Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, filling meal that’s both hearty and indulgent, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is exactly what you need. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the satisfying warmth of a potato soup. It’s the type of dish that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket on a chilly day, with the added bonus of being able to enjoy it with a spoon rather than a fork and knife.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that it’s incredibly customizable. You can load it up with extra cheese, choose different seasonings to suit your tastes, or even add toppings like crispy bacon and fresh chives for some extra flair. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or just for yourself on a lazy weekend, this soup is quick to make and will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive right into how to make this cheesy, comforting masterpiece!

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe

Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to make a rich and creamy hamburger potato soup, packed with flavor in every bite. From the creamy base to the perfectly seasoned hamburger chunks and tender potatoes, you’ll be hooked after the very first spoonful.

Ingredients Needed

Before you get cooking, let’s talk about what you’ll need to pull off this delicious soup. Luckily, it’s a pretty straightforward list of ingredients, but you can always add your own twist if you prefer!

• 1 lb ground beef – This is the “hamburger” part of the recipe. I recommend using a good quality beef for the best flavor. You could also swap this out for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner version.
• 4 large russet potatoes – Peeled and diced into small cubes. Russets are perfect because they’re starchy, which helps thicken the soup and give it that hearty, filling texture.
• 1 medium onion – Diced. It adds a savory base flavor that complements the beef and potatoes beautifully.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Garlic takes this soup to the next level with its deep, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – No shortcuts here-go for the real stuff! Sharp cheddar works best because of its tanginess and richness.
• 4 cups beef broth – For that deep, savory flavor base. You can also use chicken broth, but beef broth gives it a more substantial taste.
• 2 cups whole milk – The creamy foundation for the soup. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a milk alternative.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – This adds to the creaminess and gives the soup a slightly tangy edge.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the beef and vegetables, and just adding that little touch of richness.
• Salt and pepper – To taste. Don’t be afraid to season generously, especially with the beef, to bring out the flavors.
• Optional toppings: Crumbled bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These elevate the soup with some added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s dive into the process of making this cheesy hamburger potato soup!

1. Cook The Ground Beef

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat, leaving just a little bit for flavor.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • To the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step is crucial because it brings out the depth of flavor in the soup.

3. Cook The Potatoes

   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the beef broth. Stir well to combine, making sure the potatoes are submerged in the broth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Add The Dairy And Cheese

   • Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the milk and sour cream. Let the soup come back to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken up a bit.
   • Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Season And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. This is also a good time to adjust the thickness; if it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with your favorite garnishes like crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, or extra cheese. Enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

When you’re making a soup this flavorful, every ingredient plays a significant role in the overall dish. Here’s a deeper dive into why these ingredients are key:

• Ground Beef: This is the star of the show. You want a slightly fattier ground beef, as the fat gives the soup richness and flavor. It’s the perfect counterpart to the creamy potatoes and cheese.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because their starch content helps thicken the soup, making it hearty and filling. They also absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, giving every spoonful a burst of taste.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar really shines through in this soup. It balances the richness of the beef and potatoes and gives it that ultimate cheesy comfort food vibe. You can go wild and use a blend of cheeses if you like to experiment!
• Sour Cream: Adding sour cream gives the soup that creamy, tangy kick. It balances out the richness and adds a layer of flavor that ties everything together.

Expert Tips

To elevate your cheesy hamburger potato soup, try these expert tips:

• Brown the beef well: The more you brown the beef, the deeper the flavor. Don’t rush this step-let the beef get nice and crispy on the edges for maximum flavor.
• Use real cheese: While it may be tempting to use processed cheese, don’t! Real sharp cheddar cheese will melt more smoothly and provide a richer, more satisfying flavor.
• Stir constantly while adding cheese: This helps the cheese melt evenly and prevents it from clumping. You want a smooth, velvety texture for your soup.
• Make it ahead of time: Like most soups, this one tastes even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together, making it even richer and more flavorful.

Recipe Variations

While this classic cheesy hamburger potato soup is delicious on its own, you can experiment with variations to match your tastes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Try adding spinach, kale, or even peas to boost the nutritional value.
• Use different meats: Swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even sausage. For a smokier flavor, consider adding cooked bacon.
• Make it spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce for a spicy twist. You could also experiment with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Go for a low-carb version: For a lighter, low-carb soup, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets. They’ll soften up and mimic the texture of potatoes while keeping the carbs in check.

Final Words

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the kind of dish that brings everyone together. It’s simple yet satisfying, with its hearty chunks of potatoes, rich beef, and indulgent cheese. Plus, it’s a fantastic base for personalizing with your favorite toppings and variations. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress.