Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup has a magical way of turning a regular Tuesday into something special. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of savory beef and melty cheese. I remember the first time I made this cheesy ground beef potato soup for my family; the kids went wild for it, and my husband declared it a new favorite. It’s so easy to whip up, making it the perfect answer for busy weeknights when you crave something truly comforting. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible soup! It’s the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes:
- Unforgettable Flavor: The rich, savory notes of seasoned ground beef combined with tender potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese create a taste sensation you won’t forget.
- Quick & Easy Prep: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
- Family-Approved: This hearty dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples and affordable ground beef, this soup is a cost-effective way to feed a crowd.
- Versatile Comfort: Whether you’re craving a cheesy cheeseburger potato soup for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch, it always hits the spot.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this cheesy cheeseburger potato soup with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
- Satisfying & Filling: Packed with protein and hearty ingredients, it’s a truly satisfying meal that will keep you full.
Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this fantastic cheesy hamburger potato soup. You’ll need some basics for the hearty base and then the magic ingredients that make it oh-so-cheesy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for the best flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 small onion, diced – about 1 cup, adds a sweet base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory depth.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced – Yukon Golds or Russets work wonderfully, about 1-inch cubes.
- 4 cups chicken broth – low-sodium is great so you can control the salt.
- 1 cup milk – whole milk keeps it creamy and rich.
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, velvety texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar gives the best flavor; I always shred my own!
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
These cheesy hamburger potato soup ingredients come together to create a truly comforting meal.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Whipping up this delicious soup is easier than you think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this comforting, creamy dish.
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 small onion, diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma is already starting to build!
- Step 2: Add the 1 lb ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. This is where the hearty flavor begins. Drain off any excess grease to keep the soup from being too heavy.
- Step 3: Stir in the 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced, and the 4 cups chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You want them soft enough to eat easily.
- Step 4: Once the potatoes are tender, pour in the 1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything. Heat this mixture through gently, but be careful not to let it boil, as this can cause the dairy to curdle.
- Step 5: Gradually add the 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. This is the moment it truly transforms into that irresistible cheesy hamburger potato soup.
- Step 6: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the soup to thicken slightly. Following these cheesy hamburger potato soup instructions ensures a perfect result.
- Step 7: Ladle your hot Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup into bowls. Serve immediately and enjoy this wonderful comfort food. You’ve successfully learned how to make cheesy hamburger potato soup!
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
I’ve made this soup more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time. Follow these tips for the ultimate cheesy potato experience!
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your soup a little grainy. Shredding your own cheddar cheese from a block guarantees a smoother, creamier soup.
- Don’t Boil After Adding Dairy: Once you add the milk and heavy cream, keep the heat on low and just warm it through. Boiling can cause the dairy to separate or curdle, which is definitely not what we want in our cheesy hamburger potato soup.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving. You might need a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the flavors.
- Potatoes Matter: While most potatoes work, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds break down slightly and help thicken the soup naturally. For more information on potato types, you can check out Potato Goodness.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
The real secret to a perfect cheesy potato soup ground beef cheddar base is the quality of your cheese and not overcooking the dairy. Shredding sharp cheddar from a block and gently melting it into the warm, creamy broth creates that signature velvety texture.
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cheese and dairy, then cool and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the beef and potato mixture, then stir in the milk, cream, and cheese until melted. For more on food safety and storage, consult the FoodSafety.gov guidelines.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
A common pitfall is adding the dairy too quickly or at too high of a heat, leading to curdling. Another mistake is using pre-shredded cheese, which can result in a grainy texture. Simply follow the gentle heating and shredding your own cheese tips, and you won’t wonder ‘why is my hamburger potato soup not cheesy’!
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but I love to pair it with a few simple sides to make it even more special. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. For a truly satisfying meal, consider serving this cheesy beef and potato soup with a crusty bread for dipping, like a warm sourdough or a garlic baguette. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
You can also elevate it with some fun toppings! A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, fresh chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream really takes it to the next level. These additions make it feel like a special occasion, even on a weeknight. For more serving ideas, check out our contact us page for inspiration.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a delicious and filling meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this wonderful cheesy hamburger potato soup:
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 460
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Please remember that these cheesy hamburger potato soup calories and other values are estimates. Actual nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. For more details on nutritional calculations, you can visit MyFitnessPal.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for leftovers! Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious cheesy hamburger potato soup, let it cool completely before storing. This is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and ensure food safety. I like to portion it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It holds up wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. For more on meal prep, see our affiliate disclaimer.
For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling after reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
At its heart, cheesy hamburger potato soup is a hearty, comforting stew featuring tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy broth loaded with melted cheddar cheese. It’s essentially a deconstructed cheeseburger in soup form, packed with familiar flavors and textures that make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s designed to be a complete meal in a bowl!
What are some Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup variations?
There are tons of delicious cheesy hamburger potato soup variations you can try! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños with the onions. You can also swap out the cheddar for a mix of Monterey Jack and Colby for a different cheesy flavor profile. Some people even like to add a can of diced tomatoes for a little tang, or incorporate different vegetables like carrots or celery. For more recipe ideas, check out our homepage.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
While this is a hamburger potato soup, you can absolutely adapt it for a vegetarian diet! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil as usual. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or peas to bulk it up, or even use plant-based crumbles. The creamy, cheesy potato base will still be incredibly satisfying.
Why is my hamburger potato soup not cheesy enough?
If your soup isn’t as cheesy as you’d like, it might be the type of cheese or how you added it. Using a sharp, good-quality cheddar that you shred yourself from a block will give you the best melt and flavor. Make sure you’re adding the cheese gradually to the warm, but not boiling, soup, and stir until it’s fully melted. Sometimes, a little extra cheese stirred in at the end makes all the difference!
Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting and have found some delicious ways to switch things up! If you’re craving something a little different, give these variations a try for your cheesy hamburger potato soup.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Potato Chowder: For a little heat, add a diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic. A pinch of cayenne pepper stirred in with the ground beef will also give it a nice kick, turning it into a delightful cheeseburger potato chowder recipe.
- Smoky Bacon Cheddar Version: Cook a few strips of bacon until crispy, then crumble it. Use the bacon fat to sauté your aromatics, and stir in some smoked paprika with the ground beef. Top the finished soup with the crumbled bacon and extra cheddar for a smoky, savory twist.
- Creamy Vegetable Boost: Add a cup of frozen corn or peas during the last 10 minutes of simmering the potatoes. This adds extra color, texture, and nutrients, making it an even more hearty cheesy hamburger potato soup.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: For an even easier approach, brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic separately. Then, combine everything except the milk, cream, and cheese in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the dairy and cheese at the end until melted. For more about slow cooker cooking, you can read our about me page.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: 1 Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. It features seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy broth. Easy to make in one pot, it’s a family-friendly meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Pour in milk and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Heat through without boiling.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes for flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Ladle the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with desired toppings like extra cheese, bacon bits, or green onions.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Avoid boiling after adding the dairy to prevent curdling.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at different stages of cooking.
- Use good-quality cheddar cheese for the best creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 80mg