A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

When the temperatures drop and you find yourself craving something warm, hearty, and undeniably delicious, there’s no better choice than Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect blend of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that satisfies the soul as much as the stomach, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

This recipe is perfect for busy families, cozy dinner gatherings, or anyone looking to create a simple yet impressive meal. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, this step-by-step guide will ensure you achieve delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can have a hearty soup ready in under an hour.
2. Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens.
3. Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
4. Family-Approved: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich, cheesy flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, crispy turkey bacon bits, additional shredded cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your soup light and flavorful.

Pro Tip: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the need for draining and make the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the soup’s savory foundation.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

Toss in the diced potatoes, stirring to coat them in the beef and onion mixture. Allow them to cook for a couple of minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

While the soup simmers, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the mixture thickens, remove it from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.

Pro Tip: For an extra cheesy kick, mix sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gouda.

Step 6: Combine and Season

Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the soup. Stir well until everything is combined and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite garnishes, such as chopped green onions, crispy turkey bacon bits, or extra shredded cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef with plant-based ground meat or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch or rice flour.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the soup for extra heat.
• Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, crumbled bacon, and chives for a loaded baked potato soup vibe.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Freezing Tips: You can freeze this soup, but note that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

• Serve with Bread: Pair this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or soft dinner rolls to soak up every drop of the creamy goodness.
• Salad Side: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Beverage: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a refreshing iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.

2. What’s the best way to dice potatoes quickly? Peel and slice the potatoes into thick rounds, then stack and cut them into cubes. A sharp knife and steady hand make this process faster and safer.

3. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently.

4. Is there a low-fat version? Use lean ground beef, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese to lighten the dish while maintaining its creamy texture.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that you’ve got everything you need to create this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Share the warmth and comfort of this dish with your loved ones, and don’t forget to make it your own with the suggested variations and toppings.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and tips to elevate your cooking game. Happy cooking!