Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup has been my go-to meal for those chilly evenings when only something warm and comforting will do. I remember the first time I made it, the kitchen filled with the savory aroma of browned beef and simmering potatoes, topped with that irresistible melted cheddar. It instantly became a family favorite, and now I whip up this easy cheesy hamburger potato soup at least once a month. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of pure happiness, a true cheesy hamburger potato soup comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This soup is pure magic in a bowl, and I know you’ll fall in love with it just like my family did. It’s the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and cheesy goodness that just hits the spot.
- Taste: Rich, savory ground beef and tender potatoes swimming in a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s incredibly satisfying!
- Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious soup on the table in under an hour – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this is a fantastic way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike rave about this soup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Cheesy Cheeseburger Potato Soup: It tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger, but in a warm, comforting soup form.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add extra veggies or even some crispy bacon for a truly personalized cheesy cheeseburger potato soup experience.
- Comfort Food King: This hearty soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or anytime you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making the most delicious cheesy hamburger potato soup. I love how easily accessible everything is, making this a fuss-free recipe for any night of the week. The quality of these ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor, so I always try to use fresh whenever possible.
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey – I prefer 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor, but lean turkey works great for a lighter option.
- 4 medium potatoes, diced – Russets or Yukon Golds work wonderfully here; aim for about 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – a yellow or white onion adds a nice savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth – this forms the liquid base of our soup.
- 1 cup milk or cream – for that essential creamy texture. I often use whole milk, but heavy cream makes it extra decadent!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, but a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is also amazing.
- 2 tbsp butter – for sautéing the aromatics and making the roux.
- 2 tbsp flour – this helps thicken the soup to a perfect consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Optional additions: I love adding a pinch of paprika, a dash of dried thyme, some crumbled cooked bacon bits, or even extra veggies like chopped carrots or celery for added texture and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Follow these simple steps to create a truly delicious and comforting bowl of soup. I’ve found that paying attention to a few key details makes all the difference in achieving that perfect creamy, cheesy texture everyone loves. These cheesy hamburger potato soup instructions are designed to be easy to follow, even if you’re new to making soup from scratch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. I like to break it up as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Step 2: Melt 2 tbsp of butter in the same pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped medium onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 3-5 minutes until they become wonderfully fragrant and softened.
- Step 3: Add 4 medium diced potatoes and 4 cups of beef or vegetable broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them.
- Step 4: While the potatoes are simmering, let’s make our creamy base. In a separate small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp of flour until you have a smooth paste, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk or cream until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Step 5: Pour the thickened cream sauce into the pot with the potatoes and broth. Stir well to combine. Now, add the browned ground beef back into the soup. These cheesy hamburger potato soup instructions are getting exciting!
- Step 6: Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy and gooey. This is where the magic truly happens!
- Step 7: Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust as needed. Serve this delicious cheesy hamburger potato soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success
Want to make your cheesy potato soup with ground beef even better? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve. For a lighter version of this hamburger potato cheese soup recipe, I often use lean ground turkey and low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Don’t be afraid to add extra vegetables like chopped carrots or celery along with the onions – they boost the nutrition and add lovely texture. And for a smoky kick, crumbled cooked bacon bits are an absolute game-changer. These little additions can elevate your soup from great to absolutely unforgettable!
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Cheese Soup Recipe
When I make this soup, I always keep a few things in mind to ensure it turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful every single time. These little tricks really make a difference in elevating your hamburger potato cheese soup recipe from good to absolutely spectacular. Trust me, a little extra care goes a long way!
- Don’t skip browning the beef well; that depth of flavor is crucial.
- Ensure your potatoes are fork-tender before adding the dairy to avoid mushiness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end – cheese adds saltiness!
- For extra richness, consider using a mix of cheddar and a creamy cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
The secret to the best cheesy hamburger potato soup is building layers of flavor. Browning the beef well, sautéing the aromatics until fragrant, and using a good quality broth are key. Also, don’t rush the thickening process – a properly made roux creates that luxurious, creamy texture. For more on creating a good roux, check out this guide to making a roux.
