Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup – A Hearty Comfort Food -

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There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. This creamy, comforting dish combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese to create a soup that’s both hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this soup lies in its rich, cheesy broth and perfectly cooked potatoes, giving you a satisfying spoonful every time. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can customize it with extra veggies, bacon, or spice to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Perfect for cold weather, game nights, or just when you need a comforting meal, this soup is about to become your new favorite. Ready to dive in? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Essential Ingredients

To make the perfect bowl of cheesy hamburger potato soup, you’ll need the following:

Ground beef (hamburger) – The base of the soup, adding rich, meaty flavor.
Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, as they hold their texture well in soup.
Cheese – A combination of cheddar and Velveeta creates the ultimate creamy, cheesy texture.
Milk and heavy cream – Adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
Broth – Chicken or beef broth gives the soup a flavorful foundation.
Vegetables – Onion, garlic, and carrots enhance the depth of flavor.
Butter and flour – Used to create a roux, thickening the soup.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of garlic powder bring everything together.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to take your soup to the next level? Try adding:

Bacon – Crispy bacon crumbles add a smoky, salty kick.
Jalapeños – If you like spice, diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will add heat.
Extra vegetables – Celery, bell peppers, or corn add a touch of sweetness and texture.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prep your ingredients:

Dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Shred the cheese (if using block cheese) for a smoother melt.
Chop the onions and garlic finely to blend into the soup’s base.

Step 2: Cooking the Hamburger Base

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until softened.

Step 3: Simmering the Soup

Once the ground beef is browned and the onions and garlic are fragrant, add the butter to the pot and let it melt.
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. This helps thicken the soup.
Slowly pour in the broth (chicken or beef), stirring to combine and prevent lumps.
Add the diced potatoes and carrots, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

This step allows all the flavors to blend beautifully while the potatoes absorb the rich broth.

Step 4: Adding the Cheese and Final Touches

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth melt.
Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, but do not let it boil.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to taste.
If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

At this point, the soup is rich, cheesy, and ready to serve!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

How to Make It Creamier

Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer texture.
Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender for extra creaminess while keeping some potato chunks intact.
Stirring in a bit of cream cheese can add an extra layer of creaminess.

Making It Healthier

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to cut down on fat.
Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
Opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower calories without sacrificing flavor.
Add more vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Version

Want to make this soup with minimal effort? The slow cooker is your best friend!

Brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
Add the potatoes, broth, and seasonings.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
In the last 30 minutes, stir in the cheese, milk, and cream until melted and smooth.

Instant Pot Method

Need a quicker version? Try making it in an Instant Pot:

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté Mode and brown the ground beef with onions.
Add the potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
Quick-release the pressure, then stir in the cheese, milk, and cream.

Spicy Version

Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Swap regular cheese for pepper jack to enhance the spice level.

What to Serve with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Best Bread Pairings

Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Garlic bread – Adds a buttery, garlicky touch.
Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits complement the heartiness of the soup.

Side Dishes to Complement the Soup

Fresh garden salad – A light, crisp contrast to the rich soup.
Roasted vegetables – Adds more nutrients and texture.
Grilled cheese sandwich – A classic comfort food pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For long-term storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if needed.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent separation.
Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for a gentle warm-up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preventing a Grainy Cheese Texture

Always add cheese slowly over low heat. High heat can cause it to become grainy.
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded (which contains anti-caking agents).

Avoiding Overcooked or Undercooked Potatoes

Cut potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
Simmer the soup gently—boiling can cause potatoes to break apart too quickly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty potatoes and savory ground beef. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, this soup is easy to customize and perfect for any occasion.

With the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, you’ll have a rich, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. So why not whip up a pot tonight and enjoy a bowl of warm, cheesy happiness?