There’s nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup to comfort your soul on a chilly evening. The creamy broth, tender potatoes, and flavorful ground beef create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family.

I discovered this recipe on a whim during a snowy weekend, looking for something quick yet hearty to fill us up. With a few pantry staples and some ground beef from the freezer, this soup became an instant favorite – one we now turn to for cozy weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike. [IMAGE]

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can bring it to your table tonight.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup has everything you need for a crowd-pleasing dish, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a single pot and less than an hour from start to finish. Perfect for those nights when you don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen.

Next, this soup is budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and basic seasonings keeps costs low, making it ideal for feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. You can customize the recipe with additional veggies, spices, or even swap the protein to suit your preferences.

Finally, this soup has that wow factor – the kind that has everyone reaching for seconds. The creamy, savory broth paired with tender chunks of potato and perfectly seasoned hamburger is nothing short of irresistible.

Ready to create a cozy masterpiece? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef (85% lean works well) for a rich yet not overly greasy flavor. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup. Their starchy texture helps thicken the broth while staying tender and creamy.
Onions & garlic: These aromatic ingredients lay the flavor foundation. Dice the onions finely and mince the garlic for even distribution.
Chicken or beef broth: A high-quality broth makes a big difference in the soup’s depth of flavor. Use beef broth for a more robust taste or chicken broth for a milder option.
Heavy cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the soup. For a lighter alternative, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk.
Cheddar cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar stirred in at the end elevates the soup with a savory, cheesy note. Optional, but highly recommended!

Special equipment: You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to prepare the soup, along with a sturdy ladle for serving.

How to Make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Creating this comforting soup is straightforward and satisfying. Let’s walk through the process step-by-step.

Start with the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté diced onions until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the base: Return the beef to the pot, then add diced potatoes, broth, and seasonings (such as salt, pepper, and thyme). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Add creaminess: Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If you want a thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot.
Optional cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a rich, cheesy flavor. Let the soup sit for a couple of minutes to thicken before serving.

In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious pot of creamy, hearty soup ready to enjoy. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the consistency.
Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating tip: Avoid boiling the soup when reheating, as this can cause the cream to separate. Gentle heat is key!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or corn for added texture and nutrition. Spinach or kale stirred in at the end adds a vibrant touch.
Switch up the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can replace ground beef for a new flavor profile.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Smoked paprika or cumin can also lend a unique depth.
Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a milk alternative like almond milk. Reduce cheese or skip it entirely for a less indulgent version.
Cheesy twist: Use different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a distinctive, gourmet touch.

Experimenting with these variations ensures this soup never gets old, no matter how often it graces your table.

With its cozy flavors, creamy texture, and endless adaptability, Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction every time.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy this classic dish? Let us know in the comments below!