Cheesy Hamburger Potato soup

Introduction

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a delicious, hearty meal that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth of a comforting soup. This recipe is perfect for those cold nights when you’re craving something creamy, savory, and filling. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Overview

The ingredients for this soup are simple, yet they create a rich, complex flavor:

• Ground beef: Choose lean beef for a healthier option, or a fattier cut for more flavor.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes provide the best texture.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese or Velveeta works well to create that creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Vegetables: Onion, celery, and carrots enhance the flavor and add a subtle sweetness.
• Broth: Beef broth is ideal, but chicken broth can be used as well.

Tip: For more variations, you can try adding extra vegetables or substituting the beef with plant-based alternatives.

If you’re a fan of soups with a rich texture, you might also enjoy Vegetable Beef Barley Soup, another wholesome option for a hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is simple, and it comes together in just a few steps. Follow these detailed instructions to create a delicious, creamy, and hearty meal.

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need:

• 1 lb of ground beef
• 4 cups of diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups of beef or chicken broth
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or Velveeta)
• 1 cup of milk or cream
• Salt, pepper, and seasonings (such as thyme or garlic powder)

Peel and dice the potatoes and chop the vegetables. Shredding the cheese ahead of time ensures the process goes smoothly.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Break the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon, ensuring it browns evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once fully browned, drain the excess fat and remove the beef from the pot. Set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little oil or butter if needed, then sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat. Cook until the vegetables become tender, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

4. Add the Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine them with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in 4 cups of broth (beef or chicken) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

5. Add Cheese and Milk

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Add 1 cup of milk or cream, stirring to combine, until the soup becomes creamy and thick. Make sure not to let the soup boil after adding the cheese and milk, as this can cause curdling.

6. Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs you like. Common choices include thyme, garlic powder, or even a dash of paprika for extra flavor. Once seasoned, return the cooked ground beef to the pot, stirring until well combined.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, green onions, or crumbled bacon for added flavor. Enjoy!

Making this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is quick and easy. Follow these steps for the perfect soup:

Looking for more cozy meals? Try this easy recipe for Instant Pot Vegetable Beef Soup, which combines rich flavors and tender meat in a fraction of the time.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is its versatility. There are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or to simply change things up a bit. Here are a few popular variations and customizations to consider:

1. Vegetarian Version

If you’re looking for a meat-free option, you can easily adapt this soup by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based alternative. Products like ground meat substitutes or lentils work well in place of beef. For a heartier vegetarian version, you can add more vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to give the soup additional texture and flavor.

2. Low-Carb/Keto Variation

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, the potatoes can be replaced with cauliflower florets. Cauliflower is a great substitute for potatoes because it has a similar texture when cooked but is much lower in carbohydrates. Simply follow the recipe as usual but substitute diced cauliflower for the potatoes. The soup will still be creamy and delicious but much more keto-friendly.

3. Cheese Variations

The type of cheese you use can completely change the flavor of the soup. While cheddar is the go-to for many, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, Colby, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick. Combining different cheeses can also create a more complex flavor profile.

4. Add Extra Vegetables

If you want to boost the nutritional content of the soup, feel free to add additional vegetables such as spinach, corn, or peas. These veggies not only add extra vitamins and minerals but also contribute more color and texture to the dish, making it even more satisfying.

These simple customizations ensure that your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup fits any dietary need or flavor preference!

If you love comfort foods like this soup, you might also want to explore other hearty options like Smoked Meatloaf, a flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with warm sides.

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Nutritional Information

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is both indulgent and satisfying. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional content:

• Calories: Around 400-500 per serving.
• Protein: 20-25g, depending on the cheese and beef used.
• Fat: Approximately 30g, primarily from the beef and cheese.
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g, mostly from the potatoes.

For those looking to lighten the recipe, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey, along with low-fat cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• A side of buttery biscuits or cornbread.

For a similar comforting recipe, you might also enjoy the warm flavors of Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta, a perfect fall side dish.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the ground beef first, then add all the ingredients except the cheese to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese at the end.

What cheese is best for this soup?

Cheddar cheese works great, but you can use other types like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Velveeta for extra creaminess.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, soups with potatoes may change texture when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the cheese. Reheat and stir in the cheese just before serving.