There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup on a chilly evening. The creamy broth, tender potatoes, and savory ground beef come together with melted cheese for a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

I first discovered this recipe during a snowy winter when I was craving something hearty and satisfying yet easy to whip up. It’s since become a family staple, with everyone eagerly awaiting their turn for seconds. Let me show you how to make it step-by-step!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this cozy, cheesy delight. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just one pot and basic ingredients, you'll have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

The flavor is off the charts! Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting. Every spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese.

Not to mention, it’s a budget-friendly recipe. Using pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients, this soup is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to make something truly delicious.

And if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it’s a dream. The soup reheats beautifully, making it just as tasty the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds to the robust flavor and creamy texture, ensuring every bite is absolutely perfect.

Ground Beef: Choose a lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to keep the soup rich without becoming too greasy. Brown it thoroughly to build a deep, savory flavor base.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe. Their starchy texture helps thicken the soup naturally. Dice them evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste. Be sure to shred it yourself for the best melting quality.
Broth and Milk: A combination of chicken or beef broth and whole milk creates the creamy base. For extra richness, you can substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
Aromatics: Onion and garlic add depth and warmth to the soup. Don’t skip them—they’re the secret to that irresistible, savory aroma.

Special Equipment: A large stockpot or Dutch oven is ideal for cooking this soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients.

How To Make This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Creating this comforting soup is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps, and you'll be ladling up a hearty bowl in no time.

Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re soft and fragrant. This step builds a rich flavor base for the soup.
Add the Potatoes and Broth
Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Make It Creamy
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of them directly in the pot. This helps thicken the soup naturally. Stir in the cooked ground beef, followed by the milk and cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika if desired. Serve piping hot, garnished with chopped parsley or extra cheese for a picture-perfect bowl.

Storage Options

This soup is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm up the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste or dietary needs:

Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add more potatoes or canned white beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
Add Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or even corn for added nutrition and texture.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped green chilies for a spicy kick.
Lower the Calories: Use reduced-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients—this recipe is your canvas!

Whether you’re warming up after a long day or planning a cozy family dinner, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Try it tonight and see why it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!