Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Cooking often brings back memories of cozy nights and hearty meals shared with family. One such memory revolves around a chilly evening spent preparing cheesy hamburger potato soup. The aroma of sizzling ground beef blended seamlessly with the earthy scent of potatoes and onions simmering on the stove. This dish has a way of transforming a simple gathering into something deeply comforting.

As the steam floated through the kitchen, laughter and conversations filled the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and love. Cheese melted into a creamy broth, enveloping tender potatoes and hearty beef, making each spoonful a delightful experience. This recipe epitomizes comfort food at its finest, offering both taste and nostalgia.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, cheesy hamburger potato soup will undoubtedly impress. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise flavor; every ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that soulful meal everyone craves.

Now, let’s dive into the steps and secrets behind creating this delectable soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Fundamentals

To master cheesy hamburger potato soup, understanding the basic components is crucial. The star of the dish is lean ground beef, which provides the necessary protein while keeping the dish robust. Its flavor complements the other ingredients, elevating each bite to a new level of satisfaction.

Russet potatoes add substance, giving the soup body and heartiness. When you dice them, you create uniform pieces that cook evenly, absorbing the flavors of the beef broth. Onions and garlic bring a fragrant touch, providing depth and warmth to the overall taste.

The creamy blend of sharp cheddar cheese and milk or heavy cream transforms the soup into a luxurious, velvety experience. This combination makes every bowl inviting, especially during colder months or when comfort is needed.

Preparation/setup

Preparing cheesy hamburger potato soup involves a few simple steps that anyone can follow. Start by gathering all the ingredients. When you’re organized, cooking becomes seamless, allowing you to focus on bringing flavors to life.

First, prepare the vegetables. Dice the russet potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes the cooking process flow smoothly.

Next, grab a large pot for cooking the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution, which is essential for browning the beef and cooking the onions.

Lastly, measure out the beef broth, cheese, and milk or cream. With everything prepped, you’re ready to bring this comforting dish together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: Cook the lean ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula until it browns. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and healthy.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil. After it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

4. Incorporate Cheese and Cream: Lower the heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk (or cream). Simmer for another 5 minutes while stirring, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.

With these steps, you’ll prepare cheesy hamburger potato soup that radiates comfort and taste.

Cooking Techniques for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Technique

The success of cheesy hamburger potato soup lies in the techniques used throughout the cooking process. Browning the beef properly allows for Maillard reactions, enhancing the soup’s flavor. Use a medium heat to achieve even browning without burning the meat.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, wait until they turn fragrant before adding other ingredients. This technique releases their essential oils, creating a flavor base that’s hard to resist.

Simmering is another critical technique. Allowing the potatoes to cook gently in the broth ensures they become tender without falling apart. This step also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips/Tricks

Utilizing a few tips can take your cheesy hamburger potato soup to the next level. First, consider adding some spices for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can introduce warmth without overwhelming the soup’s classic taste.

Another trick is to use a mix of cheeses. Mixing sharp cheddar with something milder provides a more complex flavor profile.

For added texture, consider tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. They brighten the soup, making it visually appealing and adding fresh notes.

Perfecting Your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Perfecting Results

To perfect your cheesy hamburger potato soup, focus on the consistency and flavor balance. If the soup appears too thick, add a bit more beef broth or milk until you achieve a creamy yet pourable texture.

Taste is key as well. Always season with salt and pepper gradually. You can adjust according to your palate and the saltiness of the beef broth used.

If you find the soup too rich, a splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors, cutting through any heaviness while enhancing overall taste.

Troubleshooting/Variations

While making cheesy hamburger potato soup, you may encounter a few challenges. For instance, if the potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, ensure you dice them to a uniform size. This helps them cook at the same rate.

If your soup turns out too bland, try adding fresh herbs or a splash of hot sauce. Both can elevate the harmonious flavors that define this comfort dish.

For variations, consider swapping out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for unique twists.

Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Serving/Presentation

When it comes to serving cheesy hamburger potato soup, presentation plays a significant role. Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese for a delightful finish.

Using fresh herbs as a garnish enhances the visual appeal and freshness. Serve the soup with crusty bread or soft rolls on the side for dipping.

Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music can transform mealtime into an experience everyone will cherish.

Pairings/Storage

For side dishes, complementing cheesy hamburger potato soup can include a fresh garden salad or lightly steamed vegetables. Both provide balance and additional nutrients, making the meal hearty yet wholesome.

When it comes to storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.

Cheesy hamburger potato soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion.

Cheesy hamburger potato soup serves up nostalgia, warmth, and flavor, inviting anyone to experience the joy it brings.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting and hearty soup featuring lean ground beef, russet potatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula and draining excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
4. Lower the heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese and milk (or cream). Simmer for another 5 minutes while stirring until cheese is melted and creamy.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance freshness when served.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cheesy soup, hamburger soup, potato soup, comfort food, quick meal