Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: A Comforting, Hearty Meal in a Bowl
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than a warm, creamy soup to bring comfort and joy to your table. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the savory flavors of lean ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
1. One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Comfort Food Classic: It’s like a cheeseburger and a baked potato in soup form—what’s not to love?
3. Nutritious Yet Indulgent: Made with lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and skim milk, it’s a lighter twist on a classic comfort food.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this soul-warming soup, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
• 1 lb lean ground beef 🥩: A healthier option that keeps the soup rich in protein without excess fat.
• 4 medium potatoes, diced 🥔: Potatoes add body and texture, making the soup extra filling.
• 1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese 🧀: Melts into the soup for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth 🍲: The base of the soup, rich and flavorful.
• 1 cup skim milk 🥛: Helps create the creamy consistency without heavy cream.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿: A herbaceous note that complements the beef and potatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
• Fresh parsley for garnish 🌱: A pop of color and freshness to finish the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat. Stir frequently, breaking the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the soup’s base flavors.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes, low-sodium beef broth, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Create the Creamy Base
Once the potatoes are cooked, pour in the skim milk and stir in the shredded low-fat cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted, creating a rich, creamy consistency.
5. Season and Finish
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember to start with a little and adjust to your preference.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness of this hearty soup!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best as they break down slightly, helping to thicken the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer just until tender to maintain some texture.
• For Extra Creaminess: Blend a small portion of the soup before adding the cheese and milk. This will create an even creamier texture without the need for additional ingredients.
• Customize It: Add diced carrots, celery, or even frozen peas for extra vegetables.
What to Serve with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with fresh bread, crackers, or a side salad elevates the meal. Try it with:
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Add a touch of indulgence.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh, light side dish to balance the richness of the soup.
Why This Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef and creamy cheese complement the tender chunks of potato, while the thyme and garlic add depth and warmth. It’s a soup that feels indulgent but is packed with nourishing ingredients to keep you fueled and satisfied.
Make It Your Own
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this soup is endlessly adaptable. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation, or swap in plant-based beef for a vegetarian-friendly version. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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