Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Delight
When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup to bring comfort to your table. This creamy, flavorful soup is packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich, melted cheese—making it a perfect meal for cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of cheese and potatoes creates a velvety, comforting texture.
- Hearty & Satisfying: With ground beef and potatoes, it’s a full meal in a bowl.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening, if needed)
- Chopped green onions or crispy bacon (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked ground beef, milk, and heavy cream. Let it warm through without boiling.
5. Melt the Cheese
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
6. Adjust Thickness (If Needed)
If the soup needs thickening, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in, cooking for a few more minutes until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, or extra cheese if desired.