When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave a satisfying homemade meal, few dishes hit the spot quite like a steaming bowl of Hamburger Potato Soup. This beloved comfort food combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy texture of potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. What makes this hamburger potato soup recipe truly special is its perfect balance of simplicity and depth of flavor – it’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for casual gatherings.
Many families have their own cherished versions of this classic soup, passed down through generations. The recipe we’re sharing today builds on those traditional foundations while offering helpful tips and variations to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to some homemade comfort, this soup delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
The foundation of any great hamburger potato soup begins with properly prepared vegetables. Start by selecting 4 medium-sized russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – these varieties hold their shape well during cooking while becoming perfectly tender. After peeling (or leaving the skins on for extra fiber and texture), dice them into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
For the aromatic base, finely chop one medium yellow onion and 2 celery stalks. The celery adds a subtle earthy note that complements the other flavors beautifully. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. The olive oil adds a pleasant richness, but you could substitute butter if preferred. Sauté the onions and celery until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes – this step builds incredible depth of flavor.
Add the diced potatoes along with 4 cups of high-quality chicken or beef broth (homemade broth elevates the soup, but store-bought works perfectly fine). For those looking for recipe inspiration, this classic version from AllRecipes offers a similar approach with some delightful variations. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender – be careful not to overcook them at this stage.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the vegetables simmer, turn your attention to the “hamburger” component of your hamburger potato soup. Select 1 pound of lean ground beef (85-90% lean works well) – the fat content adds flavor while not making the soup too greasy. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the beef, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This technique ensures the meat distributes evenly throughout the soup.
Once the beef is fully browned (about 5-7 minutes), carefully drain any excess fat – leaving about a tablespoon for flavor. Now comes the seasoning: add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, plus ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming them. For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, this would be an excellent point to add other spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of thyme.
If you’re looking for more hearty meal ideas to round out your dinner rotation, check out these delicious family-friendly recipes from MealsMom that pair perfectly with this comforting soup.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once your potatoes are perfectly tender (test with a fork – they should offer slight resistance but not be crunchy), it’s time to bring all the elements together. Add the seasoned ground beef to the pot, stirring gently to distribute it evenly throughout the soup. At this stage, the aromas will begin to mingle beautifully, creating that signature hamburger potato soup fragrance that fills your kitchen.
For extra richness and creaminess, this is the perfect time to stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese should melt gradually into the hot soup, creating silky strands of flavor throughout. If you prefer a more pronounced cheese flavor, you might consider adding a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes after adding the cheese – this allows the flavors to marry and the cheese to fully incorporate.
For those who prefer a dairy-free version, you can omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The soup will still be delicious, just slightly different in character. This flexibility is part of what makes this hamburger potato soup recipe so wonderful – it adapts easily to various dietary needs and preferences.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Final Touches
The final step in perfecting your hamburger potato soup is achieving that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk or half-and-half – the higher fat content creates a richer mouthfeel. For those watching their fat intake, 2% milk works, though the soup will be slightly less creamy.
If you prefer a thicker consistency (perfect for dunking crusty bread!), create a simple slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with ¼ cup cold water until smooth. Whisk this into the simmering soup and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flour to thicken the broth. For a gluten-free option, you can use cornstarch instead – just mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water.
Now comes the all-important taste test! Adjust the seasoning as needed – you might want to add another pinch of salt, a grind of black pepper, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. The beauty of this hamburger potato soup recipe is how easily it can be customized to your personal taste preferences.
5. Serving Suggestions
Presentation and accompaniments can elevate your hamburger potato soup from simple to spectacular. Ladle the hot soup into deep bowls and consider these serving ideas:
Bread options: A crusty baguette, garlic bread, or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up every last drop. For something different, try cheddar bay biscuits or pretzel rolls.
Toppings: Set out small bowls of garnishes like shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, sour cream, or chopped fresh parsley. Let everyone customize their bowl.
Side dishes: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast. For heartier appetites, add a grilled cheese sandwich or quesadilla.
Remember that the soup will thicken as it stands, so you may want to have extra warm broth on hand to adjust the consistency if needed before serving.
6. Storage Tips
One of the great advantages of this hamburger potato soup recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Follow these guidelines for best results:
Refrigeration: Cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Freezing: While the soup freezes reasonably well, the dairy components may separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze before adding the milk/cream, then add it fresh when reheating. Frozen soup keeps for 2-3 months.
When storing, consider dividing the soup into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.
7. Variations
The basic hamburger potato soup recipe serves as a wonderful canvas for creativity. Here are some delicious variations to try:
Vegetable additions: Stir in ½ cup each of diced carrots, corn, or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Frozen vegetables work perfectly here.
Protein swaps: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for the beef. For a heartier version, add cooked diced ham or crumbled sausage.
Flavor boosts: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of hot sauce, or a Parmesan rind while simmering for extra umami depth.
Creamy versions: For ultra-creamy soup, blend half of the cooked potatoes before adding the meat, or stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese at the end.
International twists: Give it a Mexican flair with cumin, chili powder, and topped with avocado, or go Italian with basil, oregano, and Parmesan.
8. Nutritional Benefits
Beyond being delicious, this hamburger potato soup offers several nutritional advantages:
Protein-packed: The ground beef provides high-quality protein to keep you satisfied longer.
Vegetable goodness: Potatoes offer vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially if you leave the skins on.
Bone health: The dairy components contribute calcium and vitamin D (if using fortified milk).
Hydration: The broth base helps meet daily fluid needs, especially important in colder months when we tend to drink less water.
For a lighter version, use lean ground beef (or turkey), low-fat milk, and reduce the cheese amount. You can also boost the vegetable content by adding more celery, carrots, or other favorites.
9. Conclusion
This hamburger potato soup recipe represents the very best of home cooking – comforting, adaptable, and deeply satisfying. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and rich flavors make it a perennial favorite that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner solution, a dish to warm up chilly evenings, or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this soup delivers on all fronts.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it invites personalization. After you’ve mastered the basic version, don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. The best family recipes often start with a solid foundation like this one, then evolve through generations of loving preparation and shared meals.
So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking playlist, and prepare to fill your home with the irresistible aromas of simmering hamburger potato soup. One taste of this creamy, hearty creation, and you’ll understand why it’s stood the test of time as a beloved comfort food classic. Happy cooking!
Savor the hearty and comforting flavors of this Hamburger Potato Soup, featuring seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cups beef broth
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add olive oil to the pot along with the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, dried basil, dried parsley, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of ground beef and substitute low-fat milk and cheese.
To add a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
