Name: Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup: Your Ultimate Comfort Upgrade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Bacon (Adds a smoky flavor and richness to the soup; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.); 1 lb Ground Beef (Provides protein and a savory base; lean ground beef or ground turkey can be used for a healthier variant.); 1 medium Onion (Offers depth and sweetness when sautéed; shallots make a nice substitute for a more delicate flavor.); 2 cloves Garlic (Enhances the soup's aroma and taste; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.); 1 medium Carrot (Adds sweetness and vibrant color; swap for sweet potatoes to change the flavor profile.); 2 stalks Celery (Provides a crunchy texture; omit or substitute with extra carrot if not available.); 3 medium Potatoes (Acts as the heart of the soup; Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well, or use sweet potatoes for a twist.); 1 tsp Salt (Essential seasoning that boosts flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Essential seasoning that boosts flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.); 1 tsp Dried Basil (Adds herbal notes; substituting with fresh basil gives a fresher flavor punch.); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the soup for a creamy texture; cornstarch is a great alternative for a gluten-free option.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Acts as the liquid base; vegetable broth can provide a vegetarian-friendly choice.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Contributes to the creaminess; half-and-half adds richness, while almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Provides creaminess and depth; consider using Monterey Jack or vegan cheese alternatives for variety.)

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There’s a certain warmth that envelops you when you step into a kitchen filled with the aroma of a simmering soup on a chilly evening. As the rich scent of Easy Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup wafts through the air, it’s hard not to feel comforted, almost as if you’re being wrapped in a cozy blanket. This delightful soup is packed with hearty ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy goodness, making it an irresistible option for busy weeknights or a relaxed Sunday dinner.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a lighter touch with ground turkey or want to spice things up with an extra dash of crushed red pepper flakes, this soup encourages creativity. Ready in under an hour, it’s the perfect solution for those evenings you crave something hearty yet quick to prepare. So grab your pot and let’s transform simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that everyone at the table will love!

Why is Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup a must-try?

Hearty Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this soup to chase away the chill of an evening.

Quick to Prepare: With a total cooking time of under an hour, it’s a delightful solution for busy weeknights.

Customizable Version: Easily swap ingredients to suit personal preferences or dietary needs. Want it dairy-free? Use almond milk and omit cheese!

Savory and Satisfying: Filled with ground beef, veggies, and creamy goodness, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s great for leftovers—simply store in the fridge or freeze for a delicious meal later. For more options on how to build a comforting dinner, check out our tips on meal prep ideas.

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and richness to the soup; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Ground Beef – Provides protein and a savory base; lean ground beef or ground turkey can be used for a healthier variant.
• Onion – Offers depth and sweetness when sautéed; shallots make a nice substitute for a more delicate flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the soup’s aroma and taste; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; swap for sweet potatoes to change the flavor profile.
• Celery – Provides a crunchy texture; omit or substitute with extra carrot if not available.
• Potatoes – Acts as the heart of the soup; Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well, or use sweet potatoes for a twist.

For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that boost flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Dried Basil – Adds herbal notes; substituting with fresh basil gives a fresher flavor punch.

For Thickening
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup for a creamy texture; cornstarch is a great alternative for a gluten-free option.

For the Liquid
• Chicken Broth – Acts as the liquid base; vegetable broth can provide a vegetarian-friendly choice.
• Whole Milk – Contributes to the creaminess; half-and-half adds richness, while almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.

For Topping
• Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and depth; consider using Monterey Jack or vegan cheese alternatives for variety.

This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup will surely become a family favorite, bringing warmth and comfort with every delicious spoonful!

