Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Discover the rich, comforting flavor of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, a hearty and easy recipe perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week. This satisfying soup combines tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and plenty of melted cheese to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself after a long day, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup offers delicious depth of flavor with simple ingredients that come together quickly and effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: The creamy, cheesy broth combined with savory hamburger makes this soup incredibly satisfying and soothing.
• Easy weeknight dinner: With straightforward ingredients and quick prep time, it’s perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable and flexible: You can easily adjust ingredients to match what’s in your pantry or suit dietary preferences.
• Great for leftovers: The flavors deepen after a day, making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup just as delicious reheated.
• Family-friendly: This soup is generally a hit with both kids and adults, making it a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup relies on simple but essential ingredients that each play a role in bringing texture, flavor, and color to this hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll gather before getting started:

• Ground beef: Provides the rich, savory base protein that anchors the soup’s flavor.
• Potatoes: Offer comforting heartiness and soft bite, perfect for absorbing the cheesy broth.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly to create creamy texture and sharp, tangy taste.
• Onion and garlic: Add aromatic depth and a mild, sweet-savory bite.
• Beef broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation, enhancing the meaty richness of the soup.
• Milk or cream: Adds smoothness and balances the cheese with a velvety finish.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley brighten and round out the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

One of the best things about Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is how easy it is to adapt. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or swaps to cater to your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey: For a leaner version without losing the protein-packed punch.
• Add bacon bits: For smoky, crispy texture that complements the cheesy, creamy base beautifully.
• Use different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack to mix up the flavor profile.
• Include vegetables: Toss in corn, peas, or diced carrots to upgrade the nutritional value and add color.
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the hamburger

Start by cooking the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat to keep the soup rich but not greasy.

Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds the aromatic base for your soup.

Step 3: Add potatoes and broth

Stir in diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate cheese and milk

Lower the heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Season and serve

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Give everything a final stir and serve the soup hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

• Choose the right potatoes: Use russet or Yukon gold for ideal texture that holds up well during simmering.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t skip the sauté step: Cooking onions and garlic first releases their full flavor potential.
• Simmer low and slow: Avoid boiling the soup once cheese is added to prevent separation.
• Add dairy gradually: Stir milk and cheese in slowly to help the soup stay creamy and avoid curdling.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a pop of color and brightness, while crispy bacon bits or green onions introduce texture and extra savory notes. A dollop of sour cream can also bring delightful creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a simple side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread makes a fantastic companion to soak up every last drop of the cheesy broth.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun twist, or layer it over a bed of cooked rice or egg noodles to transform it into a heartier entrée. For a family-friendly touch, set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even further, making it just as tasty when reheated.

Freezing

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup freezes well, but to maintain texture, consider freezing without the milk or cheese and adding them fresh when reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat while stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup is too thick from refrigeration for a smooth, creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack work wonderfully and add unique flavors.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, you can substitute the hamburger with plant-based meat alternatives or simply add more vegetables and beans for protein while keeping it rich and filling.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Brown the hamburger and sauté veggies first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding cheese and dairy near the end.

What type of potatoes are best for this soup?

Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are best as they hold their shape while softening just enough in the soup’s broth.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping or separating?

Add the cheese slowly over low heat and stir continuously. Avoid boiling the soup once dairy is added, as high heat can cause separation.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup that warms you inside out. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit any mood or season. Give this recipe a try the next time you crave comfort food—it might just become your new favorite go-to meal!

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