When the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of soup that feeds both the body and soul. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is one of those recipes that takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen—steam rising from the pot, laughter around the table, and the aroma of melted cheese and ground beef wafting through the air.
Inspired by traditional American comfort food, this recipe brings together rustic, homestyle ingredients in the most delicious way. It’s thick, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty potatoes and savory hamburger meat—basically, it’s everything you want on a cold day.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Hearty & Filling: Ground beef and potatoes make this soup a meal in itself.
- Super Creamy: Thanks to the perfect cheese blend and cream, it’s ultra comforting.
- One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and all the flavor.
- Family Approved: Kids and adults both love it!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make 6 hearty servings:
Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Veggies:
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
Liquids:
- 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for deeper flavor)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped parsley
- Crumbled bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, then add diced onions and garlic. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Veggies & Seasoning
Stir in carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to coat the veggies and meat in the seasoning.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the soup simmers, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and stir until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and velvety.
Step 5: Combine & Finish
Once the veggies are tender, pour in the cheese sauce and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Do not boil.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese, bacon, or fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or biscuits for the ultimate winter dinner.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Potatoes: Yukon gold are best for their buttery texture, but russet or red potatoes also work.
- Cheese: Stick to sharp cheddar for bold flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can clump, so shred it fresh if possible.
- Make it Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the cheese sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store: Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: This soup freezes well, but the dairy can slightly separate. Reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
Reheat: Warm over medium heat, stirring gently. Microwave on 70% power in short bursts, stirring in between.
What to Serve With Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Crusty garlic bread
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted brussels sprouts
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes it a bit lighter and still delicious.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except the cheese sauce) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stir in cheese sauce at the end.
Is this kid-friendly?
Totally. Creamy, cheesy, and familiar flavors make it a hit with the little ones.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a new winter staple or something heartwarming for Sunday dinner, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup has it all. Rich, cheesy, and ultra-comforting, it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket from the inside out.