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There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate in cozy, hearty meals. This satisfying recipe combines tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, rich broth, and gooey melted cheddar cheese to create a dish that hits every comforting note. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this soup is easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a warm, filling meal, this dish delivers everything you need in one bowl.

One of the great things about this soup is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, use what you have on hand, or cater to picky eaters. The combination of textures—from the soft potatoes to the savory meat and the smooth, melted cheese—makes every spoonful satisfying. Best of all, it’s a one-pot recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. So if you’re looking for a hearty soup that’s both delicious and simple to prepare, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein-rich ground beef and starchy potatoes, this soup is a full meal in a bowl.
Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich, cheesy flavor.
Budget-Friendly – Uses common pantry staples, making it an affordable dinner option.
Easy to Prepare – Made in one pot with straightforward steps, ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Easily adaptable with variations to fit dietary needs or ingredient availability.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Potatoes (preferably Yukon Gold)
Cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Beef broth (or chicken/vegetable as alternatives)
Milk or cream
Butter
Flour
Seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs of choice)

Variations

Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground “meat” and vegetable broth.
Extra Veggies: Add corn, peas, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.
Bacon Boost: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra smokiness and depth.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add butter, then sauté chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until softened.

Step 3: Add Flour and Broth

Sprinkle in flour and stir for a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add Potatoes

Add diced Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Return Beef to Pot

Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot and stir to combine.

Step 6: Stir in Dairy

Reduce heat and stir in milk or cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is fully melted and soup is creamy.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt, pepper, and herbs as desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and melting.
Don’t overcook the potatoes—stop when they’re fork-tender.
Simmer gently after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
Use a good-quality broth for richer flavor.
Stir frequently after adding cheese to ensure smoothness.

How to Serve

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup hot in bowls with crusty bread or rolls on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the soup before adding dairy. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add milk and cheese after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and dairy) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in dairy and cheese at the end.

2. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns can work in a pinch but may result in a softer texture.

3. What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts well and offers bold flavor, but you can also use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda.

4. How can I thicken the soup?

Add more flour during the roux stage or mash some of the potatoes after they cook for a thicker texture.

5. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

6. What herbs go well in this soup?

Parsley, thyme, and chives all pair nicely with the flavors in this soup.

7. Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written, due to the flour. Substitute with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch if needed.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Coconut milk may slightly alter the flavor.

9. What should I serve with it?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh salad are all great accompaniments.

10. Can I make it ahead for meal prep?

Yes! It reheats well and can be stored in portioned containers for easy meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a hearty, soul-warming dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and convenience. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again for weeknight dinners or cold-weather cravings. Whether you stick to the classic or try out one of the many variations, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.