Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup on a chilly evening. This hearty dish brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make on repeat.

I first tried this recipe as a way to use up leftover ground beef, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and packed with flavor, making it a win for everyone at the table. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to add this recipe to your regular rotation. It’s not just a soup—it’s a bowl of pure comfort that checks all the right boxes.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep work and simple steps, this soup comes together in under an hour, perfect for those evenings when you need something quick and satisfying.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, and basic seasonings means you can enjoy a rich, filling meal without breaking the bank.

The flavors are wonderfully family-friendly, too. The creamy broth and tender chunks of potato are mild enough for picky eaters, yet satisfying for those who crave a heartier dish.

Finally, this recipe is endlessly customizable. Whether you want to sneak in extra veggies, swap out the protein, or add some spice, this soup adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that rich, cozy flavor.

Ground beef is the star of the show. Opt for an 80/20 blend to strike the perfect balance between flavor and texture. If you prefer leaner beef, just add a bit of olive oil to the pan to keep it from drying out.

Potatoes provide the hearty base for this soup. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly during cooking, helping to thicken the broth. For a firmer texture, Yukon Golds work beautifully.

Onions and garlic build a flavorful foundation. These aromatics are sautéed alongside the beef, infusing every bite with savory goodness.

Chicken broth and heavy cream create a velvety broth. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the richness of heavy cream is worth the splurge.

Cheddar cheese adds a touch of indulgence. Stir it in at the end for a silky finish, or sprinkle it on top when serving for a little extra flair.

If you have a large stockpot or Dutch oven, you’re already set with the only equipment you’ll need for this recipe.

How to Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Creating this comforting soup is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, sauté diced onions until they’re soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. This step ensures the base of your soup is packed with flavor.

Next, add peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot. Pour in chicken broth until the potatoes are just covered, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook until they’re fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash a few pieces directly in the pot. This helps thicken the soup without the need for extra flour or cornstarch.

Stir the cooked ground beef back into the pot, then pour in heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Your soup is ready to serve!

Storage Options

This soup is just as delightful the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

For leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

If you’d like to freeze it, skip adding the cheese until after reheating. Cream-based soups can sometimes develop a slightly grainy texture when frozen, but this one holds up well with proper reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies like carrots, celery, or corn to boost the nutritional value.
• For a spicy kick, stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
• Use plant-based ground beef and non-dairy cream to make it vegan-friendly.
• Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or freshly chopped chives for an extra touch of flavor.

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is truly a recipe you can make your own. With its simple ingredients and foolproof steps, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. So grab a spoon and dig in—you won’t regret it!

Print