There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup to chase away the chill of a cold day. This creamy, cheesy soup is loaded with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food.

I discovered this recipe during a search for an easy weeknight dinner that would satisfy my family’s love for both burgers and potato-based dishes. The result? A rich, satisfying meal that has become a staple in our household. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Get ready to add a new family favorite to your recipe collection! Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is as comforting as it is delicious.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make. In less than an hour, you’ll have a piping hot pot of creamy, cheesy goodness that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short.

This soup is also wonderfully filling, making it an ideal main course. With hearty potatoes, protein-packed ground beef, and a cheesy broth, there’s no need for additional sides (though a crusty loaf of bread never hurts!).

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s super budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, and cheese, you can create a gourmet-tasting dish without breaking the bank.

Lastly, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. It’s truly a recipe that adapts to you!

Ingredients Notes

The key to a flavorful Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup lies in its humble yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one works together to create a symphony of taste and texture.

Ground beef is the star of the show. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15) to ensure a hearty, meaty flavor without excessive grease. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

The potatoes form the base of the soup, offering a creamy texture and mild flavor. Russet potatoes work best here, as they break down slightly during cooking, thickening the broth. If you prefer firmer chunks, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative.

For the cheesy element, shredded cheddar cheese is a must. Use a sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor or a mild one for a smoother taste. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shreds, so grab a block and your grater!

Milk and chicken broth create the rich, creamy base. Whole milk gives the soup its velvety texture, while chicken broth adds depth. If you want to make it even creamier, a splash of heavy cream works wonders.

Don’t forget the onions and garlic! These aromatics provide a savory foundation that enhances the overall flavor of the soup. Minced garlic and diced onions are sautéed alongside the beef for maximum impact.

Finally, a thickener like all-purpose flour or cornstarch is used to achieve the perfect consistency. It’s a small addition, but it makes all the difference in creating that luscious, spoon-coating texture.

How To Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Creating this hearty, delicious soup is easier than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by browning ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, sauté diced onions until they turn translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. These aromatics will infuse the soup with their rich, savory flavor.

Next, sprinkle in a few tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir well. This forms a roux, which will thicken the soup. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add your cubed potatoes and let them cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily pierces the cubes.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time. Allow the cheese to melt completely before adding the next handful. Be patient here – the slow incorporation ensures a smooth, creamy soup.

Finally, return the cooked ground beef to the pot, and let everything simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for a little extra flair. Total cooking time is around 40-50 minutes, making this soup a quick and rewarding meal.

Storage Options

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

For refrigeration, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Note that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy, but a splash of milk or cream can help restore its creaminess.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a new flavor profile.
Add veggies like diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra color and nutrients.
Prefer a spicy kick? Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda to change up the flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk, though the soup may be slightly less creamy.

No matter how you choose to customize it, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Try it out tonight and see why it’s a favorite in so many homes!