Hamburger and Potato Soup Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious, and comforting soup, look no further than this Hamburger and Potato Soup. This classic recipe combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and flavorful vegetables, creating a bowl of creamy, soul-soothing goodness. Perfect for a cold winter night, a family dinner, or a quick weeknight meal!

What is Hamburger and Potato Soup?

Hamburger and potato soup is a simple, one-pot meal made with ground beef, diced potatoes, and various seasonings. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It can also be customized easily, making it a versatile choice for any home cook.

This soup is not only affordable but also nutritious, providing essential protein, vitamins, and carbs to keep you full and energized.

Ingredients for Hamburger and Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Main Ingredients:

1 pound of ground beef
4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium-sized carrots, diced
2 stalks of celery, chopped
4 cups chicken or beef broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream (for creaminess)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works best)
1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1 cup corn or peas for extra veggies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Hamburger

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces as it cooks.
Cook until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter or add a splash of olive oil.

Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender.
Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.

3. Combine the Ingredients

Once the veggies are tender:

Add the cooked ground beef back to the pot.
Stir in the diced potatoes and sprinkle the flour evenly over everything.
Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flour absorb into the mixture.

4. Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly to combine.

Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are soft and tender.

5. Add Creaminess

Once the potatoes are cooked:

Stir in the milk or heavy cream.
Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
For a cheesy twist, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley or additional cheese, and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour.
One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes and less clean-up.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples.
Comfort Food: A warm, filling meal perfect for the whole family.

Whether you’re serving this with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad, Hamburger and Potato Soup hits all the right notes.

Variations to Try

Want to customize your soup? Here are some creative ideas:

Cheeseburger Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and a tablespoon of mustard for a cheeseburger-inspired soup.
Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, kale, or frozen veggies for extra nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adjust based on your dietary needs or preferences.

Tips for the Perfect Hamburger and Potato Soup

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for a softer texture or Yukon Gold for a creamier consistency.
Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer until just fork-tender to avoid mushiness.
Thicken It Up: For an extra-thick soup, mash a portion of the potatoes before adding cream.
Use Fresh or Frozen Veggies: Frozen carrots, peas, or corn are great time-savers.
Make Ahead: This soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!

Storing and Reheating

To Store: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Freeze: Skip the cream and cheese if planning to freeze. Add them when reheating for the best results.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.

Nutritional Benefits of Hamburger and Potato Soup

Protein-Packed: The ground beef provides ample protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Rich in Fiber: Potatoes and veggies add fiber for digestive health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Loaded with vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

For a healthier version, opt for lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.

Creative Variations for Hamburger and Potato Soup

The beauty of Hamburger and Potato Soup lies in its versatility. By switching up ingredients and seasonings, you can transform this classic recipe into exciting new versions:

1. Creamy Bacon Cheeseburger Soup

Add all the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger into your soup:

Cook 5-6 slices of bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a tablespoon of yellow mustard to the soup base for a cheeseburger tang.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of cheese.

2. Low-Carb Cauliflower Hamburger Soup

For a keto-friendly version, replace the potatoes with cauliflower.

Use 4 cups of chopped cauliflower florets in place of diced potatoes.
Simmer the soup as usual, and mash some of the cauliflower to create creaminess.
Add heavy cream and a touch of cream cheese for extra richness.

3. Mexican-Style Hamburger and Potato Soup

Bring bold, zesty flavors to your soup with a Mexican twist:

Add a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies for some heat.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder.
Replace cheddar with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and diced avocado.

4. Italian-Style Hamburger and Potato Soup

Add a hearty, Italian-inspired flavor to your soup:

Mix in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Replace cheddar with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Add 1 can of diced tomatoes and 2 cups of chopped spinach for a nutritious twist.

5. Dairy-Free Hamburger Soup

For those avoiding dairy, you can create a creamy texture without milk or cheese:

Replace cream with unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream.
Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Thicken the soup with a mix of mashed potatoes or blended white beans.

How to Make This Recipe in the Instant Pot

If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot is your best friend. Here’s how to prepare Hamburger and Potato Soup quickly:

Ingredients:

Use the same ingredients as the classic recipe.

Steps:

Sauté Mode: Turn the Instant Pot to sauté. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add seasonings, followed by the broth.
Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to Manual or Pressure Cook for 10 minutes.
Quick Release: Once done, perform a quick release of pressure.
Add Creaminess: Turn the Instant Pot back to sauté. Stir in the milk or cream and cheese, if using, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.

Why Use an Instant Pot?

Saves time (ready in 30 minutes).
Enhances flavor by sealing in all the juices.
Perfect for busy weeknights!

Perfect Pairings for Hamburger and Potato Soup

A hearty soup like this pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

1. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Freshly baked bread is ideal for soaking up the creamy broth. Try:

Warm French baguette
Garlic bread with butter and herbs
Soft, homemade dinner rolls

2. Side Salads

Balance the richness of the soup with a light, refreshing salad:

A crisp Caesar salad with homemade dressing
Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette
Kale and cranberry salad with a citrus dressing

3. Roasted Vegetables

Add more veggies to your plate:

Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus with olive oil and garlic
Balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

What’s better than pairing a warm soup with a grilled cheese sandwich? Use sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella for melty perfection.

Nutritional Benefits Breakdown

Hamburger and potato soup is more than just comfort food; it offers several key nutrients:

Protein

Ground beef provides essential protein to support muscle health and energy levels.
Opt for lean beef (90/10) to reduce saturated fat.

