There’s something truly magical about a bowl of warm soup when you’re craving comfort food, and for me, that magic lies in cheesy hamburger potato soup. This is the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket, making all your worries fade away with each creamy, cheesy bite. I remember the first time I made this soup on a chilly evening; the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. The heartiness of the ground beef and tender potatoes creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any family gathering or just a weeknight dinner. Plus, the silky texture of the broth, enriched with melted cheddar, is nothing short of divine. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this comforting classic over and over again!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (use lean for less fat)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (this adds a sweet depth)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier for flavor!)
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (I prefer Yukon Gold for their creaminess)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s full-flavored)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk will make it extra creamy)
- 2 cups packed shredded cheddar cheese (don’t skimp on the cheese, it’s the star!)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste, depending on your broth)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 1 tsp paprika (adds a touch of warmth and color)
- 2 tbsp butter (for that rich, buttery taste)
How to Prepare Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making this delightful cheesy hamburger potato soup! It’s super simple, and trust me, you’re going to love how quickly it all comes together.
- First, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and start browning it, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want it nice and browned, filled with flavor!
- Once the beef is cooked through, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them sauté together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This is where your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
- Now, stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can poke them with a fork to check—if it goes in easily, they’re good to go!
- Next, stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. This shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—every palate is different!
- Once it’s all hot and creamy, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy while it’s nice and steaming. You can add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top or even some croutons for a bit of crunch if you like!
And there you have it! Your hearty, cheesy, and comforting cheesy hamburger potato soup is ready to warm you from the inside out. Just wait until you take that first spoonful; it’s pure bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent with every bite.
- Hearty ingredients that will keep you feeling satisfied and full.
- One-pot meal means less mess and hassle while cooking.
- Delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices for a twist!
- Family-friendly dish that kids and adults will both love.
- Warm and comforting, ideal for chilly days or any time you need a hug in a bowl.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect cheesy hamburger potato soup can be a breeze if you keep a few handy tips in mind. First off, don’t rush the browning of the ground beef. This step is crucial for building that deep, rich flavor in your soup. Make sure to break it up well as it cooks, so you get even browning everywhere.
Another tip is to keep an eye on your potatoes. If they’re cut too large, they’ll take longer to cook, and we want them tender and creamy, not crunchy! Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this recipe because they break down beautifully and add to the creaminess, but feel free to experiment with others like red or russet.
Also, when it comes to seasoning, always taste as you go! Depending on the beef broth you use, you may want to adjust the salt and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Lastly, if you’re looking to enhance the flavor even more, try stirring in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. They add a lovely freshness that really elevates the soup. And remember, if you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help keep the flavors locked in and prevent any weird textural changes!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best cheesy hamburger potato soup ever. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family—they’ll love it just as much as you do!
Variations
If you’re like me and love to shake things up in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know there are plenty of ways to customize your cheesy hamburger potato soup! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Veggie Boost: Add in some chopped carrots, celery, or even spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Just toss them in when you add the potatoes and let them cook until tender.
- Cheese Lovers: While cheddar is a classic, you can mix it up with different cheeses! Try Monterey Jack for a creamier texture, or even a sharp blue cheese for a bold flavor. You could also blend in some cream cheese for added richness.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a more smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can really elevate the flavor. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Meat Options: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even diced ham for a smoky twist. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the soup!
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top your soup with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and chives to give it that loaded baked potato feel. It adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that’s just divine.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these suggestions based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. The beauty of this cheesy hamburger potato soup is that it’s super versatile, so you can make it your own every time you whip it up!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious cheesy hamburger potato soup, don’t worry! Storing it is a breeze. Just let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors again soon!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Simply pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This helps maintain that creamy texture you love. If the soup seems a bit thick after refrigeration, just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover it to prevent splatters and stir halfway through to heat evenly. Enjoy your cozy leftovers!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of cheesy hamburger potato soup, it’s good to know what you’re getting nutritionally! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving, which is about 1 cup:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Please note that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy your comforting soup while being mindful of your nutritional needs!
FAQ Section
Can I make cheesy hamburger potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze cheesy hamburger potato soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this soup. You could also use diced ham or even meat alternatives if you want a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that each protein will bring its own flavor to the dish.
How can I make the soup more flavorful?
To amp up the flavor of your cheesy hamburger potato soup, consider adding some fresh herbs, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect flavor combination!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or even a bit of cream cheese for that extra creaminess. Just remember to adjust the amount based on how cheesy you want your soup!

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A creamy and cheesy soup packed with hamburger and potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the milk, cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook until the cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For extra creaminess, add more cheese.
- Top with additional cheese or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cheesy hamburger potato soup, creamy soup, beef soup