When you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s both simple and satisfying, Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect choice. This delicious soup combines the savory flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, seasoned broth. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights, cold winter evenings, or anytime you need a bowl of comfort food to lift your spirits.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make the best Hamburger Potato Soup with easy-to-follow steps. Additionally, we’ll provide helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make your meal even more delightful. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Soup
Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become one of your favorites:
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables makes this a complete meal in a bowl.
- Easy to Prepare: It comes together quickly with common pantry ingredients.
- Comforting Flavor: The savory, creamy broth paired with tender potatoes is pure comfort.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this satisfying soup.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients, making it a great meal for families.
If you love hearty soups, you might also enjoy this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup for another comforting option.
Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- Crumbled bacon (for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
- Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the dried thyme and parsley.
- Bring the soup to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour the mixture into the soup while stirring constantly.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
5. Add the Ground Beef Back
- Return the browned ground beef to the pot and stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Soup
- Use Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: These varieties hold their shape well and create a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer just until the potatoes are tender to avoid mushiness.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add peas, green beans, or corn for more color and nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- For a Creamier Soup: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, creamier broth.
If you’re looking for another rich and satisfying dish, try this Hearty Irish Stew for a meal that warms you up from the inside out.
️ Serving Suggestions
Hamburger Potato Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or Homemade Light Brioche Buns for dipping.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad like this Fresh and Simple Italian Garden Salad adds a refreshing contrast.
- Biscuits: Enjoy with warm, flaky biscuits for a classic comfort meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- You can also microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Delicious Variations for Hamburger Potato Soup
One of the best things about Hamburger Potato Soup is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some tasty variations to try:
1. Cheeseburger Potato Soup
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking. This gives the soup a rich, cheesy flavor reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.
- Top with crisp bacon bits and chopped pickles for extra burger-inspired flair.
2. Bacon and Potato Soup
- Add 6 strips of crispy bacon, chopped, to the soup for a smoky, savory twist.
- Use the bacon grease to sauté the onions and vegetables for even more flavor.
3. Loaded Potato Soup
- Add your favorite baked potato toppings, such as sour cream, green onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
- This turns your soup into a loaded baked potato in a bowl!
4. Spicy Hamburger Potato Soup
- For some heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
5. Vegetable-Packed Soup
- Add extra vegetables like peas, green beans, corn, or spinach for a nutrient boost.
- This variation is perfect for sneaking in more veggies for picky eaters.
6. Creamy Mushroom Hamburger Soup
- Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the soup while sautéing the vegetables.
- For a richer taste, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end.
Meal Prep Tips for Hamburger Potato Soup
This soup is a fantastic option for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Here are some meal prep tips to make your week easier:
- Double the Batch:
- Make a large pot and freeze half for future meals. You’ll always have a warm, hearty meal ready to go.
- Portion it Out:
- Divide the soup into individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches. Label them with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheat with Ease:
- When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Add Fresh Garnishes:
- Top each serving with fresh herbs, cheese, or bacon bits just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
For more meal prep ideas, check out this guide to Perfect Homemade Sandwich Bread — ideal for pairing with your soup!
Flavor Boosters for Hamburger Potato Soup
Sometimes, a few extra ingredients can elevate your soup to the next level. Here are some flavor boosters you can add:
- Worcestershire Sauce:
- Just a tablespoon adds a rich, umami flavor that complements the beef.
- Garlic Powder or Onion Powder:
- Enhance the savory depth of your soup with a teaspoon of either seasoning.
- Smoked Paprika:
- Adds a subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with the beef and potatoes.
- Fresh Herbs:
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or chives at the end brings brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Crumbled Blue Cheese:
- For a gourmet twist, top your soup with a bit of blue cheese. It adds a tangy contrast to the creamy broth.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
To create a well-rounded meal, pair Hamburger Potato Soup with the following:
- Bread:
Serve with a warm slice of Homemade Light Brioche Buns or crusty garlic bread. - Salad:
A light salad, like this Fresh and Simple Italian Garden Salad, balances the richness of the soup. - Dessert:
Finish your meal with a sweet treat like Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Bread for a comforting end to your dinner.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Instant Potatoes to Thicken the Soup?
Yes! Adding a small amount of instant mashed potato flakes can thicken the soup quickly and easily.
2. What’s the Best Ground Meat for This Soup?
Ground beef is classic, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile.
3. How Do I Prevent My Potatoes from Getting Mushy?
Be careful not to overcook the potatoes. Simmer just until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
4. Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use cornstarch to thicken the soup.
Conclusion
Hamburger Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving a bowl of something warm and satisfying, this soup delivers on all fronts. The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth makes it an instant favorite.
Don’t forget to try some of the variations and serving suggestions to keep things exciting. For more cozy meal ideas, explore this Hearty Irish Stew or pair your soup with Homemade Light Brioche Buns for a complete comfort meal.
✨ Happy Cooking, and Enjoy Your Bowl of Hamburger Potato Soup!