Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cold days, this soup is made easily in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying family meal that everyone will enjoy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Ingredients:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 12 oz frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 10.5 oz can cheddar cheese soup
- ½ tsp black pepper
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz Velveeta, cubed (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Beef and Aromatics:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and diced onion until no pink remains (about 8–10 minutes). Drain any grease.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, diced potatoes, peas and carrots (if using), cheddar cheese soup, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup:
- Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese:
- About an hour before serving, stir in heavy cream and Velveeta (if using). Cover and cook until the cheese is fully melted, stirring occasionally.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm with crusty bread or cornbread.
Nutrients
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (out of 6 servings)
- Calories: 457 kcal
- Nutritional Breakdown:
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~28g
- Saturated Fat: ~14g
- Sodium: ~820mg
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~4g
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture and hearty flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Perfect for those looking for a warm, satisfying meal!
Why Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Is a Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals, few dishes rival the cozy warmth of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This recipe combines the savory richness of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese, all brought together in a luxurious broth. Whether you’re seeking a warm meal to combat a chilly day or a crowd-pleasing option for family dinners, this soup is a guaranteed hit.
What sets this dish apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. Made in a slow cooker, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a masterclass in combining simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. Each component contributes to the dish’s overall appeal:
- Ground Beef: Seasoned ground beef forms the hearty base of the soup, adding richness and protein to every bite.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, as their starchy texture helps thicken the broth and create a velvety consistency.
- Cheesy Broth: The addition of cheddar cheese soup and Velveeta (optional) creates a creamy, indulgent broth that ties the entire dish together.
- Vegetables: Optional peas and carrots bring a subtle sweetness and additional nutrients, making the soup even more satisfying.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics infuse the soup with a savory depth, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.
The combination of these ingredients results in a soup that’s as comforting as it is delicious, offering layers of flavor and texture that keep you coming back for more.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is an ideal choice for cold-weather meals, its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of occasions. Here’s why it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation:
- Weeknight Dinners: With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this soup is perfect for busy evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.
- Family Gatherings: Its creamy texture and savory flavors appeal to all ages, making it a great dish for family dinners or potlucks.
- Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully, allowing you to make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Comfort Food Cravings: When you’re in the mood for something indulgent and hearty, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup hits the spot.
Its adaptability ensures it can be tailored to fit any occasion, making it a staple for home cooks.
Nutritional Highlights of a Comforting Meal
Although Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is an indulgent dish, it also offers several nutritional benefits that make it a balanced choice. Here’s a closer look at its nutritional profile:
- Protein-Packed: With ~30 grams of protein per serving, this soup supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
- Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates: The potatoes provide a source of complex carbohydrates, giving the dish its comforting, hearty nature.
- Rich in Calcium: The cheese and cream contribute to the soup’s calcium content, supporting healthy bones and teeth.
- Customizable Nutrition: Add extra vegetables like spinach, celery, or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrient content without altering the flavor.
By balancing indulgence with nourishment, this soup becomes a comforting yet practical choice for any meal.
Customizing Your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
One of the best features of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some customization ideas:
- Swap the Protein: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and Velveeta are classic choices, try using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a combination of cheeses for a unique twist.
- Add More Veggies: Include corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce, smoked paprika, or chili powder for a hint of heat and smokiness.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
These customizations ensure that Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup can be tailored to fit any palate or occasion.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
While this soup is satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary sides and toppings can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Toppings:
- Crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Shredded cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
- Drinks: Pair with a light beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a glass of iced tea to complement the dish’s flavors.
These pairings create a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, as their starchy texture helps thicken the broth.
- Don’t Overcook: Monitor the cooking time closely to ensure the potatoes retain their texture without becoming mushy.
- Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Properly browning the ground beef enhances its flavor and ensures a rich base for the soup.
- Stir Carefully: When adding cheese or cream, stir gently to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
These tips will help you create a soup that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured.
Why This Soup Is a Family Favorite
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup has all the qualities of a beloved family recipe. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a comforting, home-cooked flavor that everyone loves. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it especially appealing to kids, while adults appreciate its depth of flavor and customizable options.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. With its rich, cheesy broth, hearty potatoes, and savory ground beef, this dish satisfies cravings for warmth and indulgence. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a versatile choice for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep.