Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Warm up with rich and creamy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, a hearty meal perfect for cozy dinners and satisfying cravings. This comforting soup combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a luscious cheesy broth to create a dish that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to impress family at dinner or just want a simple, filling meal, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup checks all the boxes with layers of flavor and satisfying textures that make every spoonful unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its best: Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup offers a warm, hearty experience that feels soothing on even the coldest days.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: This recipe uses straightforward pantry staples that come together to create a deeply satisfying taste.
• Flexible and customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite spices or add-ins, making it perfect for any dietary preference.
• One-pot meal magic: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked together, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly and kid-approved: The familiar flavors of beef, potatoes, and cheese make it a hit for all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients makes Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup quick and enjoyable to prepare. Every component plays a crucial role: potatoes add creaminess and texture, ground beef contributes savory depth, and cheese brings rich, velvety flavors.

• Ground beef: Choose lean or regular for the perfect hearty base and meaty flavor.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for a creamy, soft texture that thickens the soup naturally.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds boldness and melts beautifully to create that signature cheesy broth.
• Onion and garlic: Classic aromatics that build a flavorful foundation.
• Chicken broth: Provides a savory liquid base to bind all flavors effortlessly.
• Butter and flour: Combined to make a simple roux that thickens the soup to the perfect consistency.
• Milk or cream: Adds smooth creaminess and balances the heartiness of the beef and potatoes.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika or thyme enhance and round out the dish.

Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Feel free to tailor this soup to your preferences or what you have on hand. The recipe’s flexibility means you can easily swap ingredients or add extras to keep things interesting and customize your comfort bowl.

• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat without overpowering the creamy base.
• Vegetable boost: Toss in chopped carrots, celery, or peas to add more nutrients and color.
• Different cheese blend: Mix mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for unique cheesy flavors.
• Low-carb option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets and use heavy cream to keep it creamy and filling.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. This builds the flavor base and infuses the soup with a savory aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Roux

Push the beef and veggies to one side, then melt butter in the pot. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for a couple of minutes to cook the raw flour taste out and form a thickening base for the soup.

Step 4: Add Broth, Potatoes, and Seasonings

Gradually stir in chicken broth to avoid lumps, then add diced potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender and the soup starts to thicken.

Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cheese

Pour in milk or cream and slowly add shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste and keep warm on low heat before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

• Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets create a naturally creamy texture as they cook down.
• Don’t skip the roux: Making the butter and flour mixture ensures your soup has that irresistible thick, silky mouthfeel.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can contain additives that affect melting, so grate fresh for the best result.
• Season gradually: Add salt and spices in steps and taste frequently to avoid over-seasoning.
• Low and slow simmer: This helps flavors meld together and keeps the potatoes from breaking apart too much.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top your bowl with crispy bacon bits, freshly chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar to add texture and flavor contrast that brightens each spoonful.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm crusty bread, homemade cornbread, or a light green salad to balance the richness and make a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or top with crumbled tortilla chips for extra crunch and a handheld contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This soup freezes well—transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently warm leftover Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much after chilling, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker except cheese and milk. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding cheese and milk near the end to finish.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for its robust flavor and smooth melting properties, but you can experiment with Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different twist.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux, and verify your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use instant potatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, but instant mashed potatoes can be stirred in for thickening at the end if you’re short on time, though it won’t have quite the same hearty bite.

How spicy is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup naturally?

This soup is mild by default, with most heat coming from optional seasonings like paprika or cayenne, so it’s very family-friendly and adjustable to your spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a soul-satisfying bowl of comfort that’s both simple and delicious. With its rich cheesy warmth, hearty potatoes, and savory beef, it effortlessly brings people together at the dinner table. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it’s your go-to meal for chilly evenings and when you need a little tasty cheer.

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