Hamburger Potato Soup

Ingredient Background

A great soup starts with high-quality, simple ingredients, and Hamburger Potato Soup is no exception. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients and why they work so well together.

Ground beef is the heart of this soup, providing a rich, savory depth that pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes. Ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, making this soup not only delicious but also nutritious. Opting for lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) helps balance flavor and texture while preventing excess grease.

Potatoes are what give this soup its signature creaminess and comforting texture. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly when cooked, helping to thicken the broth naturally. If you prefer a firmer potato that holds its shape, Yukon Golds are an excellent alternative. Potatoes are rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, making them a healthy and filling addition to this dish.

Worcestershire sauce might seem like a small ingredient, but it plays a huge role in enhancing the soup’s umami flavor. This fermented sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth that complements the beef perfectly. A little goes a long way, and just a teaspoon or two transforms the overall taste.

Technique Tips for Hamburger Potato Soup

Making a perfect Hamburger Potato Soup is all about technique. Follow these expert tips to take your soup from good to great.

One of the best ways to maximize flavor is to properly brown the ground beef. Instead of stirring constantly, let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two at a time while cooking. This allows it to develop a deep, caramelized crust that enhances the overall richness of the soup.

For a soup that’s extra thick and creamy, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before serving. This naturally thickens the broth without needing extra flour or cornstarch. If you want an even silkier texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup while leaving some chunks intact.

Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Since different brands of beef broth have varying sodium levels, it’s important to check the saltiness before adding extra. A little extra Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate the flavors even further.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While this soup is delicious on its own, there are plenty of fun ways to serve it for different occasions.

For a loaded baked potato-inspired twist, top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy turkey bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. This transforms the soup into a dish reminiscent of a fully loaded baked potato.

If you’re serving this soup at a gathering or party, consider offering a DIY toppings bar. Set out bowls of shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, and crunchy croutons so guests can customize their soup. This makes for a fun, interactive meal that everyone will love.

For a bread bowl experience, hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread and ladle the soup inside. The thick bread absorbs the creamy broth, making every bite a flavorful delight. This is an especially comforting way to serve the soup on a chilly night.

Freezing and Storing Hamburger Potato Soup

This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals and stores beautifully, whether you want to keep it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later.

For short-term storage, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.

To freeze the soup, let it cool and then pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Flatten the bags to save space in the freezer. The soup will stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the milk and cream until reheating. Dairy can sometimes separate when frozen, so adding it fresh when warming up the soup will keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Healthier Twist Ideas

If you want to lighten up this Hamburger Potato Soup, there are several ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.

For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These options provide a similar texture and flavor while reducing the overall fat content.

Instead of using heavy cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or evaporated milk. Greek yogurt adds a protein boost while keeping the soup creamy, and evaporated milk gives a rich texture without the extra fat.

To increase fiber and nutrients, add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. Chopped carrots and celery enhance the soup’s flavor while adding vitamins, while spinach or kale can be stirred in at the end for a dose of leafy greens.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This Hamburger Potato Soup is a fantastic dish for various occasions, from casual family dinners to larger gatherings.

For a cozy family dinner, serve the soup with a side of warm, buttered cornbread or garlic bread. The soft, buttery bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.

At a fall or winter gathering, this soup makes an excellent addition to a soup-and-salad buffet. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad, a loaf of crusty bread, and a side of roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

If you’re meal prepping for work lunches, divide the soup into individual containers and pack it with a side of crackers or a simple sandwich. It reheats well in the microwave and makes for a hearty, satisfying lunch on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of potato?
   Yes! Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture, but Yukon Golds hold their shape better.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes! Replace the milk and cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

4. Can I thicken the soup without mashing the potatoes?
   Yes! You can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) for a thicker consistency.

5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Definitely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that still tastes great.

6. What other vegetables can I add?
   Carrots, celery, peas, and spinach are all great additions to make this soup heartier and more nutritious.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
   Yes, but the soup will have a milder flavor. Adding a dash of soy sauce or extra seasonings can help.

8. How do I prevent the dairy from curdling?
   Make sure to add the milk and cream at the end and keep the heat on low to avoid curdling.

9. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?
   Yes! If you have pre-cooked beef, simply add it after the potatoes are tender and heat through.

10. Can I add pasta to this soup?
    Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni can be added, but you may need extra broth.

Conclusion

Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect combination of comfort, heartiness, and flavor. With its creamy texture, rich beefy broth, and tender potatoes, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy dish to warm you up, this soup is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy every spoonful!

Hamburger Potato Soup

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• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For serving (optional):

• Crusty bread
• Crumbled turkey bacon
• Sour cream for topping

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Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. If needed, drain excess grease and return the beef to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

If there isn’t enough grease left from the beef, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Then, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Seasonings

Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, letting the potatoes absorb the flavors for about a minute.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the beef broth, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Add the Milk and Cream

Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together and create a creamy consistency.

Step 6: Mash Some of the Potatoes (Optional)

For a thicker soup, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will create a more creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for a hearty bite.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with a side of crusty bread or crumbled turkey bacon for an extra treat.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Dig into this warm, comforting bowl of Hamburger Potato Soup and savor every bite. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g