Introduction

As the temperature drops and evenings grow colder, nothing satisfies quite like a steaming bowl of rich, hearty soup. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup combines all the beloved elements of comfort food into one delicious dish, merging the satisfying flavors of a classic hamburger with the creamy indulgence of potato soup. With its perfect balance of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and velvety cheese sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with homestyle simplicity.

What sets this soup apart is its remarkable ability to transform basic pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of beef broth and milk creates a luxurious base, while the melted cheddar adds depth and richness that elevates the humble potato to new heights. Unlike many complicated soup recipes, this version comes together in one pot with minimal prep work, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something both nourishing and indulgent. The recipe’s versatility also allows for easy customization – add extra vegetables for nutrition, spice it up with hot sauce, or swap cheeses to create your perfect version.

Recipe: Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Ingredients

Main Components:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 medium potatoes)
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Optional Garnishes:

• Crumbled cooked bacon
• Sliced green onions
• Additional shredded cheese
• Sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns.
2. Once the beef is nearly cooked through (about 5 minutes), add diced onions and continue cooking until onions are translucent and beef is fully browned.
3. Drain excess grease if necessary, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

1. Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
4. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Once potatoes are cooked, reduce heat to low.
2. Gradually stir in milk, allowing it to warm through without boiling.
3. Add shredded cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated.
4. For a thicker soup, mash some potatoes against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender briefly.

Step 4: Adjust and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Let soup rest for 5 minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld.
3. Ladle into bowls and garnish with preferred toppings.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, use a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Colby Jack
• Add 1/2 cup of diced carrots or celery with the onions for more vegetables
• If soup is too thick, thin with additional broth or milk
• For a smokier flavor, substitute 1/2 lb ground beef with ground sausage
• Leftovers will thicken when refrigerated – thin with milk when reheating

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup represents the very best of comfort food – simple enough for everyday meals yet special enough to serve to company. Its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors make it far more than the sum of its parts, transforming basic ingredients into a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. The recipe’s flexibility ensures it can adapt to whatever you have on hand, while its foolproof method guarantees delicious results every time.

What makes this soup truly stand out is its universal appeal. Children love its familiar cheeseburger flavors, while adults appreciate its heartiness and depth. It’s equally appropriate for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or as a warming lunch on cold weekends. The leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

More than just a recipe, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a culinary hug – the kind of meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories around the dinner table. Its comforting qualities extend beyond mere nourishment, offering warmth and satisfaction that lingers long after the last spoonful. Once you try this version, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your soup repertoire, passed down through generations as one of those special dishes that always tastes like home.