There's nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of creamy potato and hamburger soup on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth paired with hearty potatoes and savory ground beef makes for the ultimate cozy meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something simple yet delicious.

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with pantry staples on a cold winter day. It quickly became a household favorite, with everyone asking for second helpings. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to fall in love with a soup that checks all the boxes for comfort, flavor, and ease. This creamy potato and hamburger soup is a game-changer for your weeknight dinner routine.

First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. In less than an hour, you can have a steaming pot of soup ready to serve, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when time is short.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using ground beef and potatoes, both affordable and versatile ingredients, allows you to create a filling meal without breaking the bank.

The flavor is unmatched. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and a creamy, seasoned broth will have everyone at the table going back for seconds.

Finally, this soup is highly adaptable. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the creaminess, the recipe can be tailored to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this creamy potato and hamburger soup lies in its simplicity, using a handful of basic ingredients to create big flavor.

Ground beef is the star protein here. Choose lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference. If you opt for regular, be sure to drain excess grease after browning.

Potatoes provide the hearty base of this soup. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work wonderfully, as they break down slightly when cooked, giving the soup its creamy texture.

Onions and garlic bring depth and aroma to the dish. Sautéing them alongside the beef ensures a rich, savory base.

The broth is a mix of chicken or beef stock and heavy cream, which creates a silky, indulgent soup base. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

A handful of shredded cheddar cheese adds a touch of sharpness and enhances the creamy consistency.

For seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika are all you need, but feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.

You’ll also need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook the soup evenly and ensure there’s plenty of room for all the ingredients.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making this soup is a straightforward process, perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer it to a bowl.

In the same pot, add a splash of olive oil and sauté diced onions until they become soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Next, stir in peeled and diced potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the onion-garlic mixture. Pour in the broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits for added flavor.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your potato pieces.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to slightly mash some of them. This step thickens the soup naturally, creating a luscious texture.

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir in heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the creamy texture might change slightly upon reheating, but a quick stir will restore its consistency.

Reheat individual servings on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the desired consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This creamy potato and hamburger soup is endlessly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

If you’re looking for a protein swap, try ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.

Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn for extra texture and nutrients. These can be sautéed with the onions at the start of the recipe.

Want a bit of spice? Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

For a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.

Experiment with toppings like crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the dish.

This creamy potato and hamburger soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It's easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and brimming with comfort in every bite. Give it a try tonight!