Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is perfect for those cozy evenings when you want a warm hug in a bowl. It combines the hearty goodness of potatoes with savory ground beef, crisp bacon, and creamy cheese. What could be better than a meal that is rich in flavor, filling, and easy to make? This soup is a favorite for families because it brings everyone together at the table. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to warm up on a cold day. Easy to prepare, this recipe does not take too long, making it a great dish for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

In addition to its satisfying taste, Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is versatile and allows for personal touches. You can adjust the ingredients, swap out the cheese, or even add your favorite vegetables. This means you can easily cater to your family’s tastes. You’ll discover that this soup not only fills bellies but warms hearts, making it an instant classic in many households.

How to Make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

If you’re ready to whip up a batch of Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup, gather your ingredients, and follow these simple steps.

Ingredients

• 4 slices Bacon
• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 medium Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 medium Carrot
• 2 stalks Celery
• 3 medium Potatoes
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Dried Basil
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Whole Milk
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by chopping your bacon into small pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain the excess grease, leaving a bit in the pot for flavor, and set the crispy bacon aside.

2. Brown the Beef: Next, add a pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it turns brown. This usually takes around 5 to 6 minutes. Once it’s browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Now, in the same pot with the bacon grease, add your chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, chopped celery, and cubed potatoes. Cook these ingredients, stirring them occasionally until the onions are soft, approximately 5 minutes. The aroma from the veggies will start to fill your kitchen!

4. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to bloom for about 2 minutes, enhancing the flavors.

5. Make a Roux: Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour into the pot. Stir this in for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This thickening agent will give your soup that creamy texture you’re aiming for.

6. Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble slowly. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Your potatoes will become nice and tender during this time.

7. Combine Everything: After the soup has simmered, stir in the reserved bacon and ground beef. Then, pour in 1 cup of whole milk, stirring as you go. Let the soup continue to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step adds creaminess to the soup while warming up all the flavors.

8. Finishing Touches: Just before you’re ready to serve, add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the soup, creating a beautiful, creamy texture.

Now, your Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Serving Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is straightforward and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls. This method is simple and allows everyone to get an equal portion.
• Toppings: Consider offering some fun toppings such as more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, finely chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream to give your guests options.
• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup hot alongside a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread can soak up the creamy broth, adding a satisfying texture that complements the meal beautifully.
• Salad: Pair the soup with a side salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caesar salad works well alongside the richness of the soup.

How to Store Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

If you have leftovers after enjoying your soup, storing them is easy! Here’s how:

1. Let It Cool: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature after serving.

2. Transfer to Containers: Pour the cooled soup into an airtight container. If you’re using glass containers, make sure they are designed for freezing, as this can prevent breakage.

3. Refrigeration: Store the soup in the fridge if you plan to eat it within the next few days. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days when refrigerated.

4. Freezing: If you want to store it longer, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months.

5. Thawing: To reheat, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

Tips to Make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They will break down nicely and make the soup creamy.

• Cook the Veggies Thoroughly: Make sure to sauté the vegetables long enough to soften them. This adds depth to the overall flavor of the soup.

• Adjust the Thickness: If the soup ends up thicker than you’d like, simply add some additional chicken broth or whole milk and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans to add more nutrition and flavor.

Variation

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is adaptable and allows for various variations:

• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.

• Beef Alternatives: Substitute the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian adaptation.

• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the soup.

• Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end of cooking for a vibrant taste.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup in advance?

Yes! You can make this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and leave a little space for it to expand.

How do I reheat leftover soup?

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s very thick, you may want to add a bit of extra broth or milk.

Can I use instant potatoes for this recipe?

While it’s possible, using fresh potatoes will give you a much better texture and flavor. Instant potatoes may not create the same creamy soup consistency.

Is this soup gluten-free?

If you’re looking to make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

How can I make this soup healthier?

To make the soup healthier, try using lean ground meat, low-fat milk, and increase the amount of vegetables. This will boost the nutritional value without compromising taste.

Now you’re ready to tackle the Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup like a pro! Enjoy making this delightful dish for your family and friends. It’s hearty, comforting, and sure to be a hit!

Print