This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup brings a hearty bowl of comfort to your table, making it an ideal choice for chilly days or when youâre craving something warm and satisfying. Combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy base, this soup is as nourishing as it is filling. Itâs a one-pot wonder thatâs simple to prepare and offers a blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy the entire family. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground hamburger (ground beef)
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, green onions
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to release the aroma.
Step 2:
Add the ground hamburger to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring to coat evenly. This will help thicken the soup as it cooks. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 4:
Pour in the beef broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15â20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and milk, gradually bringing the mixture back to a gentle simmer.
Step 6:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly to melt and blend the cheese smoothly into the soup.
Step 7:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If itâs too thick, add a little more milk or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Step 8:
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and optional toppings like crumbled bacon or green onions for added flavor.
Variations
- Bacon Twist: Add cooked, crumbled bacon into the soup along with the hamburger for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Include carrots and celery in the initial sauté step for extra nutrition and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a spicy variation.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat or gouda for a smoky taste.
Cooking Note:
- Consistency Adjustment: If the soup is too thick, add additional milk or broth gradually until it reaches your preferred consistency. For a thicker texture, add more flour or use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Reheating Tip: This soup thickens as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating leftovers.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every drop of creamy soup.
- As a Starter: This soup can be served as a starter or paired with a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For Lunch or Dinner: Ideal as a lunch option or as a heartwarming dinner, perfect for chilly evenings.
Tips:
- Cut Potatoes Uniformly: For even cooking, try to cut the potatoes into similar-sized cubes.
- Cheese Tip: Add the cheese gradually, stirring well after each addition to prevent clumping.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more milk to loosen the consistency if needed.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance and reheated. It thickens as it cools, so you may need to add a little more milk or broth when reheating.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Itâs best enjoyed fresh, as potatoes can become grainy after freezing. However, you can freeze it if youâre okay with a slight texture change. Just make sure to let it cool fully before freezing.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used as alternatives to beef.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk. Use dairy-free cheese, or omit it altogether for a non-dairy option.
Q: Whatâs the best type of potato to use?
A: Russet potatoes work well due to their starchy nature, which helps thicken the soup. Yukon Gold is also a great choice for a creamier texture.
Conclusion
This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup combines the heartiness of ground beef with the comforting smoothness of potatoes and a creamy base, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. With minimal prep and cook time, itâs the perfect one-pot meal that brings warmth to any table. Customize it with your favorite toppings or extra vegetables, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Whether for a quick lunch or an evening meal, this recipe will undoubtedly be a favorite for its ease and deliciousness.