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I grew up in a small Midwestern kitchen. My grandmother’s hamburger potato soup was famous. It was like a warm hug in a bowl.
This soup wasn’t just food. It was a tradition that brought us all together. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this classic soup.
This soup has hearty ground beef, creamy potatoes, and rich flavors. It will make your taste buds happy. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner or a meal for a crowd.
Key Takeaways
- Super easy one-pot meal that serves 8 people
- Packed with 24g of protein per serving
- Ready in just 60 minutes total
- Budget-friendly and kid-approved recipe
- Nutritious soup with multiple vegetable options
Why This Creamy Ground Beef Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
When it’s cold outside, nothing warms us up like a good meal. My hamburger potato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It turns simple ingredients into a special family dinner.
Perfect Comfort Food for Chilly Evenings
This soup is so creamy, it warms you up inside. It’s made with tender ground beef and soft potatoes. It’s the perfect meal to fight off the cold.
Budget-Friendly Culinary Magic
Good food doesn’t have to cost a lot. This recipe shows you can make a great meal without spending a lot. It uses easy, cheap ingredients to make a big, tasty soup.
| Nutritional Highlights | Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Total Calories | 458 kcal | – |
| Protein | 31.4g | – |
| Total Fat | 20.3g | 26% |
Kid-Approved Culinary Delight
Picky eaters will love this soup! It’s cheesy and creamy, making it a hit with kids. Parents will love that it’s also healthy.
“A soup that makes dinnertime easy and delicious? Yes, please!” – Home Cook Magazine
Make this hamburger potato soup a regular part of your meals. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup
To make a tasty vegetable soup with meat and potatoes, pick the right ingredients. These ingredients should taste great and feel comforting. Let’s explore what makes this soup special.
Main Components: Building the Soup’s Foundation
The heart of this soup is in its ingredients. Choose lean ground beef with 93% to 7% fat for the best flavor and texture. This choice will make your meat and potatoes soup stand out.
- 1-1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 pound russet potatoes (approximately 8 small potatoes)
- 1 cup each of chopped onions, carrots, and celery
- 4 cups beef broth
Seasonings and Spices: Elevating Flavor Profiles
Seasonings turn a simple soup into a feast for the senses. The right mix of herbs and spices adds depth and complexity.
| Seasoning | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | ½ teaspoon |
| Bay Leaf | 1 whole |
Dairy and Thickening Agents: Creating Creamy Perfection
For a smooth texture, choose the right dairy and thickening agents. Use 1-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for the perfect consistency.
“The magic of a great soup is in its ingredients and the love you put into preparing them.”
Knowing each ingredient’s role helps you make a delicious hamburger potato soup. It will warm hearts and fill appetites.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Preparing a tasty hamburger potato soup needs the right tools. I’ll show you the essential equipment for a smooth cooking experience.
- Large Dutch oven or 6-quart stockpot
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Pro tip: A heavy-bottom pot is key for even heat and to prevent scorching.
“The right tools can transform a good recipe into an exceptional meal.”
Optional but helpful tools include:
- Immersion blender for a smoother texture
- Kitchen thermometer
- Slow cooker (alternative cooking method)
You don’t need every item. Most home cooks can make this soup with basic tools. A large pot and some basic utensils are all you need.
Preparing the Ground Beef and Vegetable Base
Making a tasty hearty soup starts with a good base. I’ll show you how to make the base for our beef stew-inspired Hamburger Potato Soup.
Browning the Ground Beef
The secret to a rich beef stew flavor is in the browned ground beef. Use 90% lean ground beef for less grease and more flavor. Here’s what to do:
- Heat olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat
- Break ground beef into small crumbles for even browning
- Cook until meat develops a deep golden-brown color
- Drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy
Sautéing the Aromatic Vegetables
Aromatics are key for depth in our hearty soup. I choose vegetables carefully for flavor:
| Vegetable | Preparation | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Onions | Finely chopped | 3-4 minutes |
| Garlic | Minced | 30-60 seconds |
| Carrots | Diced | 4-5 minutes |
Adding Complementary Vegetables
To finish our vegetable base, I pick more veggies that go well with the beef. Timing is everything when adding veggies to keep them fresh and full of nutrients.
“A great soup is all about layering flavors and respecting each ingredient’s cooking time.”
By using these methods, you’ll make a strong and tasty base. This turns a simple soup into a meal to remember.
Creating the Creamy Soup Base
Turning your hamburger and veggie mix into a creamy soup is easy. I’ll show you how to make a creamy soup base that your family will love.
To make the soup smooth, start with a roux. Sprinkle flour over the mix and stir well. This step adds flavor and the right thickness.
Roux-Making Techniques
- Cook the flour mix for 1-2 minutes to get rid of raw flour taste
- Stir constantly to avoid burning
- Use medium heat for the best results
Then, add chicken broth and milk slowly, whisking all the time. This keeps the soup smooth and silky.
“The key to a perfect creamy soup is patience and constant stirring” – Grandma’s Kitchen Wisdom
For an extra rich soup, use heavy cream instead of milk. It makes the soup very creamy and indulgent.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2-3 tablespoons | Thickening base |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Liquid base |
| Heavy cream | ⅔ cup | Creamy texture |
Pro tip: Always add liquids slowly and keep stirring to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, creamy soup every time!
Perfect Potato Selection and Preparation Tips
Choosing the right potatoes is key for a great potato soup. Let’s explore how to pick and prepare the best potatoes for a creamy soup.
Why Russet Potatoes Reign Supreme
Russet potatoes are the top pick for potato soup. They have a special quality. These potatoes get softer when cooked, making the soup thick and creamy.
- High starch content helps create a smooth consistency
- Naturally thickens the potato soup without extra ingredients
- Provides a classic, hearty potato flavor
Potato Preparation Techniques
Getting your potatoes ready right is important for a perfect soup. Here’s what to do:
- Wash potatoes well to get rid of dirt
- Peel the potatoes for a smooth feel
- Cut into uniform 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking
“The secret to an amazing potato soup lies in the quality and preparation of your potatoes.”
| Potato Type | Soup Suitability | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Russet | Excellent | Creamy, slightly broken down |
| Yukon Gold | Good | Smooth, buttery |
| Red Potatoes | Fair | Firmer, holds shape |
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, pre-cut frozen potatoes can be a quick fix. But, they might change the soup’s feel a bit.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the best hamburger potato soup needs focus and the right cooking steps. I’ll show you how to make this tasty comfort food.
- Combine Ingredients: In a big pot, mix browned ground beef, sautéed veggies, and potato cubes.
- Add Broth: Pour in 3 cups of beef broth. Make sure everything is covered.
- Simmer Carefully: Lower the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes.
For the best hamburger potato soup, simmer gently. Stir often to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. Check potatoes for tenderness with a fork around 12 minutes.
“Patience is the secret ingredient in creating the most delicious soup!” – Home Cooking Wisdom
When potatoes are tender, add the creamy base. Slowly mix in the milk, stirring well to avoid lumps.
| Cooking Stage | Duration | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Simmering | 30-35 minutes | Cook potatoes until tender |
| Milk Incorporation | 5 minutes | Stir and blend creamy base |
| Final Seasoning | 2-3 minutes | Adjust taste and consistency |
Remember, slow and low is key for this soup. Don’t boil, as it can ruin the creamy texture.
Making Your Soup Richer and Creamier
To make the best creamy soup, you need some special tricks. These tricks turn a simple soup into a fancy meal. I’ll tell you my best tips to make your hamburger potato soup richer and tastier.
Cheese Additions for Maximum Flavor
Choosing the right cheese is key for a great creamy soup. I suggest sharp white cheddar or a mix of cheeses for more flavor. Here are some great cheese options:
- Sharp white cheddar (8 ounces)
- Colby Jack
- Monterey Jack
- Smoked cheese varieties
Dairy Thickening Techniques
To get the perfect creamy soup, try these dairy tips:
- Stir in 1.5 cups of whole milk for extra creaminess
- Add 8 ounces of cream cheese for richness
- Splash of heavy cream just before serving
- Use a cornstarch slurry (1:1 ratio) for thickening
Pro Tips for Texture
Remember these important tips for creamy soup:
- Always add cheese at low heat to prevent graininess
- Stir continuously when incorporating dairy
- Adjust liquid volumes for desired consistency
“The secret to a perfect creamy soup is patience and the right ingredients!” – Chef’s Recommendation
By using these methods, you’ll make a creamy soup that’s as good as a restaurant’s.
Customization Options and Variations
This ground beef soup is very versatile. You can make it your own in many ways. It fits different tastes and diets.
- Vegetable Variations:
- Add sweet corn for extra sweetness
- Incorporate bell peppers for color
- Mix in diced celery for crunch
- Protein Alternatives:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey
- Use ground chicken for a leaner option
- Try plant-based crumbles for vegetarian version
Here’s a quick guide for swapping proteins and veggies:
| Protein Option | Calories per Serving | Protein Content |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80/20) | 250-300 | 20g |
| Ground Turkey | 180-220 | 22g |
| Plant-Based Crumbles | 100-150 | 15g |
Pro tip: Want fewer carbs? Try using cauliflower instead of potatoes. It’s a tasty swap that cuts carbs.
“Creativity in the kitchen transforms good recipes into great memories” – Home Cooking Wisdom
Every change makes this soup special. You can make it healthier, fit dietary needs, or just try new tastes. These options keep your soup exciting and tasty every time.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After enjoying a delicious family dinner, you’ll want to preserve your Hamburger Potato Soup for future meals. Proper storage is key to maintaining the soup’s flavor and safety.
I’ve discovered some essential guidelines for keeping your soup fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days
- Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Recommended storage temperature: At or below 40°F
When preparing to store your soup for a future family dinner, follow these key steps:
- Cool the soup completely before storing
- Use clean, airtight containers
- Leave about an inch of space for expansion when freezing
- Label containers with the date of preparation
“The secret to great leftovers is proper storage and gentle reheating.” – Home Cooking Wisdom
Reheating requires a gentle touch. I recommend:
- Stovetop method: Warm over low heat to prevent dairy separation
- Microwave method: Use medium power and stir occasionally
- Avoid repeated reheating to maintain quality
Pro tip for your family dinner prep: Consider freezing in individual portions for easy future meals. This way, you can enjoy your delicious Hamburger Potato Soup anytime without waste!
Conclusion
I shared my favorite winter warmer recipe with you. It’s a Hamburger Potato Soup that’s a real game-changer. You need just 2 lbs of ground beef and 5-6 cubed potatoes to make it. This soup serves 6-8 people and is a comfort food masterpiece.
It takes 6 hours to cook, turning simple ingredients into a rich, hearty meal. This soup is not just a recipe. It’s about making an experience.
From browning the beef to adding creamy broth and milk, every step is special. The 2 cups of Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese make it extra special.
My kitchen tip is to not rush it. The last 30 minutes of cooking are key for deep flavors. This soup is perfect for cold days or when you just want something comforting.
It’s more than a meal. It’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings families together. Great cooking is about passion, creativity, and sharing.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the crockpot, and make a meal that will become a family tradition.
FAQ
Can I make this Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can! It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Cool it down first and store it in a tight container. When you reheat, do it slowly to keep the soup creamy.
What are the best potatoes to use in this soup?
Russet potatoes are the best choice. They make the soup thick and creamy. Yukon Gold potatoes are also good if you can’t find Russet.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based meats like Beyond Meat or Impossible Meat. Or, try diced mushrooms for a meaty feel. Just remember to adjust the seasonings.
How can I make this soup lower in calories?
Use lean meats like ground turkey. Swap whole milk for skim milk and low-fat cheese. Adding more veggies also helps keep calories down.
Can I freeze Hamburger Potato Soup?
You can freeze it, but the texture might change. For the best taste, freeze without the cream. Add it when you reheat. It freezes well for up to 3 months.
What are some good toppings for this soup?
Try shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, sour cream, or croutons. They add flavor and texture.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, the regular recipe has gluten from flour. But, you can make it gluten-free. Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour mix instead.