There’s nothing like a warm, creamy bowl of potato cheeseburger soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. This version of the classic combines the best of both worlds—hearty potatoes, savory ground beef, and a cheesy, creamy broth that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this soup is both filling and delicious, and it’s so easy to make. With tender vegetables, melted Velveeta cheese, and cream cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
For the Soup
To create the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory, these ingredients are essential for making this dish a standout.
- Ground beef (cooked and drained): The ground beef is the star of the soup, providing a rich and savory flavor that complements the creamy base.
- Ground sausage (cooked and drained): The addition of sausage enhances the soup with a slightly spiced and savory taste, adding depth of flavor.
- Peeled and diced potatoes: Potatoes are the heart of this soup, creating a thick, hearty texture that makes the soup filling and satisfying.
- Peeled and diced carrots: Carrots bring a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, balancing the richness of the meat and cheeses.
- Chopped celery: Celery offers a refreshing crunch and lightness that pairs well with the creamy broth.
- Chopped onion: Onions provide a savory and aromatic base for the soup, enhancing its flavor profile.
- Beef broth: Beef broth serves as the foundation of the soup’s liquid, infusing it with a deep, savory taste.
- Stick of butter: Butter adds richness to the soup, making it creamy and luxurious.
- Whole milk: Whole milk creates the creamy texture that makes this soup so indulgent.
- Cream cheese: Cream cheese gives the soup a velvety texture, making it incredibly smooth and rich.
- Velveeta cheese: Velveeta cheese is perfect for melting into the soup, creating a smooth, gooey texture that coats the vegetables and meat beautifully.
- Salt: Salt is essential for bringing out the flavor in the soup and seasoning the broth to perfection.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat to the soup, enhancing the other flavors.
- Garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a savory, garlicky flavor to complement the richness of the other ingredients.
Instructions
Step 1: Partially Boil the Vegetables
Start by placing the peeled and diced potatoes, carrots, chopped celery, and onions into a large pot. Add enough water to cover the vegetables, and bring it to a boil. Let the vegetables cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender but still firm. You want them partially cooked since they will continue cooking in the soup later. Once the vegetables are partially boiled, drain them and set them aside.
Step 2: Add Broth, Milk, and Butter
After draining the vegetables, return them to the pot. Add the beef broth and whole milk, followed by the stick of butter. Stir everything to combine. The butter will melt into the liquid, creating a rich, creamy base for the soup. Add your seasonings, including salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Stir again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Cooked Meats and Cheeses
Next, stir in the cooked ground beef and ground sausage. These meats will give the soup its savory depth and richness. Once the meats are mixed in, add the block of cream cheese and Velveeta cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheeses start to melt, blending into the soup and creating a smooth, creamy consistency. This is where the magic happens—the cheeses will thicken the soup and give it that rich, indulgent texture we all love.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook on Low
Once the cheese has melted into the soup, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time lets the potatoes soften further and absorb the flavors of the broth and seasonings. As the soup cooks, the cheeses will continue to thicken the broth, making it even creamier.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the potatoes are fully cooked and the soup has thickened to your liking, it’s time to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to get a good amount of the meat, vegetables, and creamy broth in each serving. This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness of this homemade potato cheeseburger soup, perfect for any meal!
Helpful Tips
Cooking Tips
- Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, you can add extra broth or milk to thin it out. If you prefer a thicker soup, cook it a little longer with the lid off to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will only improve as it sits. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, you may need to stir in some extra milk to restore its creamy texture.
Flavor Variations
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to include more vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers to make the soup even heartier and more colorful.
- Spicy Version: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the soup to give it a spicy kick.
- Use Different Meats: You can experiment with other types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken sausage, if you want to lighten up the soup while still keeping it flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
- Bread: Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread will soak up the creamy broth and add a satisfying crunch.
- Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup without cream cheese?
If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute it with additional Velveeta cheese or a combination of cheddar and cream. This will still give you that creamy texture, though the flavor may be slightly different.
Can I use a slow cooker for this soup?
Yes! To make the soup in a slow cooker, follow the initial steps of cooking the vegetables and meats, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the cream cheese and Velveeta in the last 30 minutes to allow them to melt properly.
How can I make the soup spicier?
For a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or some diced green chilies along with the seasonings. This will give your soup a zesty, spicy kick that complements the creamy texture and rich flavors.
Conclusion
This Homemade Potato Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful twist on the traditional cheeseburger, offering all the creamy, cheesy goodness. Packed with hearty potatoes, savory meats, and melted cheeses, this soup is perfect for a comforting meal. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner or serve it to guests, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Serve it with a side of bread, a fresh salad, and enjoy a warm, indulgent meal that’s both filling and full of flavor. This soup is a wonderful addition to any meal plan and will quickly become a family favorite!