There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup to chase away the chill on a cold evening. The creamy broth, loaded with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and ooey-gooey cheese, is comfort food at its finest. Every spoonful is a burst of flavors that feels like a hug in a bowl.

This recipe became a family favorite during one particularly frosty winter when I was looking for something hearty, budget-friendly, and irresistibly delicious. It’s now on constant rotation whenever we need an easy one-pot meal that satisfies everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this creamy, cheesy, and downright dreamy soup. It’s everything you could want in a comfort food dish – and more.

First, this soup is incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of pantry staples and simple prep steps. You can have dinner on the table in less than an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The combination of cheesy goodness and savory ground beef is one that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. My kids practically lick their bowls clean every time!

Not to mention, this recipe is kind to your wallet. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and shredded cheese, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or customizing to suit your taste. Add extra veggies, switch up the cheese, or adjust the spices – this soup can handle it all. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it tick.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering rich flavor and hearty texture.

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this recipe. It provides the savory base and pairs beautifully with the creamy broth. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for their creamy texture when cooked, but Yukon Golds or even red potatoes work well if you prefer a firmer bite.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts perfectly into the soup, creating that rich and cheesy goodness. Feel free to experiment with blends like Colby-Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of extra flair.
Broth: A mix of chicken broth and milk gives the soup its creamy base. For an even richer flavor, swap in half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream.
Veggies: Onions and carrots add a subtle sweetness and balance the savory elements of the soup. You can add celery or frozen peas for extra veggies if desired.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, paprika, and thyme creates a flavorful base. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste – they make all the difference.

How To Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Making this soup is as easy as it is satisfying. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling pot of cheesy deliciousness ready to enjoy.

Cook the Ground Beef
Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté 1 diced onion and 2 diced carrots until softened, about 5 minutes. The onions should be translucent, and the carrots slightly tender.
Add the Potatoes and Broth
Stir in 4 cups of peeled and cubed potatoes along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Create the Creamy Base
Whisk together 2 cups of milk and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour in a small bowl. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. This will thicken the broth slightly.
Add the Cheese and Beef
Lower the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir until everything is combined and heated through.
Season to Taste
Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Storage Options

This soup is as convenient as it is delicious, with easy storage and reheating options that make it perfect for leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The soup thickens as it cools, so you may want to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
Freezer: While the potatoes may slightly alter in texture after freezing, this soup can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.
Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is one of its best features. Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe:

Add More Veggies: Stir in frozen corn, peas, or spinach at the end of cooking for added nutrients and color.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that complements the cheese beautifully.
Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
Go Gluten-Free: Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener for a celiac-friendly version.
Lighter Version: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk and use reduced-fat cheese to make the soup a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a true winner in every sense. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a cozy meal to savor, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!