Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup – Hearty Comfort in Every Bite
This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy base of cheddar cheese and milk. With a blend of hearty vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a filling, satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:
This soup brings together the best of comfort food, combining the richness of ground beef with the smoothness of melted cheese and creamy milk. The addition of carrots, peas, and corn gives it a colorful, well-rounded flavor. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family meal or as leftovers for lunch the next day.
Hearty & Filling: Ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables come together to make a filling and satisfying meal.
Creamy & Flavorful: The melted cheddar cheese and milk create a rich, creamy texture that makes every spoonful indulgent.
Loaded with Veggies: Carrots, peas, corn, and potatoes add both flavor and nutritional value to the soup.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this soup is a breeze to prepare on any busy night.
Nutritional Benefits:
Ground Beef: A good source of protein and iron, ground beef helps build muscle and supports overall health.
Potatoes: Packed with vitamins and minerals like potassium, potatoes provide a nutritious base for the soup.
Carrots: Rich in vitamin A, carrots help promote good vision and skin health.
Frozen Veggies: Peas and corn provide extra fiber and nutrients, making this soup even more well-rounded.
Ingredients for Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups diced potatoes
4 cups beef broth
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef (Time: 5-7 minutes)
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once the beef is browned.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic (Time: 2-3 minutes)
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings (Time: 5 minutes)
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Add Vegetables (Time: 5-7 minutes)
Once the potatoes are tender, add the frozen corn, frozen peas, and diced carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
5. Make it Creamy (Time: 5 minutes)
Pour in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a bit more milk at this stage.
6. Adjust Seasonings (Time: 1-2 minutes)
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. You can also add extra cheese for a cheesier flavor if you prefer!
7. Serve & Garnish (Time: 2 minutes)
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (varies by portion size)
Tips for the Best Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:
Ground Beef Substitute: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or replace any vegetables you like! Green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions.
Make it Even Creamier: For a richer soup, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or add more cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
FAQ About Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes! While cheddar is the most common choice, you can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh corn, peas, and carrots can easily be substituted. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the soup.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect meal for a chilly evening or when you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish. With its creamy texture, flavorful beef, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family, and leave a comment letting us know how your soup turned out! Enjoy this cozy meal and stay warm!