Hamburger potato soup has been my ultimate comfort food for as long as I can remember. There’s something incredibly soul-warming about a bowl of this hearty, flavorful soup, especially on a chilly evening. I can still picture my mom making it in our old kitchen, the aroma of savory ground beef and simmering vegetables filling the air. This ground beef potato soup is so much more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. I’ve found that this easy hamburger potato soup recipe consistently delivers that satisfying, homemade taste without a fuss, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Soup
This hamburger potato soup is a winner for so many reasons!
- Incredible flavor: Savory ground beef and tender vegetables create a deliciously rich taste.
- Quick preparation: It’s surprisingly fast to get this hearty soup on the table.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients for a satisfying meal.
- Family favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this comforting dish.
- Perfectly creamy: You’ll adore how this creamy hamburger potato soup coats every spoonful.
- Healthier option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a wholesome choice.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences, making it a truly customizable meal.
- Seriously satisfying: This creamy hamburger potato soup is pure comfort food bliss.
Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup
Gathering these hamburger potato soup ingredients is simple, and each plays a vital role in creating that classic, comforting flavor. The lean ground beef provides a hearty base, while the tender potatoes soak up all the delicious broth. Fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery add depth and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 pound lean ground beef – the savory foundation of our soup
- 4 medium potatoes, diced – about 4 cups, these become wonderfully tender
- 1 medium onion, chopped – for that essential aromatic start
- 2 medium carrots, sliced – adding a hint of sweetness and color
- 2 stalks celery, chopped – contributes a subtle savory note
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that unmistakable pungent kick
- 4 cups beef broth – the flavorful liquid that ties everything together
- 1 cup milk or cream – to achieve that wonderful creamy texture
- 2 tablespoons butter – used to create our rich roux
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – works with butter to thicken the soup
- Salt to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- Black pepper to taste – for a bit of warmth
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional – for a fresh, bright finish
How to Make Hamburger Potato Soup
Creating this delicious one pot hamburger potato soup is a straightforward process that brings incredible flavor to your table. You’ll love how easily everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze!
- Step 1: Begin by placing a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the 1 pound lean ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and crumbled. As it cooks, you’ll notice a rich, savory aroma filling your kitchen. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Step 2: Now, add the chopped 1 medium onion, minced 3 cloves garlic, sliced 2 medium carrots, and chopped 2 stalks celery to the pot with the beef. Sauté these aromatics for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and release their wonderful fragrances, creating a beautiful flavor base.
- Step 3: Stir in the diced 4 medium potatoes and season generously with salt to taste and black pepper to taste. Let them cook for two to three minutes, just enough to lightly coat them with the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Step 4: Pour in the 4 cups beef broth and bring the entire mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about fifteen minutes. You’ll know the potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender.
- Step 5: While the soup simmers, prepare the creamy base. In a separate small saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for one to two minutes, stirring constantly, to create a light golden roux. This is key to a thick, luscious soup.
- Step 6: Slowly whisk the 1 cup milk or cream into the roux, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens slightly, creating a wonderfully creamy sauce.
- Step 7: Carefully pour this thickened creamy mixture into the simmering soup pot. Stir everything together until the broth thickens beautifully, transforming your ground beef potato soup into a rich and satisfying meal. This is where the magic happens in this one pot hamburger potato soup!
- Step 8: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Step 9: Allow the soup to simmer for another five minutes, giving all those wonderful flavors a chance to meld together perfectly.
- Step 10: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh, chopped 2 tablespoons chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This hearty hamburger potato soup is fantastic with crusty bread or your favorite crackers.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Hamburger Potato Soup
Want to elevate your soup game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make this ground beef potato soup truly shine.
- For a touch of sweetness, toss in some corn or peas during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- If you like a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chili powder along with your salt and pepper.
- Want it extra decadent? Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack right at the end for a wonderfully cheesy hamburger potato soup.
- A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary added with the broth can impart a lovely fragrant aroma.
What’s the secret to perfect Hamburger Potato Soup?
