Hello, soup lovers! Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup combines rich, savory flavors with a creamy texture that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a soul-warming dish. Let’s jump into this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Introduction
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a hearty, delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of tender potatoes, ground beef, and fresh vegetables simmered in a creamy, cheesy broth creates a comforting soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. This soup is versatile and customizable, making it a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a rich and filling meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
To make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.
How to Make Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Follow these simple steps to make this delicious soup:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the frozen corn, frozen peas, and diced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine and continue simmering for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
Pour in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk in small increments until you reach the desired thickness.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness of this hearty soup.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting consistency. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.
- For an extra creamy consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or remove a cup of the soup, blend it, and stir it back in.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture if desired.
Cooking Tips
Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the creamiest texture. Both types hold up well during cooking and create a hearty soup. If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. For a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked potatoes before adding the milk and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal. This soup also pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or extra shredded cheese on top for added indulgence. A side of crackers or tortilla chips makes for a great crunchy accompaniment.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup:
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 740mg
- Potassium: 750mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 25%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 15%
This soup is not only comforting but also provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave on medium power. Add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency if the soup thickens during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup can be made a day ahead and reheated when ready to serve. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.
Can I freeze this soup? Due to the milk and cheese content, this soup may not freeze well, as dairy can separate upon reheating. If you want to freeze it, omit the milk and cheese and add them fresh when reheating.
Can I substitute the ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can be used for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Related Recipes
If you enjoy this soup, try these related recipes:
Conclusion
There you have it—a comforting and delicious Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with hearty flavors. Perfect for cozy nights or satisfying meals, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the warmth and richness of this delightful dish!