When the weather cools down, nothing beats a bowl of creamy potato hamburger soup. This comforting dish combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and a velvety broth to create the ultimate family-friendly meal. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a cozy night at home or looking for a recipe to satisfy a crowd, this soup is a must-try.
Why This Soup Is a Must-Have
The creamy potato hamburger soup stands out as a versatile dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Ground beef and potatoes create a hearty base, while a cheese-infused broth adds richness. If you’re short on time, this dish can also be adapted for a crockpot or Instant Pot. The Kitchen Magpie recipe highlights how simple ingredients can transform into a comforting masterpiece.
Cooking this soup in a crockpot is another excellent option for busy schedules. By slowly simmering the ingredients, the flavors meld beautifully, as showcased in Jeviko’s crockpot soup guide.
How to Make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup
Creating creamy potato hamburger soup at home is easy and rewarding. This hearty, comforting dish combines simple ingredients with rich flavors, making it a family favorite. Follow these detailed instructions to make this soup using your preferred method—stovetop, crockpot, or Instant Pot.
Ingredients
To make the best creamy potato hamburger soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a flavorful yet less greasy base.
- 6 medium-sized potatoes: Russet potatoes work well for thickening, while Yukon Golds add a creamy texture. Peel and cube them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- 1 medium onion: Finely diced for a subtle, sweet flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the soup with a savory aroma.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness, or substitute with beef or vegetable broth for different flavor profiles.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the soup.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, but you can use your favorite variety.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika enhance the dish’s overall flavor. Adjust to taste.
Preparation Methods
Choose one of the following cooking methods based on your time and equipment.
Stovetop Method
Perfect for those who enjoy hands-on cooking with quick results:
- Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup achieves a creamy consistency. Serve hot.
Crockpot Method
Ideal for busy days when you want the soup to cook slowly and develop deep flavors:
- Prep Ingredients: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then drain the fat.
- Layer in the Crockpot: Add the browned beef, potatoes, diced onions, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
- Cook Slowly: Set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the potatoes to become tender and flavors to meld.
- Add Cream and Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Let it heat through until the cheese melts. Serve warm.
Instant Pot Method
Best for those who need a quick, hands-off solution:
- Sauté the Ground Beef: Use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to brown the ground beef. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Core Ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow the pot to build pressure and cook automatically.
- Quick Release: Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the release valve.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately for a quick, satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Consistent Potato Sizes: Cut potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Prevent Curdling: When adding cream, lower the heat to prevent it from curdling.
- Cheese Integration: Add cheese gradually, stirring well to avoid clumps.
- Customizable Ingredients: Experiment with additional vegetables like carrots or celery, or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
With these detailed methods, you’ll master the art of making creamy potato hamburger soup, whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely family meal.
Variations and Enhancements
Creative Variations
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Change the Protein: Use ground turkey, sausage, or bacon for a twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Flavor Boosters
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the beefy taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your creamy potato hamburger soup with the right sides elevates the meal:
- Bread: Serve with warm sourdough, cornbread, or a French baguette for dipping.
- Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.
- Beverages: Complement the flavors with cider, light beer, or herbal teas.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled soup in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs: Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup
Q: What type of potatoes work best?
A: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the top choices for Creamy potato hamburger soup. Russet potatoes are starchy and break down easily during cooking, which helps thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Gold potatoes, on the other hand, are waxy and hold their shape better, adding a creamy texture and buttery flavor. For a slightly chunky soup, combine both types to achieve a perfect balance of textures.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup is an excellent make-ahead meal. As the soup rests, the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious when reheated. To prepare ahead:
- Cook the soup completely and let it cool to room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
Freezing is another option, but leave out the cream and cheese before freezing to avoid a grainy texture. Add them fresh when reheating.
Q: How can I thicken the soup?
A: There are several ways to thicken creamy potato hamburger soup:
- Mash the potatoes: Use a potato masher to mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. This will naturally thicken the soup without adding extra ingredients.
- Add a cornstarch slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water or broth. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup and cook until thickened.
- Use a roux: Make a simple roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour, then stir it into the soup for a richer, thicker consistency.
Q: Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
A: Yes, this Creamy potato hamburger soup can easily be adapted to suit a vegetarian diet! Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a hearty, protein-packed option. Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain a rich flavor. You can also add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to enhance the soup’s texture and nutritional value. For a cheesy flavor without dairy, use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.
With these adjustments, you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of creamy potato hamburger soup that’s just as satisfying as the original.
Conclusion
Creamy potato hamburger soup is a hearty, versatile dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it on the stovetop, in a crockpot, or with an Instant Pot, this soup delivers satisfying flavors in every bite. Pair it with fresh bread, add your favorite garnishes, and enjoy this ultimate comfort food. For a cheesy twist on the classic recipe, explore creative variations here.
Don’t wait—bring this recipe to your table and enjoy the warm embrace of delicious homemade soup!