Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: A Comforting Recipe for Every Occasion

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty bowl of soup on a cold day. And when that soup is packed with flavorful ingredients like hamburger, potatoes, and cheese, it becomes even more comforting. Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is one of those dishes that combine rich, savory ingredients into a warm, creamy bowl of deliciousness, perfect for any time of year.

This soup is not only tasty and filling but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone craving a satisfying meal. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner, and it’s even better when served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. From understanding the key ingredients to tips for perfecting the recipe, we’ll cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

The Key Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide on how to make this soup, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that come together to make it so delicious.

1. Ground Beef (Hamburger Meat)

The main protein in this soup is ground beef, often referred to as hamburger meat. It’s an affordable and versatile option that pairs perfectly with potatoes and cheese. You can choose a lean ground beef for a slightly healthier option, or opt for a more flavorful regular ground beef with higher fat content. The fat from the ground beef provides a rich, savory base for the soup, adding depth to the overall flavor.

Why it’s essential: The ground beef provides a hearty protein base that balances the creamy texture of the soup. As it cooks, it releases natural juices that enhance the soup’s overall flavor, making it savory and satisfying.

2. Potatoes

Potatoes are the heart of any potato-based soup, and in this case, they add a delicious starchy base that soaks up the flavors of the broth and meat. The starch in the potatoes helps thicken the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture that complements the ground beef.

Type of potato to use: You’ll want to use a starchy potato, such as Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties break down a little as they cook, giving the soup a nice, thick consistency.
How to prepare them: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. There’s no need to peel them unless you prefer to do so, as the skins will soften during cooking and add extra nutrients and flavor.

3. Cheese

The star ingredient in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is, of course, the cheese. A combination of shredded cheddar cheese and other cheeses (such as Monterey Jack or Colby cheese) creates a creamy, velvety texture and gives the soup its cheesy flavor. The cheese is added toward the end of cooking, allowing it to melt into the soup and create that rich, gooey goodness we all love.

Cheddar cheese is the most common choice, as it offers a sharp and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors and textures.
Shredded cheese melts better than block cheese, so it’s recommended to shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese (which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture).

4. Broth

To give the soup its smooth and savory consistency, broth is a must. Beef broth or chicken broth can be used as a base, but beef broth pairs particularly well with the hamburger meat for a deeper, richer flavor.

Why broth is important: The broth helps to cook the potatoes, infuse the soup with flavor, and create a smooth, liquid base. You can use low-sodium broth to control the salt level, or opt for a homemade broth for an extra depth of flavor.

5. Milk and Cream

To turn this soup from just a regular potato soup to a creamy, indulgent dish, milk and heavy cream are essential. The milk provides a smooth texture, while the heavy cream adds richness and body.

Why use both?: Milk offers a lighter base while cream thickens the soup and makes it extra smooth. The combination results in a perfectly creamy consistency that complements the other ingredients.

6. Vegetables and Aromatics

While this soup is centered around the rich flavors of beef and potatoes, adding some vegetables enhances both the flavor and texture. Onions, garlic, and celery are often used as aromatics in soups, as they provide depth and a savory foundation. Carrots can also be added for a bit of sweetness and color.

Why they’re needed: These vegetables not only enhance the overall flavor of the soup, but they also provide added texture and nutrients. The onions and garlic are sautéed first, adding a deep, savory base, while the celery and carrots bring freshness and balance.

7. Spices and Seasonings

The right spices and seasonings can elevate any dish, and this soup is no exception. Common seasonings for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup include:

Salt and pepper: For basic seasoning
Thyme or oregano: For a herbal touch
Paprika: Adds a bit of warmth and depth
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick of heat
Why seasoning is key: Seasonings allow all the ingredients to shine. Salt enhances the natural flavors of the soup, while herbs like thyme or oregano add depth. A pinch of paprika can give the soup a subtle smoky flavor, and red pepper flakes give it a gentle spice that pairs well with the creamy base.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook the beef until it is no longer pink and has browned nicely. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Tip: If your beef releases a lot of fat, you can drain the excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy. A little bit of fat can be left in the pot for flavor, but be mindful not to add too much.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Once the ground beef is browned, add the onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté them together with the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This will build a flavorful base for your soup.

Tip: If you’re using carrots, add them at this stage as well. You want the vegetables to soften and absorb the flavors of the beef.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in your broth (beef or chicken broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer. The broth should just cover the potatoes and meat. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Tip: Be sure to use enough broth to cover the potatoes so they can cook properly. If necessary, add a bit more broth or water to ensure the potatoes are fully submerged.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes cook evenly. If the soup looks too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Once the potatoes are cooked, add the milk and heavy cream to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Tip: Reduce the heat to low once you add the cream to avoid curdling.

Gradually add the cheddar cheese (and any other cheese you’re using) to the soup, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup becomes creamy. Be patient and stir until the cheese is fully incorporated.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and any other spices you like. If you want a bit of heat, now’s the time to add some red pepper flakes.

Tip: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning is key to making the soup flavorful and balanced.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the soup is perfectly seasoned and creamy, it’s time to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.

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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Ingredients