There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth, tender chunks of potato, and hearty bites of seasoned hamburger combine to create a meal that's both satisfying and soul-soothing.

I discovered this recipe on a snowy day, needing something simple but hearty enough to fill our bellies. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of creativity, this soup quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s our go-to dish whenever we crave something cozy and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup! It's not just easy to make – it checks all the boxes for a perfect comfort food recipe.

First and foremost, this soup is quick and effortless to prepare. In just under 40 minutes, you can have a steaming pot of deliciousness ready to serve. It's ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something cozy without the fuss.

Another reason to love it? It’s budget-friendly! With affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and pantry staples, this recipe stretches your grocery dollars while delivering maximum flavor.

What truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or looking for ways to use up leftovers, this dish is incredibly adaptable. Toss in extra veggies, swap out the protein, or adjust the seasonings to suit your family's taste.

Finally, the rich, creamy texture of the broth makes every bite feel indulgent. You'll savor every spoonful, and it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or buttery biscuits.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup lies in its humble ingredients, each contributing to its comforting flavor and texture. Let’s break them down so you can make the most of this recipe.

Ground Beef: The heart of this soup! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and just the right amount of fat. You can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my top choice for this recipe. Their creamy texture holds up beautifully without getting mushy. If you don’t have Yukon Gold, Russets or red potatoes work well too.
Broth: A combination of chicken broth and beef broth creates a balanced flavor base. If you only have one on hand, that works too, but the mix adds depth.
Cheese and Cream: Sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream are the stars of the show here, creating a luscious, creamy broth. For a lighter option, half-and-half can replace the heavy cream.
Aromatics: Don’t skip the onions and garlic! These two simple ingredients add layers of flavor to the soup.
Optional Veggies: Carrots, celery, or even corn can be added to the soup for extra texture and nutrition.

You’ll also need a large soup pot and a sturdy potato masher or immersion blender to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making this soup is as easy as it is rewarding. Let me walk you through the process step-by-step:

1. Cook the Beef:
Start by browning the ground beef in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and season with salt and pepper. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the pot, leaving behind a bit of the rendered fat for extra flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes aromatic.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Stir in peeled and diced potatoes, followed by the combination of chicken broth and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Mash for Texture:
Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This step thickens the soup while leaving a few chunks for texture.

5. Finish with Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. For best results, avoid adding the cream before freezing; stir it in after reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Swap the Protein: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, sausage, or even diced ham for a different twist.
Add Veggies: Stir in peas, corn, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a subtle kick.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your broth and cheese labels to be sure.

Experiment with different combinations until you find your perfect version. The possibilities are endless!

This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a true comfort classic that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a little extra coziness in your day, this recipe is sure to deliver. Don’t forget to share your own twists and variations – I’d love to hear how you make it yours!