Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that hugs you from the inside out, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is exactly what you need. Warm up with this creamy, hearty soup packed full of savory flavors, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want a dish that satisfies your soul, this recipe brings together the best of rich, cheesy goodness and classic hamburger soup all in one pot. Trust me, this soup is going to be your new favorite go-to comfort food for the season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and comforting: Loaded with potatoes, ground beef, and melted cheese, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
• Simple ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples that come together without fuss or complicated prep.
• Family-friendly flavors: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to kids and adults alike with its creamy, cheesy taste.
• Quick weeknight meal: Ready in under an hour, perfect when you want something delicious without the wait.
• Customizable: Adapt it easily with different cheeses, veggies, or seasonings to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating an irresistible Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. Each component plays a vital role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and warmth to this comforting dish.

• Ground beef: Provides that hearty, savory base packed with protein and rich flavor.
• Russet potatoes: The perfect tender yet sturdy potatoes that soak up flavors beautifully.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty cheese adds depth and the signature cheesy creaminess.
• Onion and garlic: Aromatics that enhance the overall savory profile with subtle sweetness.
• Beef broth: Adds richness and a flavorful liquid base.
• Milk or cream: Creates a luscious creamy texture that makes every bite dreamy.
• Butter and flour: For making a homemade roux, giving the soup that velvety thickness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika or thyme to lift every spoonful.

Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

One of the best parts about this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is how easy it is to customize. You can tweak this recipe to fit your dietary needs, add a personal twist, or simply switch things up for variety.

• Vegetable boost: Add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
• Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
• Turkey or chicken: Substitute lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner protein.
• Dairy-free version: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy without lactose.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until evenly browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until fragrant and translucent, which will build a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Stir in butter until melted, then sprinkle flour over the mixture. Cook for a minute or two while stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a thickening base.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Potatoes

Slowly whisk in beef broth and milk, making sure there are no lumps. Add peeled and diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Season

Once the potatoes are soft, gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until silky and melted into the soup. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste. Let it warm through, allowing flavors to blend.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

• Brown beef well: Properly browning the meat enhances its flavor and prevents a bland soup.
• Don’t skip the roux: It’s crucial for that creamy, thick consistency that makes this soup so satisfying.
• Add cheese gradually: Stir cheese in slowly on low heat to avoid curdling or clumping.
• Potatoes size matters: Dice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Adjust thickness: Thin with extra broth if too thick, or simmer longer to thicken.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Garnishes

Toppings take this soup from cozy to next-level indulgent. Fresh chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or extra shredded cheese create beautiful layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad to round out the meal with contrasting crispness and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or topped with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Stir well before reheating for even flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months—just leave out the cheese when freezing and add fresh shredded cheese when reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much in storage.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients except the cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in cheese just before serving.

What kind of cheese works best for this soup?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because it melts smoothly and offers bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

While fresh diced potatoes work best for texture, frozen cubed potatoes can be used—just adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a cornstarch slurry or use gluten-free all-purpose flour when making the roux.

How do I make the soup creamier?

Adding a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking can boost creaminess, as can using whole milk instead of skim.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a cozy, flavorful hug on a chilly day that’s incredibly simple to whip up. With its creamy texture, savory beef, tender potatoes, and that irresistible cheese pull, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you stick to the classic or get creative with variations, this soup is sure to become your comfort food staple. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and dive into a bowl of pure comfort tonight!

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