Name: Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (or use frozen diced hash browns); 3 cups beef or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups half-and-half or whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something universally comforting about a bowl of hot, cheesy soup, especially when it’s loaded with hearty ingredients like hamburger and potatoes. Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for cooler nights or when you’re in need of a soul-warming meal. This dish blends the rich, savory flavor of ground beef with creamy potatoes and melty cheddar cheese, delivering spoonful after spoonful of satisfaction. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor.

This soup brings together the heartiness of a hamburger and the indulgent creaminess of cheese, all enveloped in a thick, savory broth that clings to every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking for a crowd, or just want leftovers to enjoy through the week, this recipe has you covered. It’s flexible enough to accommodate different dietary needs and pantry staples, and the steps are easy enough for beginner home cooks to follow. Plus, the ingredients are affordable and likely already in your kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this soup a must-try and how you can make it your new go-to comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Satisfying – This soup is thick, cheesy, and packed with ground beef and tender potatoes, making it a filling meal on its own.
Simple to Make – With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or beginners in the kitchen.
Customizable – You can adapt the recipe easily with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses based on what you have on hand.
Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors and creamy texture.
Perfect for Leftovers – It stores and reheats well, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Potatoes (preferably Yukon Gold)
Cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Broth (beef preferred, but vegetable or chicken works)
Milk or cream
Butter
Flour
Salt
Pepper
Optional herbs or spices (like thyme, paprika, or parsley)

Variations

Protein Swaps

Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile.

Vegetarian Version

Skip the meat entirely and increase the vegetables. Add beans or lentils for protein.

Extra Veggies

Toss in corn, peas, spinach, or kale for added nutrition and texture.

Spicy Kick

Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Different Cheeses

Try using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for a twist on flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Beef and Milk

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, followed by the milk or cream. Stir to combine.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese

Turn off the heat and slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture—they hold their shape well.
Shred cheese fresh from a block to avoid additives that affect melting.
Stir constantly when adding flour and liquid to prevent lumps.
Don’t boil the soup after adding cheese to avoid curdling.
Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

How to Serve

With Bread: Pair with crusty bread, garlic toast, or dinner rolls for dipping.
Topped with Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of extra cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon bits.
As a Starter or Main: Serve it as a rich appetizer or a full meal with a side salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave a bit of room for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, but avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes as they can become mushy.

2. What kind of cheese melts best in this soup?

Freshly shredded cheddar works best. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.

4. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Absolutely. Just reheat it with the other ingredients.

5. Is this soup spicy?

Not inherently. You can add spices to adjust the heat level to your liking.

6. Can I use evaporated milk instead of cream?

Yes, evaporated milk is a good substitute for cream.

7. How can I make it thicker?

Simmer longer uncovered or add a bit more flour during the roux step.

8. Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes, small pasta like elbow macaroni can be added, but cook it separately to avoid sogginess.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Stovetop over low heat is best; add liquid to regain the creamy texture.

10. How do I make it more flavorful?

Use a high-quality broth, season well, and consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food—simple, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something hearty and cheesy, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its combination of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!