Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Save this recipe on:

When the weather turns chilly and I find myself craving something hearty and comforting, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is my go-to. It’s one of those meals that warms you from the inside out, filling the house with rich, savory aromas that make everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “What’s for dinner?” I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it delivers bold, satisfying flavors that make you feel like you’ve been cooking all day.

I came up with this soup on a lazy Sunday when I had leftover ground beef and a bag of potatoes on the counter. A quick glance in the fridge showed me some shredded cheese, and I thought, why not combine them all into a soup? The result was so delicious I had to jot it down. The cheesy base is creamy and comforting, the potatoes give it heart, and the beef adds that perfect savory bite. This soup quickly became a family favorite.

If you’re anything like me, you probably enjoy recipes that don’t require a trip to a gourmet store. This one uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have at home. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup fits the bill perfectly. For more comfort food inspiration, check out my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, indulge in the nostalgic warmth of Funeral Potatoes, or warm up with a bowl of Shipwreck Dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

This soup is all about simplicity and flavor. You don’t need fancy techniques or ingredients to pull it off. It’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. The ground beef adds richness while the potatoes bring bulk and texture. It’s also a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal. Plus, it’s easy to adjust to your taste or make in large batches for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or serving guests, this soup hits the spot every time.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, offering a rich, meaty flavor that anchors the whole dish. Choose lean or regular, depending on your preference.

Potatoes: A starchy variety like Yukon Gold or Russet works best. They provide body and make the soup hearty and filling.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a flavorful base and add depth to the soup.

Cheddar Cheese: The star of the cheesy goodness. Use sharp cheddar for the most flavor.

Milk or Cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and luscious. Adjust based on how rich you want it.

Chicken or Beef Broth: Adds depth and thins out the consistency just enough while contributing savory flavor.

Butter and Flour: Used to make a simple roux that thickens the soup perfectly.

Salt, Pepper, and Paprika: For seasoning and a touch of warmth and color.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning your ground beef in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until fully browned, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain most of the grease but leave just a little for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit of butter and toss in your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a roux. Cook for a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Simmer

Add diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in the Creamy Ingredients

Lower the heat and pour in your milk or cream. Add the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Return the beef to the pot and let everything meld together for a few minutes.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and paprika. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage if you want a lighter or spicier flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using meatless crumbles or cooked lentils. Try different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a unique twist. Adding veggies like corn, carrots, or even chopped spinach gives an extra boost of nutrition and color. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and use olive oil instead of butter.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a cozy dinner, serve it in bread bowls for a rustic presentation. And don’t forget to top with extra cheese, chives, or a dollop of sour cream to make each bowl extra special.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well—just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything except the cheese and milk to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Stir in the cheese and milk at the end until melted and smooth.

Is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup gluten-free?

It can be! Just use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How can I thicken Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup if it’s too thin?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally, or mash a few of the potatoes into the broth. You can also make a slurry with cornstarch and water to stir in at the end.

Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Allow it to cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers. When reheating, stir well and add a bit of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love warm, cheesy comfort food like this soup, you’ll definitely enjoy my Cheesy Cabbage Casserole and One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. These are cozy, rich dishes perfect for satisfying those comfort cravings.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. It’s perfect for your weeknight dinner ideas or fall comfort food collection. Share it with friends and family on social media, or bookmark it for your next cozy weekend meal. Sharing great food is the best part of cooking!

Save this recipe on: