Hamburger Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm, hearty soup simmering on the stove when the weather turns cold. I still remember the first time I made this Hamburger Potato Soup it was one of those chilly Alaskan evenings where staying in felt better than going out. I needed something easy, filling, and comforting. With just a few ingredients on hand ground beef, potatoes, and some broth I put together a pot of soup that ended up being a total hit. My family loved it so much, they asked for seconds (and thirds). Ever since, it’s become a go-to favorite that we make all year round, especially during the colder months.

This soup is thick, rich, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that warms your bones and fills your belly without a lot of effort. Whether you’re cooking for a big family or just want leftovers for the next day, this recipe hits the mark every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort in Every Bite
Hamburger Potato Soup is packed with cozy, home-style flavor. The combination of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and creamy broth is pure comfort food that soothes the soul.

2. Quick and Easy to Make
You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. This soup comes together with simple steps and cooks in one pot—perfect for busy nights.

3. Budget-Friendly and Filling
Using affordable staples like ground beef and potatoes, this recipe is easy on the wallet while still feeding a crowd.

4. Great for Leftovers
This soup tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or even freeze a portion for later.

5. Easily Customizable
Add your favorite vegetables, change up the seasonings, or make it creamy or dairy-free—the options are endless.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Let’s break down what you’ll need and what you can swap if you’re missing something:

Ground Beef – I use lean ground beef (85/15) because it’s flavorful without being too greasy. You can substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version, or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian spin.

Potatoes – Russet potatoes are my top pick because they get soft and help naturally thicken the soup. Yukon Golds work well too, and red potatoes will give a firmer texture. Any kind you have will work in a pinch.

Onion & Garlic – Essential for building a rich base of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder is an acceptable substitute—use about 1 teaspoon.

Carrots & Celery – These veggies bring natural sweetness and depth to the soup. No carrots or celery? No problem. You can skip them or replace with corn, green beans, or even frozen mixed vegetables.

Beef Broth – Gives the soup that deep, savory flavor. Chicken or vegetable broth works too, though the beef broth adds a heartier taste.

Milk or Cream – For that creamy texture, I prefer heavy cream or whole milk. Half-and-half works well too. For a non-dairy option, use oat milk or canned coconut milk—both add creaminess without overpowering the flavor.

Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness and a mild sharpness. You can use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese if needed.

Seasonings – Salt, pepper, dried thyme, and a bit of parsley add balance and brightness. Feel free to toss in paprika or red pepper flakes for a spicier twist.

How to Make Hamburger Potato Soup

Here’s the step-by-step guide to making the most delicious, creamy hamburger potato soup:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain off excess fat, then return the meat to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the beef broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk or cream and the shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Season to Taste
Add salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes, then serve hot.

These warm, crispy fritters packed with juicy peaches make a delightful dessert or a sweet side to your hearty soup. Delicious Fresh Peach Fritters.

Helpful Tips:

• Cut all your veggies and potatoes about the same size for even cooking.
• If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes right in the pot using a spoon or potato masher.
• Add the dairy after the soup has simmered to avoid curdling.

Additional Tips & Variations

Make it a Cheeseburger Soup – Add a splash of ketchup and mustard, and top with pickles or extra cheese for a fun twist.

Add Heat – Stir in a pinch of cayenne, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to kick things up.

Boost the Protein – Stir in canned beans like white beans or kidney beans for extra texture and nutrition.

Low-Carb Version – Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly option.

Storage & Reheating
Let leftovers cool, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

To freeze: Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

This hearty, stuffed bread pairs perfectly with soups, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy texture of your hamburger potato soup. The Ultimate Guide to Garbage Bread.

FAQs

Can I make hamburger potato soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have broth?
You can use water and bouillon cubes or powder. Just follow the package directions for proper ratio.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then add everything except the cream and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese 30 minutes before serving.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables are a quick and easy substitute. Add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

How do I thicken the soup more?
Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water.

Conclusion

Hamburger Potato Soup is one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: it’s easy, satisfying, affordable, and totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch, it never disappoints. It’s flexible enough to make your own and simple enough to become a regular part of your meal rotation.

Next time you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss dinner, give this hearty soup a try. You’ll be amazed at how something so easy can be so delicious—and chances are, it’ll become one of your family favorites too.

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