I absolutely love comforting, hearty soups that warm you up from the inside out, and this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup does exactly that. The rich, creamy broth, tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a generous amount of melty cheddar cheese make this dish a favorite in my kitchen—especially on those chilly evenings when I crave something filling and flavorful.

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this soup is how simple it is to make with ingredients I usually have on hand. It’s a fantastic one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare but tastes like you spent hours cooking. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

This soup combines the comfort of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of a potato soup, making it a delightful fusion of flavors. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s an ideal dish to serve when you want something that will please everyone at the table—kids and adults alike. The creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory beef make it irresistible.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For this soup, I typically reach for Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well and add a natural creaminess to the soup. Russets, on the other hand, break down a bit more, creating a thicker texture. You can also use red potatoes if you prefer a firmer bite. Honestly, it depends on the texture you’re aiming for—both work beautifully in this recipe.

Options for Substitutions

One of the things I love about this soup is how flexible it is. Here are some ideas to adapt it:

Ground meat: If you don’t have ground beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage can be used.
Cheese: While cheddar is my go-to, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a smoky gouda.
Milk or cream: Use heavy cream for a richer soup, or swap in half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter version.
Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth can replace beef broth if you want a milder flavor.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the flavor and texture of this comforting soup. Let’s take a closer look:

Ground beef
The heart of the soup, giving it a savory, meaty flavor and a bit of richness.
Potatoes
They add heartiness and a creamy bite. Choose your favorite variety based on your preferred texture.
Onion
Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed with the beef.
Garlic
Enhances the savory notes and complements the beef perfectly.
Beef broth
Creates a flavorful base and ties everything together.
Milk
Adds creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
Cheddar cheese
The star of the show! It melts into the soup, giving it that deliciously cheesy finish.
Flour (optional)
Helps thicken the soup slightly for a velvety texture.
Butter
Used to sauté the aromatics and add richness to the broth.
Salt & pepper
Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the flavors.
Fresh parsley (optional)
Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup (Optional)

If you like a thicker soup, whisk a couple of tablespoons of flour into a small amount of milk until smooth, then stir it into the pot. Let it cook for a few more minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Milk

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt fully. Once the cheese is incorporated, pour in the milk and stir gently to combine. Warm the soup through but do not bring it to a boil.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

How Long to Cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

The total cooking time for this soup is about 35 to 40 minutes:

Browning the beef: 5–7 minutes
Sautéing aromatics: 3–4 minutes
Simmering potatoes in broth: 15–20 minutes
Finishing with cheese and milk: 5–7 minutes

It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal on the table in under an hour.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For best results, shred fresh cheddar.
Use starchy potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes help create a creamier texture.
Simmer gently after adding milk: To prevent curdling, keep the heat low once you add the milk and cheese.
Season in stages: Taste the soup after adding the broth, and again before serving, to adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve immediately: The soup is at its best when freshly made, with gooey melted cheese and perfectly tender potatoes.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the potatoes: If simmered too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and test with a fork for tenderness.
Boiling after adding cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy. Always reduce the heat before stirring in cheese.
Using too lean ground beef: A little fat enhances flavor. If using very lean meat, you might want to add a touch more butter.
Skipping seasoning: Potatoes soak up a lot of flavor—taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
Adding milk too quickly: Pour it in slowly and stir gently to prevent curdling or breaking the soup.

What to Serve With Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

1. Crusty Bread

Perfect for dunking and soaking up that cheesy broth.

2. Garlic Bread

Adds extra flavor and a crunchy texture to complement the creamy soup.

3. