creamy potato and hamburger soup​

Introduction

Looking for a warm, hearty meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare? This Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is the answer! Packed with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy broth bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping.

In this article, we’ll dive into what makes this recipe so amazing, explore its key ingredients, and walk you through each step with practical tips for perfect results. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this soup is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup

This soup isn’t just another recipe—it’s a lifesaver on busy days and a cozy treat for cold evenings. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Simple to Make: With minimal prep and basic ingredients, it’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable staples like potatoes, ground beef, and pantry essentials.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the rich, creamy flavors.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt for dietary needs or to use whatever you have on hand.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean without compromising on flavor.

If you’re after a recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious, this creamy potato and hamburger soup is just the thing!

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Before jumping into the recipe, let’s break down the key ingredients and why they’re essential. Plus, we’ll suggest substitutions to make the dish suit your pantry or dietary needs.

1. Ground Beef

• Purpose: Adds a savory, meaty base that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option; crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Explore more ground beef recipes like the Deep-Fried Hamburger for creative dinner ideas.

2. Potatoes

• Purpose: The star ingredient, providing texture and heartiness. Russet potatoes are best for their starchiness, but Yukon Golds work for a creamier consistency.
• Substitutions: Sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a unique flavor twist.

3. Onion and Garlic

• Purpose: Enhance the soup’s depth with aromatic, savory flavors.
• Substitutions: Shallots for a milder taste or onion powder/garlic powder in a pinch.

4. Chicken or Vegetable Broth

• Purpose: Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
• Substitutions: Use water with bouillon cubes or homemade stock.

5. Milk or Cream

• Purpose: Adds richness and creaminess to the broth.
• Substitutions: Unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream for dairy-free alternatives.

6. Cheddar Cheese

• Purpose: Adds a cheesy, indulgent touch.
• Substitutions: Any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or a plant-based cheese for a vegan option.

7. Vegetables (Optional)

• Carrots and Celery: For added nutrition and flavor.
• Corn or Peas: Add a touch of sweetness and color.

Recipe Details

• Serving Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (cook)
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes total
• Calories: Approx. 320 calories per serving

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make creamy potato and hamburger soup. Feel free to print this checklist for easy shopping!

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 3–4 medium potatoes)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer soup)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for added depth)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. A heavier pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.
2. Add the ground beef to the hot pot. Break it into smaller crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
3. Cook the beef until it’s completely browned, with no pink remaining. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
   • Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the beef to steam instead of brown.
4. Once browned, carefully drain the excess fat. Set the cooked beef aside in a bowl. Wipe the pot clean if necessary, but leaving a bit of the grease can add flavor to the sautéed vegetables.

Sauté the Aromatics

1. Using the same pot, add butter and let it melt over medium heat. This adds richness to the soup and prevents sticking.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn. Garlic can become bitter if overcooked, so watch closely.
   • Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of salt while sautéing the onions. This helps draw out their natural sweetness.

Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes, along with any optional vegetables such as carrots or celery, directly into the pot with the onions and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. The liquid should just cover the vegetables—if not, add a little more broth or water.
3. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Tip: Cover the pot with a lid to speed up the boiling process, but keep an eye on it to prevent boiling over.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Test the potatoes with a fork—when they’re tender enough to easily pierce, they’re ready.

Thicken the Soup

1. While the potatoes cook, make a slurry to thicken the soup. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of flour with a few tablespoons of hot broth from the pot. Whisk until smooth and lump-free.
   • Why this works: The slurry prevents clumping and ensures a silky texture when added to the soup.
2. Slowly pour the slurry back into the pot while stirring constantly. This helps the flour distribute evenly and prevents lumps.
3. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the soup starts to thicken. You’ll notice the broth taking on a slightly creamy texture.

Add the Creamy Elements

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the dairy from curdling.
2. Stir in the milk (or cream), followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Add them slowly to ensure they incorporate smoothly.
   • Tip for cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
3. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or parsley.
   • Tip: If the soup tastes flat, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can brighten the flavors.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, chopped parsley, or croutons for added flair.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!

Variations

Make this recipe your own with these creative twists:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth.
• Lighter Option: Use low-fat milk and lean ground turkey for a healthier take.
• Loaded Soup: Top with crumbled tortilla chips, diced avocado, or crispy onions for extra texture.

Looking for vegetarian-friendly soups? Try this hearty Spinach and Mushroom Soup to keep things light and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread, garlic toast, or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth.
• As a Side: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• On Its Own: It’s hearty enough to enjoy as a standalone meal!

