Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a dish to feed a crowd, or a cozy meal to warm up with on a chilly day, this recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with rich flavors from ground beef, cheddar cheese, and creamy potatoes, this soup is a satisfying, one-pot wonder that everyone in the family will love.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
- Rich & Creamy: A luxurious texture that’s indulgent without being overly heavy.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
- Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for leftovers and freezer-friendly.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or flour) mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
1. Cook the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. If using lean meat, add a little olive oil if needed. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, melt the butter and add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes & Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy
Pour in the milk, heavy cream, and optional cream of cheddar soup. Stir well. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken. Simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cheese & Beef
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Return the cooked beef to the pot and mix well.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey instead of beef and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients (especially broth and cream of cheddar soup) are gluten-free and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to restore the consistency.
- Bread: Crusty baguette, garlic bread, or homemade biscuits.
- Salad: A simple side salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Beverages: A crisp apple cider, white wine (like Chardonnay), or a light beer complement the cheesy goodness.
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except dairy and cheese to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in dairy and cheese at the end until melted.
2. What’s the best type of potato to use?
Russet potatoes give a starchier, creamier texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better and provide a buttery flavor.
3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect melting. For best results, shred cheese from a block.
4. How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the beef and use vegetable broth. You can also add mushrooms or lentils for heartiness.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe is sure to please.
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