This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy meal—rich, creamy, and comforting. Packed with savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, and loads of melty cheddar cheese, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you’re craving a filling, delicious bowl of warmth. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner with your family or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Easy to make, yet incredibly satisfying, this soup is everything you want in a cozy meal. Let’s dive into the full recipe with all the details!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. - Add Potatoes and Beef Broth:
Stir in the diced potatoes, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Incorporate Milk and Cheese:
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the whole milk. Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. - Season to Taste:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to add a little extra cheese for an even cheesier soup! - Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits. Serve with a slice of warm bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
History:
This type of “cheesy” soup, often made with ground beef and potatoes, is a beloved comfort food in American kitchens. While variations of the dish have existed for centuries, this creamy and cheesy version became especially popular in the 20th century, when convenience foods and dairy products like processed cheese became staples in home cooking. Many people recall making this hearty dish during the colder months, as it’s both affordable and filling, perfect for feeding a family.
Benefits:
- Protein-packed: The ground beef and cheese provide a good source of protein, helping with muscle repair and growth.
- Hearty and filling: Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy and helping you feel full longer.
- Comfort food: This warm, cheesy soup is perfect for boosting your mood and satisfying those cravings for something rich and comforting.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach to increase the nutrient value or make it more colorful
This hearty soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several nutritional and emotional benefits. Let’s break it down:
1. High in Protein
- The ground beef and cheddar cheese provide an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting immune function.
2. Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
- Potatoes are packed with complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy, making this soup a filling meal option.
- Carbohydrates in this dish help maintain blood sugar levels, which is crucial for energy throughout the day.
3. Rich in Calcium and Vitamins
- The milk and cheese are loaded with calcium, which supports bone health and strengthens teeth.
- Potatoes contribute essential vitamins like Vitamin C and B6, promoting immune health and brain function.
- Onions and garlic contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support heart health.
4. Comfort for the Soul
- Creamy, cheesy soups are known to be comfort foods, helping to reduce stress and boost mood. The warmth and richness make this dish perfect for days when you need emotional comfort.
5. Versatility for Added Nutrients
- This soup can easily be customized by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach, which boost the fiber and vitamin content without compromising flavor.
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use dairy-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
6. Affordable and Filling
- Made with basic pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, and cheese, this soup is budget-friendly.
- Its hearty nature ensures that even a small portion leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
7. Suitable for Meal Prep
- The soup can be made in advance and reheated without losing flavor or texture, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal planning.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a delicious comfort food—it’s a meal that nourishes your body and soul. Packed with nutrients, energy, and flavor, it’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your dietary needs while keeping you warm and satisfied. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this soup delivers a blend of health and happiness in every spoonful
Formation:
This soup is essentially a one-pot wonder. Start by cooking the beef and aromatics (onions and garlic) to build a rich base flavor. Then, the potatoes and beef broth bring in the heartiness of the soup, while milk and cheese contribute a creamy, indulgent texture. The combination of these elements creates a well-balanced dish that’s savory, filling, and oh-so-satisfying.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
(Serves 6–8; approximate values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
- Calories: 400–450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3–4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 20–22g
- Saturated Fat: 10–12g
- Cholesterol: 75–90mg
- Sodium: 800–950mg
- Calcium: 25–30% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 15–20% of the DV
- Potassium: 800–900mg
- Protein-Rich: With 25g of protein, this soup supports muscle repair and growth.
- Energy-Packed Carbs: The potatoes provide slow-digesting carbohydrates, ensuring lasting energy.
- Rich in Calcium: Cheese and milk offer significant calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and iron for overall health.
- Moderate Fat Content: The fats from the cheese and beef add richness but can be adjusted with leaner ingredients or low-fat dairy options.
Tip: If you’d like to reduce the calorie count, consider using ground turkey instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and almond milk instead of whole milk. To increase fiber, toss in a handful of spinach or kale before serving!
Conclusion:
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that’s both rich in flavor and easy to prepare. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and transforms them into something incredibly delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or feeding a crowd, this soup is sure to be a favorite for everyone at the table. Serve it with love, and enjoy the comfort that only a bowl of cheesy goodness can bring!
For the Lovers:
If you love hearty, cheesy soups or are just in the mood for something deliciously warming, this recipe will become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s perfect for those days when you need a bowl of comfort food to chase away the chill, and the rich combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese is simply irresistible. So, grab a spoon and dive into this cheesy, comforting bowl of happiness!