Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup 🥔🍲🍖
A Hearty, Budget-Friendly Comfort Classic for Chilly Days
Few meals are as comforting as a bowl of hot soup, and Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup sits right at the top of that list. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, seasoned broth, it’s one of those “stick to your ribs” recipes that’s just as good on a busy weeknight as it is simmering on the stove during a lazy Sunday afternoon.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you lighten it up with ground turkey and milk or go all-in with cream and a buttery finish, this soup always delivers on flavor and heartiness. Plus, it uses basic pantry staples, making it perfect for budget-conscious cooks who don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
🥣 One pot wonder – Easy cleanup, easy prep, maximum flavor.
🥔 Hearty and filling – Loaded with potatoes, meat, and creamy broth.
💰 Affordable ingredients – Simple, real food that goes a long way.
🔄 Customizable – Use your preferred protein, milk or cream, and seasonings.
❄️ Freezer-friendly – Great for meal prepping or storing leftovers.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a milder taste)
2 cups milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added richness) 🧀
2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added depth)
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth and color)
Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional) 🌿
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Add salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk (or cream) and flour or cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens.
If you’re adding cheese, stir it in now and let it melt fully into the soup for a silky, cheesy finish.
Step 4: Taste and Finish
Add the optional butter at the end for extra richness and taste-test to adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
With warm crusty bread or rolls – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Top with crumbled bacon or shredded cheese – For extra indulgence.
Pair with a green salad – For a balanced, comforting meal.
Serve in bread bowls – For a cozy, rustic presentation.
Variations to Try
Low-carb version: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
More veggies: Stir in corn, carrots, or peas toward the end of cooking.
Southwest twist: Add a teaspoon of cumin, black beans, and a sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: This soup freezes well, though the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly. Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen it up.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is that dependable, down-home recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s fast enough for weeknights, filling enough for hungry families, and comforting enough to soothe just about any bad day. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to fit your tastes, this soup will warm both bellies and hearts.