introduction
Since I was very young, cooking has always held a special place in my life. My name is Adam, and I learned the magic of flavors beside my mother. That early comfort shines in this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This hearty soup blends browned beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar in a creamy broth.
People search for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup when they want a fast family meal that feels like home. In this recipe you will learn clear steps, smart timing, and simple ingredient swaps. If you like easy comfort-food soups you may also enjoy a warm side like these cheesy ranch potatoes with smoked sausage, which match the same cozy flavors.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A rich and comforting Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to heat through, but avoid letting it boil.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
For variations, consider adding chopped bacon for a bacon cheeseburger soup or use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
why make this recipe
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup wins on taste and ease. It delivers rich, cheesy flavor without complicated prep. The recipe uses basic pantry items. You can make it on weeknights or for a casual weekend dinner. It stretches well for leftovers and reheats without losing texture.
This soup satisfies picky eaters and hungry adults alike. It also adapts easily: swap milk for half-and-half or use turkey in place of beef. If you want a spicy side, pair the soup with a simple taco-style dish like cheesy taco potatoes. Many cooks look for quick comfort recipes; Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup fills that need with minimal fuss and clear steps.
how to make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Start by building flavor in the pot. Heat oil and sweat the onion and garlic until soft. Brown the ground beef next. Break the meat into small pieces so it cooks evenly. Drain any excess fat so the broth stays clean. Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir in milk and heavy cream and warm gently. Do not let the soup boil once dairy is added. Add shredded cheddar a little at a time. Stir constantly so the cheese melts smoothly. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Key techniques matter. Browning the beef well adds a deep, caramelized flavor. Cook the potatoes until tender but not falling apart. When you add cheese, use medium heat and add it slowly. Stirring prevents grainy texture. Common mistakes include boiling after adding milk and adding cheese all at once. Both can cause a separated or greasy soup. With mild effort you will get a silky, rich Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup that holds together and tastes like a warm hug.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient plays a clear role. Ground beef gives the soup body and savory depth. Onion and garlic provide aromatics. Potatoes add starch to thicken the broth naturally. Chicken broth builds the base flavor. Milk and heavy cream create a rich, smooth texture. Cheddar adds the signature cheesy taste and helps thicken the soup further.
Use full-fat dairy for the best mouthfeel. For swaps, try half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup. Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or mild cheddar for a gentler taste. If you want a meat-free option, substitute cooked lentils and use vegetable broth. For another easy cheesy dinner idea, try these cheesy garlic chicken wraps which share a similar cheesy appeal.
Directions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Add potatoes and broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add milk and cream: Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to heat through, but avoid letting it boil.
- Melt the cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season and simmer: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. For extra flavor, garnish with more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions if desired.
For best results, follow these practices. Brown the beef in a hot pan for better flavor. Keep the heat low when adding dairy and cheese. Stir constantly while melting cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of broth. If it thins too much, simmer a bit longer to reduce and concentrate flavor.
how to serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Serve this soup hot in deep bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad. Top each bowl with extra shredded cheddar for presentation. You can also add crispy bacon or chopped chives for texture and color. For a fuller meal, serve the soup with a side of buttered dinner rolls or a grilled cheese sandwich. The soup balances creamy and savory notes. The potatoes add a gentle bite. The beef lends a savory backbone while the cheese brings comfort. For casual weeknights or game-day gatherings, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup fits both roles.
how to store Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Cool the soup quickly to room temperature before storing. Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through.
If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note: cream-based soups freeze best when slightly undercooked on the first day. Avoid reheating repeatedly. Reheat only the portion you plan to serve to keep texture and flavor at their best.
tips to make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Cut potatoes into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. Choose a sharp cheddar for a stronger taste. Skim excess fat from the browned beef to keep the broth from tasting greasy.
If you want a creamier base without as much dairy, mash a cup of cooked potatoes into the soup while simmering. For a faster version, use leftover roasted potatoes. Taste often and season in small increments. These small steps make a big difference in your final Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup.
variation (if any)
Make it a bacon cheeseburger soup by stirring in cooked, chopped bacon at the end. Add diced carrots and celery to build a heartier stew-style soup. For a spicy twist, add a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onions. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavor profiles.
To create a lower-carb version, replace potatoes with diced cauliflower. For a kids-friendly bowl, leave the seasoning mild and let guests add hot sauce at the table. Each variation preserves the core comfort of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup while offering fresh twists.
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
Yes. Add frozen potatoes directly to the broth and extend simmering time until tender.
Will the soup separate if I reheat it?
Reheat gently over low heat and stir often. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore texture.
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and sauté aromatics first. Then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cheese near the end.
Conclusion
If you want more recipe ideas or variations, check this classic take on hamburger potato soup at Hamburger Potato Soup (Best Creamy Recipe!) and a slow-cooker option at Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup – The Country Cook. For another simple homemade version, see Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup (Simple Ingredients, No Velveeta …) which offers yet another approach to this cozy bowl.