For more inspiration, check out this delicious Chicken Tortellini Alfredo to complement your soup night.

Tips for the Best Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

• Russet potatoes: These are starchy and break down slightly during cooking, helping to thicken the soup naturally.
• Yukon Golds: Creamier and hold their shape better, ideal if you prefer chunks of potato in every bite.
• Avoid waxy potatoes: Red or fingerling potatoes are less starchy and can result in a thinner consistency.

2. Season as You Go

Layering flavors is key to a delicious soup. Season each layer of ingredients as you cook:

• Lightly salt the ground beef during browning.
• Add a pinch of salt while sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance their natural flavors.
• Taste the soup at the end and adjust the seasoning based on your preferences.

3. Avoid Curdling

When adding dairy (milk, cream, or cheese), follow these steps to avoid curdling:

• Use room-temperature dairy if possible. Cold milk added to a hot soup can cause curdling.
• Add dairy at a lower heat (medium-low) and stir constantly.
• Opt for full-fat dairy, as it’s less prone to curdling than skim or low-fat varieties.

4. Enhance the Texture

• For a thicker soup: Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the slurry.
• For a smoother soup: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.

5. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a creamier consistency.
• If using frozen vegetables (like peas or corn), add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

6. Garnish Like a Pro

• Cheese lovers: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top just before serving for an extra melty layer.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or even a pinch of dried thyme add a pop of color and flavor.
• Crunchy toppings: Croutons or crushed tortilla chips add a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

7. Make Ahead and Store

• Meal prep: This soup reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing tips: If you plan to freeze the soup, omit the dairy during the cooking process. Add milk or cream after reheating to avoid separation.

8. Experiment with Add-Ins

• • Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra vegetable boost.
  • Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for an even heartier meal.

Benefits of This Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup

• Ease of Preparation: One pot, simple steps, and common ingredients make this recipe stress-free.
• Crowd Appeal: The creamy, hearty flavors are universally loved.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

What Is Hamburger Soup Made Of?

Main Ingredients in Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is a hearty and versatile dish made with simple ingredients:

• Ground beef: The base of the soup, cooked until browned and seasoned.
• Vegetables: Common choices include diced carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and bell peppers.
• Tomato base: Often made with canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, or tomato sauce for a rich flavor.
• Broth: Beef broth or stock gives the soup its savory liquid base.
• Seasonings: Garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper are typical additions.

Optional Additions

• Frozen peas, green beans, or corn for extra vegetables.
• Pasta or rice to make it more filling.
• Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for enhanced depth of flavor.

What Is Potato Soup Made Of?

Essential Ingredients in Potato Soup
Potato soup is a creamy and comforting dish that typically includes:

• Potatoes: Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes are commonly used.
• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base of the soup.
• Milk or Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
• Onions and Garlic: For a flavor boost.
• Butter: Often used for sautéing and added richness.
• Flour or Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent.

Optional Additions

• Cheese: Cheddar, Parmesan, or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Bacon or turkey crumbles for a smoky flavor.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives as garnish.

What Meat Goes Well with Potato Soup?

Best Meats to Pair with Potato Soup
Potato soup pairs well with these meats for added protein and flavor:

• Chicken: Shredded, grilled, or roasted chicken adds a lean, savory element.
• Turkey Sausage: A healthier alternative with a slightly smoky flavor.
• Beef or Ground Beef: Ideal for hearty versions of potato soup.
• Ham: Diced or shredded ham adds a salty, flavorful kick.
• Smoked Turkey: Offers a rich, smoky depth to complement the creaminess of the soup.

Should I Cook Potatoes Before Adding to Soup?

No, You Don’t Have to Cook Potatoes Separately
Most potato soup recipes call for adding raw potatoes directly to the soup. Here’s why:

• Cooking in the Soup: Potatoes absorb the flavors of the broth and seasonings as they cook.
• Time-Saving: Cooking potatoes directly in the soup saves time and reduces extra dishes.

Tips for Cooking Potatoes in Soup

• Cut Evenly: Dice potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
• Simmering Time: Allow 20-30 minutes of simmering for potatoes to become tender.
• Type of Potato: Use starchy potatoes like Russet for a creamier texture or waxy potatoes like Yukon gold for a firmer consistency.

Conclusion

This Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly night or looking for an easy crowd-pleaser, this soup checks all the boxes. Try it today and let its rich, creamy flavors win you over. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments or tag us on social media!