Hearty Hamburger Potato Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Hamburger potato soup combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy broth for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, comes together in under an hour, and delivers rich, creamy flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
1 cup (240ml) milk
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon

Instructions

Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the potatoes and broth: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add the cubed potatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and chicken or beef broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Make the creamy base: In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the milk until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup. Add the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.
Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup as they break down slightly and add to the creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent option for a slightly firmer bite.
Customize the flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a handful of frozen peas for a pop of sweetness and color.
Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for the heavy cream if you’re looking to reduce calories.

Conclusion

Hamburger potato soup is a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, hearty texture and savory flavors make it a meal the whole family will love. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Serve it with warm crusty bread or a side salad, and enjoy the ultimate comfort in a bowl! Try this recipe tonight and discover why it’s such a favorite.