Classic Hamburger And Potato Soup Recipe

If there’s one dish that combines comfort, flavor, and the ability to please a crowd, it’s the classic hamburger and potato soup. Picture this: a hearty bowl filled with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of seasonings that come together in a cozy, creamy broth. The beauty of this soup is that it has all the familiar, satisfying elements of a classic burger but with the added bonus of being served in a bowl, making it perfect for colder weather or any time you need a soul-warming meal.

This recipe blends two beloved comfort foods-hamburgers and potato soup-into one delightful creation that’s easy to prepare, yet so comforting it feels like a special treat. Whether you’re looking to whip up something quick for dinner or want a filling meal that can last for multiple servings, this soup is a winner every time. Let’s break it down step by step and explore what makes this dish so incredible!

Classic Hamburger And Potato Soup Recipe

A hearty, savory, and incredibly satisfying soup, the classic hamburger and potato soup brings together the best parts of a hamburger with the creamy richness of potato soup. It’s flavorful, simple, and filling, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, comforting hamburger and potato soup:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): This is the main protein of the soup, giving it that rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the creamy broth.
• Russet Potatoes (4 medium): Russets are ideal because they break down nicely in soup, adding a velvety texture without being mushy.
• Onion (1 medium): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
• Garlic (2 cloves): For that extra aromatic depth and a little kick.
• Carrot (1 large): A subtle, natural sweetness that balances the savory beef and potatoes.
• Celery (2 stalks): Adds a little crunch and freshness that complements the soup’s creamy base.
• Beef Broth (4 cups): This will be the base of your soup, providing a deep, meaty flavor.
• Milk (2 cups): This adds creaminess and richness to the broth.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Optional, but it makes the soup even creamier and more luxurious.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): For melting on top or stirring in to give that cheeseburger feel.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring this soup to life:

1. Brown The Ground Beef

   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Drain any excess grease, but leave a bit for flavor.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.

3. Cook The Potatoes

   • Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and stir everything together. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender but not falling apart.

4. Add The Milk And Cream

   • Pour in the milk and heavy cream (if using) and stir well. Let the soup simmer on low for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The soup should thicken slightly.

5. Season

   • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the soup, making it wonderfully creamy.

6. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with some crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Ingredient Insights

Here’s a deeper dive into the ingredients that make this soup truly special:

• Ground Beef: The star of the dish, ground beef provides richness and protein. Using lean beef will help reduce fat, but a bit of fat in the beef is actually great for the flavor of the soup.
• Potatoes: Potatoes like Russets are best because they have a higher starch content, which helps thicken the soup as they cook. Their mild flavor also allows them to soak up the seasonings in the broth without overpowering the dish.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: A perfect combination for creating a rich and creamy texture. The milk provides some lightness while the heavy cream elevates the richness. You can adjust this balance based on your preference for creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar cheese pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef and the creamy potatoes. It also gives that ’burger vibe’ to the soup, making it reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger.
• Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper are often enough, but feel free to add a little garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added flavor depth.

Expert Tips

• For Creamier Soup: If you like your soup extra creamy, use a hand blender to lightly blend a portion of the soup. This will thicken it up without losing the texture of the potatoes and beef.
• Use Bone Broth: Swap regular beef broth for bone broth for an added richness and a more nutritious boost. Bone broth has more collagen and minerals, giving the soup a deeper flavor.
• Adjust the Vegetables: If you’re not a fan of certain vegetables like carrots or celery, feel free to substitute them. Leeks, parsnips, or even a little zucchini could work just as well.
• Make it Spicy: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice things up. You can also top the soup with some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Save Time: To speed up the cooking process, use pre-cooked or leftover beef (like from a burger night) and add it into the soup once the potatoes are tender.

Recipe Variations

While the classic version of hamburger and potato soup is a winner, there are plenty of fun variations you can try:

• Cheeseburger Soup: Stir in more cheese-like mozzarella or Swiss-and top with pickles to create a cheeseburger-style soup.
• Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add cooked, crumbled bacon into the soup for a smoky, crispy flavor that’ll remind you of a bacon burger.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. This way, you can still enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture while keeping it vegetarian or vegan.
• Spicy Taco Soup: Season the soup with taco seasoning and add in some black beans and corn. Serve with crushed tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream for a Southwestern twist.

Final Words

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a rich, hearty soup. This hamburger and potato soup combines all the elements of a satisfying meal in one bowl-ground beef, tender potatoes, a creamy broth, and plenty of cheese. It’s a great go-to for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a filling dish to serve a crowd.

The best part is how versatile the recipe is. You can tweak the ingredients, experiment with flavors, or make it as rich or light as you want. You’ll always have something satisfying and comforting to serve that’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.