Description
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of soup that not only warms your body but also your soul. For me, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is one of those dishes that takes me back to the coziest moments of my childhood. Imagine coming in from the crisp autumn air, cheeks flushed from the chill, and being greeted by the rich, savory aroma of this hearty soup simmering on the stove. It’s a meal that wraps you in a blanket of flavor and nostalgia.
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of a cheesy base, the satisfying texture of tender potatoes, and the savory goodness of ground beef. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to the table, from picky eaters to soup enthusiasts. Whether you’re making it for a quiet family dinner, a potluck with friends, or simply because you need a little extra warmth in your day, this soup is guaranteed to deliver comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy turkey bacon bits, additional shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step is where the soup gets its hearty, savory base. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Pro Tip: Using lean ground beef reduces the need for draining and keeps the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Stir everything together and cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its irresistible aroma. This is where the magic starts to happen as the base of your soup comes to life.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
Toss in the diced potatoes, stirring to coat them in the savory mixture of beef, onions, and garlic. The potatoes will soften as they cook, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the soup. At this stage, your kitchen will already smell amazing!
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Carefully add the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the soup is simmering, it’s time to make the creamy cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, then remove it from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Pro Tip: For a more robust cheese flavor, use sharp cheddar. You can also mix in a little Monterey Jack or Gouda for added depth.
Step 6: Combine and Season
Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the beef and potato mixture. Stir everything together until the soup is velvety and well-combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top it with your favorite garnishes. Whether it’s a sprinkle of green onions, crispy turkey bacon bits, or an extra handful of shredded cheese, these finishing touches take the soup to the next level.
Notes
This soup is a meal-prepper’s dream. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stovetop. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.