This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is like a cozy, warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for chilly days, it’s loaded with hearty ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a generous amount of cheese. It’s one of those one-pot wonders that’s simple to make and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, this soup is a full meal in a bowl.
- Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—what more could you ask for on a cold day?
- Quick & Easy: Made with simple ingredients you likely already have, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The base for that hearty flavor.
- 1 cup diced yellow onions: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 cup butter: For richness and to create a creamy roux.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Balances the richness with savory goodness.
- 3 cups half-and-half cream: For that ultra-creamy texture.
- 1 tbsp garlic powder & 1 tbsp onion powder: Seasoning staples to boost the flavor.
- 1 tsp salt & 1 tsp pepper: Simple seasoning for balance.
- 3 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes: The easiest way to get perfect potato chunks!
- 1 cup chopped green onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 2 cups shredded triple cheddar cheese blend: Melty, cheesy goodness.
Variations
- Swap the Beef: Ground turkey or chicken works great for a lighter version.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn for extra texture and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large pot over medium-high heat, dump in the ground beef and diced onions. Crumble the beef as it cooks, stirring frequently. Once the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, you’re ready for the next step.
2. Make the Roux
Add the butter to the pot and stir until melted. Sprinkle in the flour and stir everything together, cooking for about 3 minutes. This will thicken the soup and give it that creamy base.
3. Add the Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid any lumps. Once you have a smooth mixture, slowly whisk in the half-and-half cream. This is where the magic happens—it starts turning into a luscious soup!
4. Season It Up
Whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The spices will amp up the flavor without overpowering the creaminess.
5. Add the Potatoes
Toss in the frozen diced hash brown potatoes and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Add Green Onions and Cheese
After 10 minutes, stir in the chopped green onions for a burst of fresh flavor. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s all melted and perfectly creamy.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, grab a spoon, and dive into the cheesy goodness. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds!
How to Serve
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle extra cheese or crispy bacon bits on top for added indulgence.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad pairs well to balance out the richness of the soup.
Make Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often.
- Freezer: You can freeze this soup! Just cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, just peel and dice fresh potatoes, then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.
What kind of cheese works best?
A sharp cheddar cheese gives the soup great flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends.
How can I make this soup lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as creamy.
There you have it—a big, comforting bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup! It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a cozy blanket, even on the coldest days. Enjoy!
