Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty, and filling dish that will quickly become a family favorite. This soup combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes in a rich, creamy base, making it the perfect dish for cold days or when you just need something satisfying. It’s easy to make and can be prepared on the stovetop in about an hour, or in a slow cooker for an even more hands-off approach. Let’s explore this delicious soup and why it’s a must-try recipe for your next meal!
About the Recipe
This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ground beef provides a savory, meaty base, while the potatoes offer heartiness and a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the smooth and creamy broth. Seasoned with garlic, onions, and a hint of thyme or rosemary, the soup is flavorful without being overwhelming. The addition of heavy cream or milk gives it that velvety, indulgent quality that makes each spoonful a treat.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily make it with ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a small batch for dinner, this soup is both scalable and satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable with extra vegetables or different types of cheese, making it easy to adapt to your preferences.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
– Servings: 6-8 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Hearty & Filling: Ground beef and potatoes create a filling meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.
2. Creamy Comfort: The smooth, creamy base makes each spoonful indulgent and comforting.
3. Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
4. Versatile: Add or swap vegetables and seasonings to suit your tastes.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: The soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prepping or lunch the next day.
Ingredients Notes
– Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for a less greasy soup. You can also swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
– Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well because they break down a bit as they cook, thickening the soup. You can also use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
– Broth: You can use beef or chicken broth depending on your preference. For a richer flavor, beef broth is the best option.
– Cream: For a richer, thicker soup, use heavy cream. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free cream substitute.
– Cheese: Optional, but a bit of shredded cheddar or Parmesan stirred in at the end adds extra flavor and creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes & Broth: Add the diced potatoes, broth, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs (such as thyme or rosemary). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Creamy Base: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream or milk. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
5. Finish the Soup: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, stir in shredded cheese for added creaminess.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Storage Options
– Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezer: This soup freezes well, though the cream may slightly change in texture after freezing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetables: Add more vegetables to the soup for extra nutrition, such as carrots, celery, or peas. You can also add corn for a slightly sweeter taste.
– Spices & Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, dill, or bay leaves, or add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
– Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, like Gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack, for different flavors.
– Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use dairy-free cheese if desired.
Conclusion
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the perfect dish when you want something hearty, comforting, and easy to make. With its creamy texture, flavorful beef, and tender potatoes, it’s a soup that can please everyone at the table. Whether you make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this soup is a great option for busy days or relaxed weekends. And with its customizable ingredients and options for leftovers, it’s a meal you can enjoy over and over again!