There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. This hearty, velvety soup is packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
I first discovered this recipe on a whim when trying to create a filling meal from pantry staples. It was an instant hit, and now it’s one of those dishes my family requests whenever they need a little extra comfort. Let’s dive into what makes this soup a must-try for your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food. Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simple, delicious ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and a handful of common ingredients, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look forward to cooking, even on busy weeknights.
This soup is also wonderfully budget-friendly. Ground beef and potatoes are affordable staples, and the rest of the ingredients are likely already in your fridge or pantry. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something extraordinary.
Another reason to love this recipe is its family-friendly appeal. The creamy, cheesy flavor is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for picky eaters. You can even customize it with toppings like crumbled bacon, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair.
Finally, the leftovers are fantastic. The flavors only deepen as the soup sits, meaning you’ll have a ready-to-reheat meal that tastes even better the next day. Let’s talk about what you’ll need to get started.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying.
The ground beef is the star of the show, adding a savory depth to the soup. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the soup from becoming too greasy, but you can use whatever you have on hand. For a slightly richer flavor, ground turkey or sausage are excellent substitutes.
Potatoes provide the creamy, starchy foundation for this soup. Russet potatoes are my top choice because they break down beautifully, creating a naturally thick and velvety texture. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, Yukon Golds are another great option.
The cheese is where this soup truly shines. Shredded cheddar melts seamlessly into the broth, giving it that irresistible cheesy goodness. For an extra punch of flavor, try using sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Parmesan.
A blend of broth and milk forms the base of the soup, balancing richness with a light, savory note. I like using chicken or vegetable broth for a clean, neutral flavor. You can also opt for half-and-half instead of milk if you want an even creamier soup.
Finally, don’t forget the aromatics—onions, garlic, and a touch of seasoning elevate this soup from good to unforgettable. And if you have some butter and flour on hand, a quick roux ensures the perfect thickness for your soup.
How to Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Making this soup is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once it’s fully browned, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. This step ensures the soup stays rich without being overly oily.
In the same pot, add a knob of butter and sauté your diced onions until they’re soft and translucent. Toss in minced garlic, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. These aromatics lay the foundation for the soup’s incredible flavor.
Next, stir in your flour to create a roux. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in your broth and milk. This process prevents lumps and creates a smooth, creamy base for your soup.
Add the potatoes to the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
Once the potatoes are ready, return the browned ground beef to the pot. Stir in your shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt completely into the soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you love, like paprika or thyme. The soup is ready when it’s thick, creamy, and bursting with cheesy goodness.
Storage Options
This soup stores beautifully, making it a fantastic meal-prep option. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to four days.
For longer storage, you can freeze it. Divide the soup into individual portions and store them in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture.
When reheating, be sure to stir frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. A low and slow approach works best to preserve the soup’s velvety consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is its versatility. There are so many ways to make this recipe your own.
For a healthier twist, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or frozen peas for a nutrient boost.
If you’re looking to switch up the flavor profile, try using a different type of cheese. Smoked gouda or pepper jack add a unique touch, while a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles gives the soup a bold edge.
Vegetarian? Skip the meat entirely and load the soup with extra potatoes, beans, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add a dash of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
Finally, spice lovers can kick things up a notch with diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. A drizzle of hot sauce over your bowl is another easy way to add some heat.
No matter how you make it, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. With its comforting flavors and endless customizations, it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!
PrintCheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
This cheesy hamburger potato soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, cheese, and a rich, creamy broth, it's an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold days. Serve this hearty and satisfying soup to your family for a delicious, homemade dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pot, then sauté the onions until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in chicken broth to create a thickened mixture.
- Add the diced potatoes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Stir in the cooked ground beef, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick of heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
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