Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Family Favorite

In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. From the detailed recipe to helpful tips and tricks, storage suggestions, and more, this guide will ensure your soup is a hit with the whole family. We’ll also cover variations to make it your own and answer common questions in an FAQ section. Ready to get cooking?

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Hearty and filling: Packed with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, this soup makes a complete meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
Comfort food at its best: Creamy, cheesy, and savory—perfect for when you’re craving something cozy and comforting.

Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible to any home cook.
Perfect for leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or to enjoy throughout the week.
Kid-friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it a hit with kids, plus it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is for anyone who loves hearty comfort food. Whether you’re a busy parent in need of a quick weeknight meal or someone who enjoys prepping meals ahead of time, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s great for fans of cheeseburgers, mashed potatoes, or creamy casseroles—all the flavors combine in one easy dish!

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need for this rich and satisfying soup:

1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef provides a savory base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds depth of flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic sweetness.

4 cups chicken or beef broth: Chicken broth adds richness; beef broth gives a heartier flavor.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, though you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
1 ½ cups milk: Provides creaminess. Whole milk works best for a richer soup.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and thickness.
2 tbsp flour: Thickens the soup.
1 tbsp butter: Used for sautéing onions and garlic.
½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
½ tsp dried thyme: Enhances the savory flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste.

Optional Toppings and Add-Ins:

Green onions
Bacon crumbles (optional for a no-pork version)
Extra cheese
Hot sauce

Substitutions and Variations

Vegetarian: Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
Dairy-free: Use unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cheese/sour cream.
Gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour.
Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces (5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
Remove the beef with a slotted spoon, leaving 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth

Add diced potatoes and cooked beef back to the pot.
Pour in the broth, making sure the potatoes are submerged. Stir in paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

4. Make the Creamy Base

Whisk together milk and flour in a small bowl until smooth.
Slowly pour the milk mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.

5. Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream

Stir in the cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with green onions, extra cheese, or hot sauce.
Serve with crusty bread, rolls, or crackers.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the cheesy broth.
Garlic bread: Adds extra flavor.
Salad: A light spinach salad can balance the richness of the soup.
Pickles: A tangy contrast to the cheesy flavor.

Helpful Tips

Use starchy potatoes for the best texture.
Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Gradually thicken the soup to achieve your desired consistency.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding broth or milk to thin if needed.
Microwave: Heat in 2-3 minute intervals, stirring halfway through.

Recipe Variations

Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add crumbled bacon.
Spicy Hamburger Soup: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Loaded Potato Soup: Top with cheese, sour cream, and bacon (omit for pork-free).
Vegetable-packed Soup: Add peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQ

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well and can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely. Just be sure to let it cool before freezing.

What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but feel free to mix in other cheeses for added creaminess.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.

Enjoy this delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup—perfect for cozy meals!