Description
This hamburger potato soup is the ultimate comfort food! Made with ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy broth, this one-pot meal is warm, hearty, and filling. Perfect for chilly days, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a simple, nutritious meal.
With just 15 minutes of prep time, this easy soup recipe is great for families and meal prep. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream or half & half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Velveeta for extra creaminess)
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- ½ cup frozen corn or peas (for extra texture and sweetness)
- 6 strips crispy bacon, crumbled (for smoky flavor)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- Additional shredded cheese (for extra cheesiness on top!)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Stir in carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes.
- Add chicken broth, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine & Melt the Cheese
- Pour the creamy mixture into the soup and stir well.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with bacon, green onions, or extra cheese.
- Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Notes
✅ Use Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes – These hold their shape better than russet potatoes.
✅ Make it Dairy-Free – Swap milk and cream for unsweetened almond or oat milk.
✅ Add More Protein – Stir in cooked sausage or ground turkey instead of beef.
✅ For a Lighter Version – Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
✅ Spice It Up – Add red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 376 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g