Carbohydrates

Potatoes offer a healthy source of complex carbs, keeping you full for longer.
Potatoes are also packed with potassium, which helps balance electrolytes.

Vitamins and Minerals

Carrots and celery provide vitamins A and C for immunity and eye health.
The broth adds essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

Dairy for Calcium

If you add milk or cheese, it boosts calcium for bone health.

Healthy Fats

Adding butter, olive oil, or coconut milk provides healthy fats for energy.

How to Double the Recipe for Meal Prep

If you’re cooking for a large group or prepping meals ahead, here’s how to double the recipe:

Use a larger pot (at least 8 quarts) to accommodate all ingredients.
Brown the ground beef in batches to ensure even cooking.
Adjust seasonings proportionally. For example, double the salt, pepper, and spices.
Store leftovers in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Tip: Soups like this freeze well, making it a perfect option for meal prepping!

How to Thicken the Soup

If your soup turns out too thin, try these tricks to thicken it:

Flour or Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water. Stir it into the soup and simmer for 5 minutes.
Mashed Potatoes: Mash a portion of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot.
Cream Cheese: Add a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
Blended Veggies: Puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender for natural thickness.

How to Add More Flavor

If your soup feels bland, here are some quick fixes:

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami flavor.
A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for spice.
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil can brighten up the dish.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance all the flavors.

Leftover Ideas for Hamburger and Potato Soup

Turn leftovers into entirely new meals:

Shepherd’s Pie: Use the thickened soup as a base, top with mashed potatoes, and bake.
Casserole: Mix the soup with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
Loaded Baked Potatoes: Pour leftover soup over baked potatoes, and top with cheese and bacon.

Advanced Tips for Perfect Hamburger and Potato Soup

1. Building Deep Flavors

To achieve restaurant-quality flavors in your soup, focus on layering and enhancing ingredients:

Sear the Meat Properly: When browning the ground beef, don’t just cook it—allow it to sear and develop a golden brown crust. This caramelization adds depth to the overall flavor.
Deglaze the Pot: After cooking the beef, use a splash of beef broth or a tablespoon of red wine to deglaze the bottom of the pot. This will lift all those tasty brown bits and infuse them into the broth.
Roast the Vegetables: For an extra smoky flavor, roast the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery in the oven for 15 minutes at 400°F before adding them to the soup.

2. Using the Right Equipment

The right tools can simplify the process and elevate the results:

Dutch Oven: A heavy-duty Dutch oven retains heat and evenly cooks the soup, resulting in a creamy, consistent texture.
Immersion Blender: If you prefer a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup without dirtying extra dishes.
Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: If you’re multitasking, these appliances make it easy to prepare the soup hands-free while achieving great flavor.

3. Elevating the Garnishes

The garnish can make a big difference in presentation and taste. Try these ideas:

Shredded Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan adds depth.
Crispy Bacon: Sprinkle freshly cooked bacon bits for texture and smokiness.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or green onions provide a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top balances the richness of the broth.
Croutons or Crackers: Homemade croutons or crushed butter crackers add a satisfying crunch.

Special Occasion Serving Ideas

Whether hosting guests or creating a themed family dinner, Hamburger and Potato Soup can shine with a few special touches:

1. Soup and Breadboard

Pair the soup with a stunning breadboard filled with an assortment of options:

Warm sourdough bread slices
Garlic knots with herbs
Buttermilk biscuits
Cheese-stuffed rolls

Serve it on a rustic wooden board for a cozy presentation that’s perfect for gatherings.

2. Soup in a Bread Bowl

For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. Use:

Sourdough loaves
Ciabatta bread

Simply cut the top, remove the center, and toast the bowl lightly before filling it with the hot soup.

3. Soup Bar for Parties

Set up a Soup Bar for your guests with toppings and sides. Offer:

Toppings: Shredded cheese, bacon, sour cream, chives, and hot sauce.
Sides: Fresh bread, crackers, and roasted vegetables.

Let guests build their own custom bowls for a fun and interactive meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Soup

If you’re aiming to make this soup healthier or accommodate specific dietary needs, consider these swaps:

1. Use Leaner Protein

Substitute regular ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or plant-based alternatives.

2. Lighten the Creaminess

Replace heavy cream with low-fat milk, evaporated milk, or unsweetened almond milk.
Use Greek yogurt as a thickener for added protein and fewer calories.

3. Add More Veggies

Boost the nutrient content by incorporating:

Zucchini, spinach, or kale
Green beans, peas, or corn

4. Go Low-Sodium

Use low-sodium broth and skip added salt where possible.
Season with herbs and spices like garlic powder, thyme, or paprika for flavor without sodium.

5. Gluten-Free Adjustments

Replace flour with cornstarch or use naturally thick potatoes as a binder.
Opt for gluten-free bread or crackers as a side.

How to Meal Prep Hamburger and Potato Soup

This soup is perfect for meal prepping since it reheats beautifully. Follow these steps:

Prepare in Bulk: Double or triple the recipe.
Portion It Out: Divide the soup into individual airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Label and Freeze: Write the date on each container. The soup stays fresh in the refrigerator for 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tip: Leave out cream and cheese when freezing; add them during reheating for the best consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Draining the Ground Beef: Excess fat can make the soup greasy. Always drain the beef after browning.
Overcooking the Potatoes: Cook just until fork-tender to avoid a mushy texture.
Skipping the Seasoning: Proper seasoning (salt, pepper, herbs) is key to balancing flavors. Taste and adjust before serving.
Adding Dairy Too Early: Wait until the soup has simmered and slightly cooled to add milk or cream to prevent curdling.