Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Introduction
Nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the delicious flavors of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumbled cooked bacon
Steps
Step 1: Cook the ground beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic
In the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add potatoes and broth
Add the diced potatoes and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Make the cheese sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden brown. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine the soup and cheese sauce
Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the cooked potatoes and broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Season and simmer
Add the cooked ground beef, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Ladle the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled cooked bacon. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Veggie Lover’s Delight:
Add your favorite vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, peas, or corn. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the potatoes.
Spicy Kick:
If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapenos or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup. This will give it a spicy kick that complements the cheesy flavors.
Italian Twist:
For an Italian-inspired twist, substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage. You can also add some Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors.
Tips
- For a creamier texture, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food that will warm your soul. With its delicious combination of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a crowd-pleasing recipe for a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. So grab a bowl, cozy up, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. The flavors will still be delicious!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, simply brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a separate pan. Transfer everything to the slow cooker, along with the potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Before serving, make the cheese sauce separately on the stovetop and stir it into the soup in the slow cooker.
Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen potatoes may take longer to become tender.
