There are few dishes that capture the essence of comfort food quite like Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this soup combines juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese into a one-pot meal that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or family gatherings, it’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple dinner into a memorable experience.
Whether you’re a home cook looking for a cozy new recipe or someone searching for a versatile dish that can adapt to any lifestyle (keto, gluten-free, or meal-prep friendly), this soup delivers on all fronts.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the star players that make this soup irresistibly delicious:
- Ground Beef – Use 80/20 for flavor, or lean beef for a lighter version.
- Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold give the best creamy texture.
- Onion & Garlic – For aromatic depth.
- Carrots & Celery – Add natural sweetness and balance.
- Beef Broth – A rich base for the soup.
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Creaminess without being too heavy.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar melts perfectly, creating a cheesy, velvety finish.
- Butter & Flour – For a simple roux that thickens the soup.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme (optional for earthiness).
👉 Substitution Ideas:
- Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or venison.
- Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.
- Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or smoked gouda for a flavor twist.
- Use dairy-free cheese and coconut milk for a lactose-free version.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Stovetop Method (Classic)
- Brown the Beef – In a large pot, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Veggies – Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add Potatoes & Broth – Stir in diced potatoes and pour in beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Make the Roux – In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Slowly add cream to form a smooth sauce.
- Combine & Thicken – Stir roux mixture into soup, then fold in shredded cheddar until fully melted.
- Season & Serve – Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with toppings.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown beef and sauté veggies first.
- Add all ingredients (except cheese and cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in cream and cheese at the end before serving.
Instant Pot Method
- Use the sauté function for beef and veggies.
- Add potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Quick release, then stir in roux, cream, and cheese.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is filling enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Breadsticks (perfect for dipping).
- Fresh Green Salad (to balance richness).
- Roasted Vegetables (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus).
👉 Beverage Pairings:
- For families: Iced tea, apple cider, or sparkling water with lemon.
- For adults: A crisp lager, Chardonnay, or light-bodied red wine.
🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months (best before adding cheese—add fresh when reheating).
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. If thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
🥦 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
👉 Values vary depending on ingredients and substitutions.
💡 Chef’s Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded (which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting).
✔ Don’t boil after adding cheese—this can cause separation.
✔ Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
✔ For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?
Yes! For best texture, freeze before adding cheese. When reheating, add cheese fresh for a creamy finish.
Q: How do I thicken the soup naturally without flour?
You can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, which naturally thickens the broth.
Q: What cheese melts best in this soup?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack and gouda also melt beautifully without clumping.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk, or cashew cream.
📝 Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a bowl of comfort, nostalgia, and versatility. Whether you serve it on a cold winter’s night, make it ahead for busy weekdays, or customize it with your own twists, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.
It’s hearty, cheesy, and filling, yet adaptable enough to suit almost any dietary need. Add it to your recipe collection, and you’ll have a family favorite for years to come.
