Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

 

Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, flavorful broth for a warm and satisfying meal. This soup is easy to make, hearty enough to be a meal on its own, and perfect for cozy nights in. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe!

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Ingredients for Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed for browning)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added richness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Cook Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. If needed, add a tablespoon of olive oil to help with browning.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Drain any excess fat from the pot and set the browned beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Sauté Onion: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes, Carrots, and Broth

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, carrots, chicken broth, thyme, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Return Beef: Add the browned beef back to the pot and stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil.
2. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Make It Creamy: Stir in the milk (or half-and-half) and shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
2. Serve Warm: Enjoy this cozy, creamy soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

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Tips for Making the Best Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well because they break down slightly, making the soup extra creamy.
• For Extra Creaminess: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• Cheese Lovers: Add more shredded cheese for a richer, cheesy flavor.

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Variations on Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

1. Add Veggies: Include corn, green beans, or peas for extra texture and flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced green chilies for a spicy twist.
3. Bacon Topping: Top the soup with crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup pairs well with:

• Crusty Bread: Great for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Crackers: Saltine or oyster crackers make a simple, tasty addition.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 2 months, though it may lose some creaminess. Let it cool before freezing in individual portions.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little extra milk if the soup has thickened too much.

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FAQs

Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?

Yes! This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I Use Different Meat?

Absolutely. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.

How Can I Thicken the Soup?

If you want an even thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes with a fork or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

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This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a deliciously comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of savory flavors. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, it’s a hearty option that the whole family will enjoy!