This creamy hamburger potato soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. With lovely chunks of potato and juicy hamburger mixed with a rich, creamy broth, it’s super comforting!
Making this soup is a breeze. Just toss everything together, let it cook, and you’ll have a tasty meal in no time! I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef to keep it a bit lighter, but feel free to swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. You can also use plant-based meat if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for their creamy texture when cooked. If you want something different, try Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor, or use sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter alternative, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the soup won’t be as rich. Coconut milk is also a good dairy-free option that adds creaminess without the dairy!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp Cheddar adds great flavor. If you want to mix it up, Monterey Jack or Colby can be nice substitutes. You can also use a Vegan cheese if you’re going dairy-free.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a fantastic healthy swap for sour cream. I’ve used it many times, and it gives a nice tangy flavor while adding protein.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has the Right Texture and Flavor?
Getting the right texture in your creamy soup is all about layering flavors. Start with sautéing onions and garlic, which sets a tasty base. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Cook onions and garlic until tender but not burnt; this caramelizes their natural sugars.
- Make sure to break down the ground beef well as it cooks; this helps distribute the flavor evenly.
- Add the diced potatoes and broth, and bring to a boil to cook the potatoes through quickly.
- Let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in the creams and cheese at the end for a velvety finish, allowing the soup to simmer only briefly to meld the flavors.
Finally, topping with green onions and parsley brings freshness that truly brightens the dish! Enjoy making this comforting soup!
How to Make Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish:
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have a warm and hearty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step adds a delicious base flavor to your soup!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off to keep your soup lighter.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now, it’s time to mix in the diced potatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Allow the potatoes to cook until they’re tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—nobody likes undercooked potatoes!
4. Stir in Cream and Sour Cream:
Once the potatoes are nice and soft, stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step makes your soup rich and creamy!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until it melts into the soup, creating a smooth and cheesy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. You want it to be just right!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Your delicious soup is ready to be served! Spoon it into bowls and top with sliced green onions and extra cheese for a nice touch. Optional: sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added flavor and color. Enjoy your creamy Hamburger Potato Soup hot!
## FAQ Section for Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Just be aware that turkey may require a little more seasoning, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly. You might also want to add a bit more olive oil since these meats tend to be leaner.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. For every cup of heavy cream, use ¾ cup milk combined with ¼ cup melted butter. This will give you a similar creaminess without being overly rich.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a little beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency when reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, corn, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the potatoes so they can cook through in the same time. This is a great way to customize the soup to your taste!