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare all the components, like browning the beef and dicing the vegetables, up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the soup when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste. For more meal prep tips, explore our other recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Potato Soup with Ground Beef?
A common pitfall is overcooking the potatoes, turning them to mush. Cook them until just tender. Another mistake is not thickening the soup properly; ensure your roux is cooked for a minute before adding liquid. Lastly, adding the cheese too quickly can make it greasy, so stir it in gradually off the heat. Learning about common cooking mistakes can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Serving this hearty soup is all about creating a complete and satisfying meal. I love to pair it with something crunchy to contrast the creamy texture, making each bite more interesting. It’s the perfect main course for a cozy dinner party or a simple family meal.
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: A warm, crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into that rich, cheesy broth. You won’t want to leave a single drop behind!
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup. It balances the meal beautifully.
- Complementary Pairings: For a truly hearty meal, consider serving this as part of a larger spread. This soup makes an excellent starter or side to a simple roast chicken or even some grilled cheese recipes for an ultimate comfort food experience. This cheesy beef and potato soup is versatile enough for many occasions.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This hearty and satisfying soup is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. It makes for a filling meal that the whole family will enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving to help you understand what you’re enjoying.
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 22 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on understanding nutritional information, you can refer to these guidelines.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
I love that this simple cheesy hamburger potato soup is just as delicious leftover, making it perfect for meal prep. Once the soup has cooled down completely (this is important to prevent bacterial growth!), ladle it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option. This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
To reheat, I usually thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Then, gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the soup seems a little thick after reheating, just stir in a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
What is cheesy hamburger potato soup?
Cheesy hamburger potato soup is a hearty, comforting soup made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s essentially a delicious blend of a classic hamburger casserole and a creamy potato soup, creating a rich and satisfying meal in a bowl. It’s often seasoned with savory spices and can include other vegetables for added flavor and texture.
How to make cheesy hamburger potato soup
Making this soup is quite straightforward! You’ll start by browning ground beef, then sautéing onions and garlic. Diced potatoes and broth are added and simmered until tender. A simple roux made with butter and flour, combined with milk or cream, creates the creamy base. Finally, shredded cheddar cheese is stirred in until melted, resulting in a wonderfully gooey and delicious soup. It’s a simple process that yields incredible results!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides great meltability and flavor. Colby, Pepper Jack for a little heat, or even a bit of Gruyere can offer unique twists to your cheesy hamburger potato soup. Just ensure your cheese is finely shredded for the smoothest melt. For more cheese pairing ideas, explore our other content.
How do I make this soup lower in calories or fat?
To lighten up your cheesy ground beef potato chowder, you can use lean ground turkey instead of beef and opt for low-fat milk or a blend of milk and broth instead of heavy cream. Using a reduced-fat cheddar cheese can also help. Be mindful of adding extra salty ingredients like bacon bits if you’re watching sodium intake.
Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup You Can Try
I love how versatile this soup is! You can really make it your own with these fun cheesy hamburger potato soup variations. Whether you’re looking to boost the flavor, cater to dietary needs, or just try something a little different, there’s an option for everyone. These ideas are perfect for when you want to switch things up or add new dimensions to your favorite comfort food.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño along with the onions for a bit of heat. For a bit more spice, try Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Smoky Delight: My personal favorite is the addition of cheesy hamburger potato soup with bacon! Cook about 4-6 slices of bacon until crispy, crumble them, and stir half into the soup at the end and save the rest for topping. A little smoked paprika also adds a wonderful depth.
- Veggie Powerhouse: Boost the nutrients and texture by adding finely chopped carrots, celery, or even some frozen corn and peas along with the potatoes. These additions make for a heartier and more colorful bowl.
- Slow Cooker Shortcut: For an even easier approach, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, combine all ingredients (except the cheese) in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese at the end until melted.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: 4 Glorious Servings
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and creamy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe features savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, making it a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika, thyme, bacon bits, carrots, celery, sausage
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pot. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Add diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- While potatoes cook, melt butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk or cream until thickened.
- Stir the cream sauce into the potato mixture. Add the browned beef back to the pot.
- Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use lean turkey and low-fat milk.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrients.
- Bacon bits can add a smoky flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: N/A