There's nothing quite like the cozy comfort of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup on a chilly evening. This hearty and flavorful dish brings together tender chunks of potato, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy broth that warms you from the inside out.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for something quick, filling, and budget-friendly to serve my family during the colder months. It quickly became a staple in our household, with everyone eagerly lining up for seconds. Let's dive into why this soup will be your new favorite go-to meal.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to embrace your new cold-weather comfort food. This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup isn’t just delicious – it’s everything you need in a quick, hearty meal.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weekday. With simple ingredients and just one pot, you can have this soup ready to serve in about 40 minutes.

Another reason to love this soup? It’s super satisfying. The combination of creamy potatoes and flavorful ground beef makes for a dish that’s as filling as it is comforting. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that sticks to your ribs in the best way.

It’s also kid-friendly and customizable. Got picky eaters? No problem! You can adjust the seasonings or sneak in some extra veggies like carrots or celery for added nutrition.

Lastly, this soup is a budget hero. With affordable ingredients like potatoes, ground beef, and pantry staples, you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup lies in its simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish a standout.

Ground beef: The star of the show, ground beef adds heartiness and depth to the soup. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, but if you prefer a richer flavor, 80/20 works well too.

Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup as they break down slightly, creating a creamy texture. If you like chunkier potatoes, Yukon Golds are a great alternative.

Onion and garlic: These aromatics are essential for building the soup’s flavor base. The onion adds sweetness, while the garlic infuses a subtle warmth.

Chicken or beef broth: Using broth instead of water adds a deeper, savory flavor. Low-sodium broth is a great choice if you’re watching your salt intake.

Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its velvety consistency. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, though the texture will be slightly less rich.

You’ll also need basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and a hint of thyme to round out the flavors. A large soup pot or Dutch oven will be your best friend for this recipe.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making this soup is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps for a foolproof, delicious bowl of comfort.

Start by browning ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and once it’s fully browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of butter until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup, so don’t rush it – let the onions soften and turn translucent.

Next, add peeled and diced potatoes to the pot, along with your broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of them directly in the pot. This thickens the soup naturally, giving it a creamy texture.

Stir in the cooked ground beef, along with heavy cream and your seasonings. Simmer everything for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired, and serve piping hot.

Storage Options

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

For refrigeration, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can switch it up to suit your taste:

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
Add veggies: Include diced carrots, celery, or even frozen peas for extra nutrients and texture.
Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat.
Lighter option: Use ground turkey instead of beef and substitute milk for heavy cream to lighten up the dish.

Experiment with these ideas or come up with your own. This soup is incredibly forgiving and open to creativity.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to enjoy a cozy meal, this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it a regular part of your dinner rotation!