When winter winds blow, a warm bowl of soup is just what you need. Imagine a rich broth with tender ground beef and potatoes, topped with melted cheese. This Creamy Hamburger and Potato Soup is perfect for cold days and busy nights. It’s a meal that will warm your heart and please everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Creamy, comforting hamburger and potato soup perfect for cold weather
- Combines ground beef, potatoes, and melted Velveeta cheese for a thick, satisfying texture
- Easy to make with simple, affordable ingredients
- Yields 8 hearty servings, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months for convenient meal prep
The Perfect Comfort Food for Cold Weather
When it gets cold, nothing warms you up like a bowl of soup. Creamy Hamburger and Potato Soup is a classic comfort food. It’s a diner favorite and a soul food hit, great for fighting off winter blues.
What Makes This Soup Special
This soup’s flavor comes from simple yet satisfying ingredients. It has tender ground beef, a rich savory broth, and creamy potatoes. Together, they offer a mix of textures and tastes.
Why Choose Hamburger and Potato Soup
This classic dish is also great for busy cooks. It uses ground meat and frozen veggies, turning simple ingredients into a tasty meal. You can also adjust it to please everyone, making it perfect for family dinners or casual parties.
Health Benefits of This Hearty Meal
Despite being comfort food, this soup is surprisingly healthy. It has lean ground beef, potatoes, and veggies. This mix gives you protein, carbs, and important vitamins and minerals. It’s a filling, balanced meal for anyone looking for something satisfying.
“This soup is the perfect antidote to the chill of winter. The rich, savory broth and hearty texture make it a true comfort food classic.”
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger and Potato Soup
To make a delicious Hamburger and Potato Soup, you need the right ingredients. At the core are lean ground beef, Russet potatoes, and Velveeta cheese. These ingredients blend together to create a tasty soup that’s great for cold days.
The recipe also includes chicken broth, yellow onions, carrots, and garlic for extra flavor. You’ll also need whole milk, flour, and spices like dried basil and parsley flakes. These add to the soup’s taste and nutrition.
For a personal touch, try adding shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions on top. They add texture and flavor to every bite.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced | 6 cups |
| Chicken Broth | 6 cups |
| Frozen Vegetable Mix | 2 cups |
| Dried Basil | 3 teaspoons |
| Dried Parsley Flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Whole Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Cubed Velveeta Cheese | 8 ounces |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a hearty Hamburger and Potato Soup. It will warm your body and soul.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
Making a tasty hamburger and potato soup needs the right tools and prep. Let’s look at the cookware and steps to make your soup-making easy and stress-free.
Required Cookware
- A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot to simmer the soup
- A skillet for browning the ground beef patty
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons to precisely portion ingredients
Prep Work Essentials
Before cooking, spend a few minutes prepping the main ingredients:
- Peel and dice the starchy vegetables, like potatoes, into small pieces
- Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and other veggies
- Measure the broth, tomato paste, herbs, and spices for easy adding during cooking
Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks
Here are some tips to make prep easier:
- Use pre-cut or frozen veggies to save chopping time
- Use a food processor or mandoline slicer for quick veggie chopping
- Try a slow cooker or Instant Pot for easy, hands-off cooking
With the right tools and prep, you’ll make a delicious hamburger and potato soup. It’s perfect for a cold day.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mins | 30 mins | 50 mins | 8 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make a warm and comforting hamburger and potato soup with these simple steps. Begin by browning 1 pound of ground hamburger in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, cooking for about 5 minutes until they’re soft.
Mince a few cloves of garlic and stir them into the mix, cooking for an extra minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flour lightly toast and thicken the soup base. Then, pour in 3 cups of potato soup broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add 3 diced Yukon Gold potatoes and 1 1/2 cups of whole milk to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to cook until the cheese has melted and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
Remember to stir the soup occasionally during the simmering process to prevent any sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot. This hearty and comforting hamburger and potato soup is sure to warm you up on a chilly day. Enjoy!
“This hamburger and potato soup is the perfect comfort food for cold weather. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make at home.”
Choosing the Right Potatoes and Ground Beef
Choosing the right potatoes and ground beef is key to a great hamburger and potato soup. The right ingredients boost flavor and improve texture and consistency.
Best Potato Varieties for Soup
Russet potatoes are the best choice for this soup. They break down and thicken the broth, making it creamy and comforting. Yukon gold or red potatoes are good alternatives, offering different flavors and textures.
Ground Beef Selection Tips
For the ground beef, lean (90/10) is best. It keeps the soup from getting too greasy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
| Ingredient | Recommended Type | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | Russet | Break down during cooking, thickening the broth |
| Ground Beef | Lean (90/10) | Reduces excess fat, creating a healthier soup |
By picking the right potatoes and ground beef, you make a soup that’s tasty and well-balanced. It’s all about the texture and flavor.
Customization and Variations
This creamy comfort food hamburger and potato soup is super versatile. You can make it heartier or try new flavors. It’s all about making it your own.
Love a good savory broth? Try beef or vegetable broth instead of chicken. It adds a richer taste. You can also mix up the ground meat. Use turkey, Italian sausage, or a mix for different flavors.
- Substitute the chicken broth with beef or vegetable broth for a richer, more savory flavor.
- Use a combination of ground meats, such as turkey, Italian sausage, or a blend, to experiment with different textures and tastes.
- Add diced celery, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the soup for extra nutrition and visual appeal.
- Swap the Velveeta cheese for shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses to customize the creaminess.
- Mash some of the cooked potatoes to thicken the soup and create a creamier consistency.
- Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream to enhance the velvety texture.
There’s no limit to how you can change up this comforting soup. Try new ingredients and flavors. Make it your own and find new favorites.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancement Tips
Creating a classic soul food dish like hamburger and potato soup is all about the right seasoning. Start with salt, black pepper, and dried parsley. These basics enhance the savory ground beef and creamy potatoes.
Herb and Spice Combinations
For more flavor, try fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. A bit of garlic adds depth and richness. Experiment with herbs and spices to find your favorite classic dish taste.
Balancing Flavors
It’s important to balance the meat flavor with the creamy potatoes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding parmesan cheese or sour cream can balance the flavors.
The beauty of soul food classics like hamburger and potato soup is their customizability. Feel free to try different seasonings and flavors until you find what you love.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the hearty and comforting hamburger and potato soup without worry about leftovers. This diner staple can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy its delicious flavors for multiple servings.
For longer-term storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool the soup to room temperature before freezing it in a Ziplock freezer bag. This prevents thickening or texture changes during freezing.
To reheat the soup, simply transfer it to a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out. This gentle reheating process keeps the dairy ingredients smooth and creamy.
Whether you’re enjoying a hearty bowl for lunch or dinner, the hamburger and potato soup is a versatile and convenient option. It can be prepared in advance and enjoyed throughout the week. With proper storage and reheating, this comforting dish is always ready to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This classic dish of creamy hamburger and potato soup is perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and green onions. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
The soup is great as a main course or starter. It’s rich, creamy, and savory. It’s a crowd-pleaser that warms you up on cold days.
| Serving Suggestion | Pairing |
|---|---|
| Main Course | Crusty Bread, Garden Salad |
| Starter | Garlic Breadsticks, Fresh Rolls |
For a fuller meal, try it with garlic breadsticks or a fresh salad. The soup’s creamy flavors match well with crisp, light sides.
This comfort food classic will surely please your taste buds. It’s great for a cozy meal or as a tasty starter.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Making the hamburger and potato soup of your dreams is all about the details. From chopping veggies to seasoning the broth, a few tips can make a big difference. They ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying.
- Chop the carrots into small, even pieces to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the potatoes.
- When browning the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy.
- When adding the broth, take a moment to deglaze the pot, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will infuse your savory broth with maximum flavor.
- Stir continuously when incorporating the milk and cheese to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Simmer the soup gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook evenly, about 30 minutes.
With these simple tricks, you’ll be on your way to making a hamburger and potato soup that will impress everyone. Bon appétit!
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 270 kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 23g | 8% |
| Protein | 21g | 42% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 19% |
| Cholesterol | 49mg | 16% |
| Sodium | 588mg | 26% |
| Potassium | 1169mg | 33% |
| Fiber | 5g | 21% |
| Sugar | 6g | 7% |
| Vitamin A | 5986IU | 120% |
| Vitamin C | 27mg | 33% |
| Calcium | 77mg | 8% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
The secret to perfecting this hamburger and potato soup recipe is in the details. By following these expert tips, you’ll create a comforting and delicious dish. It will warm you from the inside out.
Conclusion
Hamburger and potato soup is a great comfort food for cold days or when you’re busy. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. It’s a hamburger and potato soup that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
This hamburger and potato soup is perfect for when you want something warm and comforting. It uses good ingredients like lean ground beef and potatoes. It’s a tasty, healthy meal for any time.
This hamburger and potato soup is easy to make and can be changed to fit your taste. It’s a meal that will make you and your loved ones feel cozy and happy. Try it out and enjoy the delicious flavors and comfort it brings.