Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth, tender potatoes, and hearty bites of ground beef make this soup a family favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

I discovered this recipe during a snowstorm when all I had were pantry staples and a pound of ground beef. It quickly became a go-to for its cozy flavors and effortless preparation. Ready to fall in love with a soup that warms you inside and out? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

This soup is about to become a staple in your household – and for good reason!

First off, it’s quick and fuss-free. With minimal chopping and one pot, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty without the hassle.

Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also uses simple, everyday ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and broth. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen!

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. Whether you want to make it extra creamy, add some vegetables, or swap the protein, this soup adapts beautifully to your taste and dietary preferences.

Finally, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser. From picky kids to hungry adults, everyone will be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

So, let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup so special!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup lies in its simplicity. Let’s break down the key ingredients and why they matter:

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 or lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and richness. Browned to perfection, it gives the soup its hearty base. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken work too!
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my favorite for this recipe. Their starchiness creates a naturally creamy texture. If you prefer firmer pieces, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great choice.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples elevate the flavor of the soup, making every spoonful irresistible. Don’t skip them!
• Chicken or Beef Broth: The broth forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Use low-sodium options to control the salt, and feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! Heavy cream adds richness and smoothness to the soup. For a lighter version, half-and-half or milk can work, but the texture will be less luxurious.
• Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Shredded cheddar melts beautifully into the soup, giving it a cheesy, comforting vibe. Highly recommended if you love extra indulgence!

Special Equipment

A large soup pot or Dutch oven works best for this recipe. It ensures even cooking and gives you plenty of room to stir everything together.

How to Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making this delicious soup is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:

1. Brown the Beef
   Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Once it’s fully cooked, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the drippings in the pot for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them in the beef drippings until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step builds a savory base for the soup.
3. Cook the Potatoes
   Add the diced potatoes, along with your choice of broth, to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the potatoes cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Make It Creamy
   Stir in the heavy cream, cooked ground beef, and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or crumbled bacon. Serve hot with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!

This entire process takes about 30-40 minutes, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Storage Options

One of the great things about this soup is how well it stores and reheats.

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
• Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Note: The cream can sometimes separate when reheated, but a quick stir will bring it back together.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe is part of what makes it so beloved. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add Veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrients and color. Frozen peas are a great last-minute addition too!
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, paprika, or cayenne for a little heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.

Experiment with these ideas or create your own spin – the possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a bowl of love that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold night or looking for an easy meal that satisfies, this soup delivers every time.

What’s your favorite way to customize it? Let me know in the comments below!

Print