Introduction
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the rich, creamy, and delicious comfort food you’ve been craving. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese, every bite is a warm, satisfying sensation. Perfect for cold winter evenings or cozy family meals, this soup is simple to prepare and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
A Perfect Comfort Dish
This soup combines the flavorful goodness of ground beef, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s hearty and rich, warming you from the inside out.
Family-Friendly and Filling
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a quick recipe that will please the entire family. It’s delicious, filling, and loved by kids and adults alike.
Quick and Simple
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this soup is ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, warm meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
TIP: Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and make cleanup easier.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same saucepan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
TIP: Cooking vegetables in the same pan enhances flavor by incorporating browned bits from the beef.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth
- Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
TIP: Dice the potatoes into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
4. Add Milk and Cheese
- Stir in the whole milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
TIP: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or an extra handful of cheese.
5. Season and Serve
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
TIP: Garnish with shredded cheese, chopped chives, or crispy bacon crumbles for added flavor.
Pro Tips
- Make It Your Own: Add diced carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating.
Customizations & Add-Ons
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Chunky Style: Add corn kernels or diced bell peppers for added texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but omit the cheese and milk before freezing. Add them when reheating to maintain a creamy texture.
Q: What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
A: For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork and stir them back into the pot.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or a mix of cheeses all work well.