“A Hearty and Comforting Soup Packed with Flavor!”

Craving something warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying? This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect blend of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and guaranteed to bring comfort on a cold day!

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

• Rich & Creamy: The cheese-packed broth is indulgent, flavorful, and ultra-satisfying.
• Hearty & Filling: With protein from ground beef, starchy potatoes, and a creamy texture, this soup is a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the savory, cheesy goodness of this dish.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Soup Base Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds heartiness and flavor to the soup.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for lean beef): Helps prevent sticking when sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the savory taste with aromatic richness.
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Yukon Gold for creaminess or Russet for a thicker texture.
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth: Provides a savory liquid base for the soup.
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the broth.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup for a hearty consistency.

Cheese Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor punch.
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty depth to the cheese blend.

Seasonings & Garnishes:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a touch of freshness and subtle flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): For a warm, smoky kick.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Adjust to your preference.
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for brightness.
  • Crumbled bacon for extra savoriness.
  • Extra shredded cheese for indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula.
3. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

Pro Tip: Use lean ground beef to minimize excess fat, or add a tablespoon of olive oil if the meat is very lean to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add olive oil (if needed).
2. Sauté diced onion over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the garlic—it can turn bitter if left on the heat for too long.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes, broth, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Pro Tip: Dice the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

1. In a small bowl, whisk flour into milk or cream until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
2. Gradually pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer the soup for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker consistency, add an extra tablespoon of flour or use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese & Combine

1. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, one handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt fully before adding the next.
2. Return the browned ground beef to the pot and stir to combine.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for the best meltability and to avoid clumping caused by pre-shredded cheese.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of parsley, bacon, or extra cheese.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or crackers.

Pro Tip: Pair this soup with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
• Freezing: This soup isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cheese and cream, which may separate when thawed.

Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

• Cozy Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a warm, filling meal.
• Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a go-to recipe.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies (like carrots or celery) or swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a fun twist.

Pairings:

• Serve this soup alongside garlic bread, buttery biscuits, or crusty French bread for dipping.
• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Enjoy this comforting, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy soup with your loved ones! 🧀🍲