There’s something truly special about a big bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. The creamy texture, combined with tender potatoes and savory beef, creates a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort. It’s wonderfully indulgent, with a rich cheesy flavor that envelops each bite. I whip it up whenever I’m craving something cozy or when I want to gather friends and family around the table for an evening of hearty, satisfying goodness.
This soup comes together surprisingly fast, which makes it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s versatile, too—great as a filling main dish or served with a simple side salad for a lighter option. And let’s talk leftovers: they’re a dream, as this soup tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had a chance to meld together beautifully.
Why I Love Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup hits that sweet spot between ease and flavor. It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious—truly a winner at my table! The combination of creamy broth, tender potatoes, and melting cheddar offers a satisfying twist that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Ingredients
The magic of this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup truly lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a unique role in creating this comforting dish. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 lb GROUND BEEF: The hearty base that provides protein and richness.
- 1 SMALL ONION, DICED: These little gems pack a mighty punch, adding sweetness and depth.
- 3 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: They introduce that aromatic flair that makes your kitchen smell divine.
- 4 CUPS POTATOES, PEELED AND DICED: Tender, creamy bites that bulk up the soup and soak up all that delicious flavor.
- 4 CUPS CHICKEN BROTH: The liquid gold that forms the soup’s lovely foundation.
- 2 CUPS SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE: The star of the show, offering that melty, glorious cheesiness we all crave.
- 1 CUP MILK: It smoothens and enriches the texture.
- 1 CUP HEAVY CREAM: For an ultra-creamy finish that feels indulgent.
- 1 TBSP OLIVE OIL: A little glimmer to sauté the vegetables.
- SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE: Essential for rounding out and enhancing all the flavors.
Substitutions and Tips
Need a swap? If you don’t have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can work well, though the flavor will be a bit lighter. Want a creamy alternative? Consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly less rich soup. If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to add in your favorite veggies like carrots or corn for more color and texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Ladle
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Let’s dive into creating this creamy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a rich, smooth soup that’s bursting with flavor!
Sauté Aromatics for Flavor Base
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. This step is key, as those aromatics lay the groundwork for your beautiful soup.
Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up as it cooks, continuing until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily. You want that beef to shine without being greasy!
Add Potatoes and Broth
Once the beef is ready, stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until those potatoes are tender. This is the moment where the magic starts to happen!
Pour in Milk and Cream
Now, pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Allow the soup to heat through but be careful not to let it boil. The goal here is a lovely, creamy consistency that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Melt the Cheese
Next, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. You want that luscious goodness to envelop every spoonful!
Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, letting the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the soup thicken just a bit. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Serve and Garnish
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. For extra flavor, why not garnish with more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions? Each adds a delightful twist that elevates the experience.
How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), this soup holds up wonderfully! You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours after serving. For fridge storage, transfer it to an airtight container, where it will last about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, go ahead—this soup will be fine for 2-3 months! Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste—especially the beef and potatoes.
- When adding cheese, turn off the heat to avoid clumping.
- Taste as you season! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes after cooking before adding the cheese.
- Don’t skip the garnishes; they add flavor and a pop of color!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
- Serve alongside a crisp garden salad for a light complement.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flair.
- Present in rustic bowls for a cozy dinner vibe.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup as much as I do! There’s nothing quite like gathering around with loved ones, indulging in this creamy, heartwarming dish, and creating wonderful memories together. Happy cooking!