How to Make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease and set aside to retain its delicious flavor.
Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, roughly 5-6 minutes. Remove and keep aside, ensuring all those savory flavors stay intact.
Sauté the veggies: Toss in onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Sauté until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, bringing life and color to the mixture.
Season the mix: Stir in salt, pepper, and dried basil, allowing them to bloom for 2 minutes to enhance the aroma and flavor, creating a comforting base.
Make a roux: Sprinkle flour into the mixture and stir continuously for 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup beautifully.
Add the broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer for 20 minutes. Watch for thickening and fork-tender potatoes, allowing those flavors to meld.
Combine ingredients: Stir in bacon and beef, mixing them well. Then, add whole milk and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, achieving that creamy goodness everyone craves.
Melt the cheese: Just before serving, add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted, creating a gooey topping that elevates your soup to the next level.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop your vegetables (onions, carrots, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can precook the bacon and beef, allowing you to simply reheat them when you’re ready to combine everything. The soup itself can be fully prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving; just be sure to add the cheese during the final simmer to maintain its creamy texture. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to achieve a smooth consistency. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your creamy potato hamburger soup fresh and tasty for your next meal.
Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much during storage.

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Variations

Get ready to personalize your delicious creamy potato hamburger soup with these simple tweaks!

Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond milk and omit cheese for a delightful dairy-free option. It maintains creaminess while catering to dietary needs.
Lean Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken. This alteration not only reduces fat but also keeps the soup equally satisfying and tasty.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or corn for a pop of color and added nutrients. These little gems boost both texture and flavor in this hearty dish.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauté mix. This fiery twist can elevate comfort food to new flavor heights, perfect for spice lovers!
Cheesy Alternatives: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy experience. They bring unique flavors and creamy textures, jazzing up your soup.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for an extra hint of sweetness and vibrant color. This switch creates a subtly sweet flavor profile that complements the savory meat.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh parsley or cilantro as a finishing touch. A sprinkle right before serving adds freshness and a hint of brightness that elevates every bowl.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich broth. This spice is like a hug in a bowl, enhancing your comforting experience.

What to Serve with Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup?

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of this comforting dish to start a delightful meal.

Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to dip into the soup, allowing you to savor every rich bite.
Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the creamy texture of the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: These savory, buttery sticks are a crowd-pleaser, inviting you to enjoy the flavors of the soup even more.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a lovely pop of color and a nutritious side to accompany every hearty spoonful.
Warm Apple Crisp: A sweet ending to the meal, this dessert complements the savory notes of the soup with its fragrant spices and warm, gooey apples.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Chardonnay enhances the soup’s creaminess, making every sip of your meal just a bit more extraordinary.
Cheesy Nachos: For a fun twist, serve alongside cheesy nachos topped with jalapeños for an exciting flavor explosion!
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring more flavor and texture to your plate, making this a wholesome family feast.
Biscuit or Scone: Soft, fluffy biscuits are great for scooping up that creamy goodness while adding a touch of comfort.

Expert Tips for Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Sautéing Success: Make sure to sauté the vegetables until the onions are translucent—this enhances the overall flavor of your creamy potato hamburger soup.
Adjust Consistency: If your soup turns out too thick, gradually add more chicken broth or milk while stirring until you reach your desired texture.
Fresh Herbs: For a pop of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving your soup.
Flavor Boost: To avoid a bland soup, taste and adjust the salt and pepper as you go. This ensures that every spoonful is savory and satisfying.
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar gives excellent flavor, but a sprinkle of Monterey Jack can add a creamy twist!

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for this soup?
For the Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best due to their creaminess and ability to hold their shape. If you prefer, you can also use sweet potatoes for a subtly different flavor profile.

How long can I store leftover soup in the fridge?
Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool down before sealing it to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Portion your soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk as needed to restore creaminess.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup too thick after cooking, don’t worry! Gradually add more chicken broth or whole milk while stirring over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help you reclaim that perfect creamy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can customize the Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup to fit your needs. Opt for turkey bacon and ground turkey for a leaner option. Substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version, and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken, if necessary. Always check labels for allergens if you are cooking for someone with food sensitivities.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this soup ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week. Prepare it fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze portions for later. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop for delicious comfort food in a flash.