What if you could enjoy a comforting bowl of Hamburger Potato Soup that’s not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrition—without spending hours in the kitchen? While many believe soup recipes are either quick or hearty—not both—this Hamburger Potato Soup defies expectations. Ready in under 90 minutes and loaded with lean beef, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s a weeknight dinner hero that satisfies cravings and fuels your body.
Let’s dive into how this recipe brings together classic comfort food with modern nutritional wisdom.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hamburger Potato Soup :
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based alternative)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Carrots or celery for extra veggies
- Diced tomatoes for a tangy twist
- Bacon bits for added crunch
Substitutions:
- Use turkey mince instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich twist.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese and unsweetened almond milk.
Each ingredient is chosen to balance heartiness with health, ensuring every spoonful of your Hamburger Potato Soup delivers satisfaction and sustenance.
Timing
- Total Time: 85–90 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
This Hamburger Potato Soup comes together faster than most homemade soups—saving you about 20% more time compared to traditional slow-cooked versions. The one-pot method minimizes cleanup and maximizes convenience, making it ideal for busy evenings or meal prep Sundays.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat before proceeding.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip draining the fat—it helps reduce saturated fats while keeping the flavor intact.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add onions and garlic to the pot. Cook until aromatic and mellow, 3 to 4 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: Stir often to improve flavor development and avoid scorching.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Bring to a boil after adding the chicken broth. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
💡 Pro Tip: Check potatoes with a fork to ensure they’re fully cooked before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Blend or Leave Chunky
Partially mix the soup in an immersion blender for a creamier texture. Or, for a more rustic look, keep it chunky.
💡 Pro Tip: Partial blending adds body without losing texture—a perfect middle ground!
Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. To avoid curdling, do not boil at this point.
💡 Pro Tip: Add cheese gradually for a silky finish.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Season with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
A single serving (about 1.5 cups) of this Hamburger Potato Soup contains approximately:
- Calories : 320 kcal
- Protein : 18g
- Fat : 12g
- Carbohydrates : 32g
- Fiber : 3g
- Sugars : 4g
This recipe offers a balanced macronutrient profile, thanks to lean beef (a great source of iron and protein), complex carbs from potatoes, and healthy fats from olive oil. Compared to restaurant-style potato soups, this homemade version cuts out unnecessary preservatives and excessive sodium.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make your Hamburger Potato Soup even more nutritious? Try these smart swaps:
- To cut calories and saturated fat, use skim milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Replace half the beef with lentils for a fiber boost and plant-based protein.
- Opt for low-fat cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain flavor with less fat.
- Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra vitamins and minerals.
These modifications help tailor the soup to various dietary needs—including low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets—with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Hamburger Potato Soup warm with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- A crisp green salad on the side
- Toppings like sour cream, green onions, or crumbled bacon
- Pair with a light lager or apple cider for a cozy evening vibe
💡 Personalized Tip : Hosting guests? Give each person a bowl of their own by setting up a “soup bar” with toppings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best Hamburger Potato Soup can go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the dairy : Boiling after adding milk can cause curdling. Always stir gently on low heat.
- Using too much salt early on : Since broth and cheese add sodium, season gradually.
- Skipping the simmering step : Rushing the cook time can leave potatoes underdone.
- Not deglazing the pot : Scrape up browned bits after browning meat—they add depth to the flavor.
By avoiding these errors, your soup will turn out consistently creamy and flavorful every time.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage:
- For up to three months, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Omit the cheese before freezing and add it fresh when reheating to preserve texture.
💡 Meal Prep Hack : Prepare the base (meat, potatoes, broth) ahead of time and refrigerate. Finish with dairy just before serving for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Potato Soup is a perfect example of how comfort food can be both satisfying and nourishing. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and plenty of room for customization, it’s a versatile dish that fits into any lifestyle.
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FAQs
Q1: Is it possible to prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Indeed! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker after browning the steak. Cook for 6–7 hours on low heat. Finally, add the dairy.
Q2: Is this soup keto-friendly?
Not by default, but you can make it keto by using cauliflower instead of potatoes and opting for heavy cream instead of milk.
Q3: How do I reheat frozen soup without curdling?
On the stovetop, reheat gradually over low heat, stirring often. Avoid boiling once dairy has been added.
Q4: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Add them toward the end of cooking to prevent over-softening.
Q5: What other meats work well in this soup?
Turkey, ground pork, or even plant-based crumbles are great alternatives to beef.
