Dinner: Pair with a fresh green salad and warm rolls for a complete meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Double the recipe and bring it to a potluck in a slow cooker to keep it warm.

Special Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup.
• Potato masher or immersion blender for adjusting the soup’s texture.
• Ladle for serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?
Yes, pre-cooked ground beef works well and saves time. Simply add it during Step 6.

2. What if my soup is too thick?
Thin it out by adding additional broth or milk a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the beef and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything except the cheese and cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese and cream during the last 30 minutes.

4. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup, or omit the thickener altogether.

5. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns are a convenient substitute. Adjust cooking time as needed.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This soup doubles easily, but ensure your pot is large enough to hold the ingredients.

7. Can I add pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like macaroni or shells can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate blend of hearty ingredients and creamy, cheesy indulgence. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekends, this soup offers a comforting, one-pot solution to satisfy the whole family. With endless customization options and a foolproof preparation method, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Grab a bowl and dig into the cheesy, comforting goodness!

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