The real secret to a perfect bowl of hamburger potato soup is the roux we make with butter and flour. It creates that rich, velvety texture that makes it feel so indulgent. Adding cheese at the end takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a truly cheesy hamburger potato soup delight.
Can I make Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This ground beef potato soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make the entire soup, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these cold lunch ideas for adults.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hamburger Potato Soup?
A common pitfall is an under-thickened soup; ensure your roux is cooked for at least a minute or two before adding liquid to avoid a pasty taste. Also, don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy. For this hearty hamburger potato soup, aim for fork-tender potatoes. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help prevent these issues. You can find helpful tips on easy family dinners that might offer similar insights.
Best Ways to Serve Hamburger Potato Soup
This hamburger potato soup is so hearty and satisfying on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its comforting flavors. It’s truly a complete meal in a bowl!
- Crusty bread is a must! A warm baguette or a rustic sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth.
- For a lighter touch, serve it with a simple side salad featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches are another fantastic pairing for this ground beef and potato soup. The gooey cheese and savory soup are a match made in heaven! Try making your own pepperoni pizza quesadillas for a fun twist.
Nutrition Facts for Hamburger Potato Soup
This hearty hamburger potato soup is a satisfying meal, and here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving. Remember that these are estimates, as exact values can change based on ingredient brands and specific preparation methods. For more information on general nutrition, you might find resources on foods to eat less of helpful.
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Potato Soup
Properly storing your leftover hamburger potato soup ensures that this delicious meal stays safe and tasty for your next craving. Once the soup has cooled down enough not to steam excessively, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store this ground beef potato soup in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully! Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored soup, thawing it overnight in the refrigerator is the best method. To reheat, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Be sure to stir it halfway through the microwaving process for even heating. If the soup seems a little thick after storage, you can always add a splash more beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. For more tips on reheating, explore these baked meatballs which often require similar reheating advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Potato Soup
What makes this hamburger potato soup so hearty?
The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth is what makes this hearty hamburger potato soup so incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with flavor and substance, making it a perfectly filling meal.
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or even zucchini. Just make sure to add them at the appropriate time so they cook through without getting mushy. This versatility makes it an easy go-to. Consider trying a creamy homemade broccoli salad as a side dish.
How can I make this soup even creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk or add a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese right at the end of cooking. Stir until the cheese is melted and incorporated for a delightful, decadent finish to your hearty hamburger potato soup.
Is this a good soup for meal prepping?
Yes, this hamburger potato soup is fantastic for meal prepping! As mentioned, it often tastes even better the next day. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out into containers, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-reheat meals whenever hunger strikes. You might also like these homemade pasta salad recipes for meal prep.
Variations of Hamburger Potato Soup You Can Try
This hamburger potato soup is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a lighter option or a richer, more decadent bowl, there’s a variation for everyone. These simple tweaks can transform your classic soup into something new and exciting!
- Lighter Version: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or opt for vegetarian crumbles or lentils for a plant-based meal. This makes for a wonderfully healthy and simple hamburger potato soup.
- Extra Creamy Delight: For an even richer, more luxurious soup, use half-and-half instead of milk, or stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese at the very end until melted.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the salt and pepper. This adds a subtle warmth that complements the savory flavors.
- Herbaceous Aroma: Enhance the fragrance and flavor by adding dried thyme or rosemary to the soup along with the beef broth. These herbs add a lovely earthy note that pairs beautifully with the beef and potatoes.
Hamburger Potato Soup: 10 Amazing Flavor Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and comforting Hamburger Potato Soup recipe made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy broth. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy evening.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about five minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for two to three minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about fifteen minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- In a small pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for one to two minutes until slightly golden.
- Slowly whisk in the milk or cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, until thickened.
- Pour the creamy roux into the soup pot, stirring until the broth thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Simmer the soup for another five minutes to let flavors combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with bread or crackers.
Notes
- Add corn or peas for sweetness.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or chili powder for spice.
- Use half and half or add shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
- Try adding thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use lentils or vegetarian crumbles for a plant-based option.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
- Calories: 350-400
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
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