This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or gatherings with friends. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in just one pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this soup in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make it your own.
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is sure to keep you satisfied, making it perfect for chilly days.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and cheesy goodness.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the process and help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking and combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring as it won’t scratch your pot’s surface.
- Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
For Creaminess
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Step 1: 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.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Let this mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cream
Pour in both the milk and heavy cream while stirring to combine. Allow this soup to heat through but avoid boiling.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly until melted completely into a smooth soup.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Let it simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes so that flavors meld together nicely while thickening slightly.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls. For added flavor, consider garnishing with more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Serving Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup is versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions that will not only enhance the flavors but also add variety to your dining table.
Toppings
- Shredded Cheese: Add a handful of extra cheddar cheese on top for a melty finish.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch that complements the creamy soup.
- Sliced Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a nice pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide a tangy contrast to the rich soup.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These are perfect for sopping up the delicious broth.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad can lighten the meal and add some crisp freshness.
- Pickles or Relish: A side of pickles can bring a tangy bite that complements the soup.
How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
To achieve the best version of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and ground beef make a significant difference in taste and texture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allowing time for flavors to meld enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- Adjust Cheese Quantity: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors; Gruyère or Monterey Jack also work well.
- Thicken if Needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options that complement this delicious soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich soup.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful texture alongside the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges give an additional potato fix while adding crunchiness.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead and are an excellent hearty side option.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a sweet end to your meal without being heavy.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a nice contrast to the hot soup while being filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long can make them mushy. Check for tenderness after 15 minutes of simmering.
- Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using cheap cheese can impact the flavor and texture. Opt for good-quality cheddar for a creamy finish.
- Neglecting the Broth: A weak broth can dilute the soup’s flavor. Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth for the best results.
- Rushing the Cheese Melting: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually add cheese while stirring for a smooth consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until evenly warmed.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide flavor while being lighter.
How do I thicken Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
You can thicken the soup by adding more cheese or using a cornstarch slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and water.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better after sitting as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly!
What toppings go well with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
Consider toppings like crispy bacon bits, green onions, or additional shredded cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a delightful blend of comforting flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, making it an ideal choice whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night at home. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This creamy, hearty soup combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich melted cheese to create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With minimal prep and just one pot required, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether garnished with crispy bacon bits or fresh green onions, every bowl promises warmth and flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
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 olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned; drain excess grease.
- Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Mix in milk and heavy cream. Avoid boiling.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until fully melted.
- Season with salt and pepper; let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
