If you are craving a comforting bowl that brings together hearty flavors and creamy textures, this Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the rich taste of browned ground beef with tender potatoes and a luscious blend of cream and cheddar cheese, creating a soup that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need a simple, delicious meal, this soup’s approachable ingredients and straightforward steps make it an instant favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe plays a crucial role in layering flavors and building the perfect texture. From the savory ground beef to the creamy cheese, these simple staples come together beautifully to create a cozy, satisfying dish.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides the hearty, meaty base that makes this soup so filling and flavorful.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Adds a rich, savory liquid foundation that melds all the flavors.
- Potatoes (4 large, peeled and diced): Give the soup body and a tender, comforting texture.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed gently.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a subtle aromatic punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a luscious, velvety consistency that makes the soup so irresistible.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Offers sharp, melty richness that enriches every spoonful.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a slight tang and extra creaminess for balance.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates all the natural flavors in the soup.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a mild kick, rounded out with subtle warmth.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a smoky touch that enhances the savory profile.
- Dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Brings an earthy herbaceous note, rounding out the flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onions and garlic to golden perfection.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it gently, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent—this usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic, cooking for just about a minute to release its fragrant aroma without letting it burn. This base gives the soup a rich, inviting flavor that will carry through every bite.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef directly to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it browns thoroughly, with no pink remaining. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste, then stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. These seasonings infuse the beef with layered, warm flavors essential for an outstanding soup.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to blend all the ingredients nicely. Then add the peeled and diced potatoes, making sure they are fully submerged in the broth. This step brings together the meat and vegetables into a hearty, soupy mixture that is just waiting to simmer and develop deep flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will become perfectly tender, soaking up all the savory goodness from the broth and beef.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese for Ultimate Creaminess
Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream, mixing thoroughly until the soup instantly becomes rich and silky. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it has melted completely, creating a smooth, cheesy texture that makes this soup so comforting and crave-worthy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if you like, then let the soup simmer a bit longer to ensure everything is piping hot and melded beautifully.
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The joy of this soup is in the extras you can add to personalize each bowl. Top with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, cheesy finish or freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and mild sharpness. A dollop of sour cream is always a lovely touch if you want an added creamy tang.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last creamy spoonful. A crisp green salad balances the richness perfectly, while roasted vegetables add even more heartiness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls — hollow out round loaves and ladle in the soup for a rustic, charming presentation. You can also sprinkle some crispy bacon bits or add a handful of sautéed mushrooms on top for an extra layer of flavor. These little touches elevate an already amazing Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe into a memorable feast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a comforting second meal or quick reheat when time is tight.
Freezing
This Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you always have a delicious homemade soup ready to thaw and enjoy on busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the perfect consistency. Alternatively, microwave it in intervals, stirring in between. The creamy cheese and potatoes will taste just as delightful the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and will still bring that hearty protein element to the soup. You might want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey tends to be milder in flavor.
What type of potatoes work best for this soup?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are your best bets because they hold their shape well while becoming tender and creamy, adding satisfying texture to the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with coconut milk or any unsweetened dairy-free creamers. For the cheese, dairy-free shredded cheese options work well, too.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
You certainly can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then dump all ingredients except the cream and cheese into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding cream and cheese at the end.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy and slightly thick, thanks to the cheese and cream, but still ladle-able and smooth. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a little extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
There really is nothing like a warm bowl of this Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe to brighten up any day. Its simple ingredients come together to create a soul-soothing, rich, and endlessly satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to please. Dive into this recipe soon and discover why it’s become one of my go-to comfort foods — your taste buds will thank you!
