There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, creating an inviting meal perfect for any chilly evening. As you spoon the creamy soup into your bowl, you’ll find satisfaction in every bite, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Why We Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup recipe stands out because it effortlessly combines flavors and textures that appeal to everyone. The savory ground beef provides depth, while the creamy, cheesy base brings a level of indulgence that transforms a simple soup into a comforting feast. Moreover, it is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can make a large pot, allowing for leftovers that are just as delicious the next day. The blend of ingredients also means it can be a one-pot meal—less cleanup and more time to enjoy with your loved ones.
Ingredients about Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in bringing vibrant flavors to the dish. Gather these components before you start cooking:
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Directions
Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps. Here’s how you can create this bowl of comfort at home:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. The oil will provide a nice base for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté the chopped onions in the heated oil until they soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step helps build the flavor foundation of the soup.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Garlic adds an aromatic flavor that enhances the soup’s overall taste.
- Next, incorporate the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Toss in the diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. The potatoes will absorb the flavors and add heartiness to your soup. Stir everything together before pouring in the beef broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After simmering, stir in the heavy cream. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture. Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it melts and becomes smooth.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. This final touch helps everything come together for a deliciously creamy bowl of soup.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar and chopped green onions if desired. The garnish adds a pop of color and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
When serving your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, you can consider adding some lovely toppings or sides to enhance the experience. A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top not only looks appealing but also delivers a satisfying cheesy flavor. If you enjoy a bit of freshness, adding chopped green onions provides a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
You can serve the soup alongside crusty bread, perfect for dipping. A simple green salad could also balance the richness of the soup nicely. This meal is hearty enough to stand on its own, but these accompaniments can elevate your dining experience further, making it a well-rounded meal.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy and work great for this soup as they break down and thicken the broth. Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and hold their shape better, adding texture.
- Adjust the thickness: If you find the soup too thick, feel free to add more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, for a thicker soup, let it simmer longer without the lid.
- Mix cheeses: For extra depth of flavor, try mixing different types of cheese. A combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack can make the soup even more delicious.
- Add veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them in with the onions.
- Make it spicier: If you like a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.
How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is simple. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It should keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above.
Variation of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
While the classic version of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some tasty variations to try:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or mushrooms. This keeps the soup hearty while making it meat-free. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Loaded Cheese Style: Add in crispy bacon bits (if permissible) or even chopped cooked chicken for that extra protein and flavor. Topping with jalapeños, sour cream, and chives can also give it a loaded potato feel.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Spice things up by adding black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Top with fresh cilantro and avocado for a flavorful variation that brings the taste of the Southwest to your bowl.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy version that satisfies heat lovers.
FAQ
What Makes Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Special?
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is special because it combines comforting ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese into a warm, hearty dish. It’s quick to prepare and brings everyone together around the table, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Soup?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is the classic option, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Mixing different cheeses can enhance the creaminess and taste.
How Long Does Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Last?
The soup lasts in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored properly. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to let it cool before storing it in airtight containers.
Can I Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker! Simply brown the beef and onions on the stovetop, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding cheese and cream toward the end of cooking.
Is There a Gluten-Free Version of This Soup?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, ensure you use gluten-free beef broth and double-check the cheese for gluten-containing ingredients. Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them a perfect base for this recipe.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onions in the heated oil until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Incorporate the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- If there's excess fat, drain it off.
Cooking
- Toss in the diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- After simmering, stir in the heavy cream.
- Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it melts and becomes smooth.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar and chopped green onions if desired.
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