A bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the definition of cozy comfort food. The rich, creamy base is packed with tender potatoes, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and layers of melted cheddar cheese. Each spoonful delivers a velvety smooth texture, complemented by the savory depth of flavors that make this soup irresistible. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or serving a family dinner, this dish brings warmth to every bite. What makes this soup even better is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste by adding crispy bacon, a hint of spice with jalapeños, or extra veggies for a nutrient boost. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. This soup is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to heat through, but avoid letting it boil.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. For extra flavor, garnish with more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Easy to Make – This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time. It requires minimal prep work and is ready in under an hour.
- One-Pot Wonder – No need for multiple dishes! Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich and Creamy – The combination of milk, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a thick, luxurious texture that’s irresistibly smooth.
- Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein-rich beef and hearty potatoes, this soup is a complete meal in itself.
- Customizable – Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap the beef for turkey, add more veggies, or spice it up with jalapeños!
The Origins of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
While soups have been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup takes inspiration from several classic comfort dishes. It combines elements of cheeseburger soup, a Midwestern favorite, with the traditional potato soup, which has long been a staple in American households.
Potato soup itself has deep roots in European cooking, where it was commonly made with simple, inexpensive ingredients such as potatoes, onions, and broth. Over time, as dairy became more accessible, the addition of cheese and cream transformed it into a richer, more indulgent dish. The introduction of ground beef into the mix likely came from the popularity of cheeseburgers, bringing a unique and satisfying twist to traditional potato soup.
How This Soup Stands Out
Unlike many other soups that rely solely on broth, this recipe has a thicker, chowder-like consistency. The starch from the potatoes, combined with the melted cheese and heavy cream, gives the soup a luscious, spoon-coating texture. The inclusion of ground beef adds depth and richness, making it heartier than a traditional potato soup.
Another standout feature of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is its layered flavors. The combination of sautéed onions and garlic with seasoned beef creates a savory base, while the broth infuses every bite with comforting warmth. As the cheese melts into the soup, it adds a creamy, tangy depth that enhances the overall taste.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Liking
One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to modify the recipe based on your personal preferences:
- Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Boost the Veggies – Stir in chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Swap the Protein – Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- Try Different Cheeses – While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a smoky cheese for a unique twist.
- Bacon Lover’s Upgrade – Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with This Soup
While this soup is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are some excellent options:
- Crusty Bread – A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping.
- Garlic Toast – Adds a buttery, garlicky crunch that complements the creamy soup.
- Green Salad – A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness.
- Cornbread – The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
- Grilled Cheese – For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing – Since this soup contains dairy, freezing can sometimes cause the texture to change. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cheese and cream until reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the dairy to separate.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish that is warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
With endless customization options and a taste that appeals to all ages, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Try it today and discover why it’s a favorite in so many households!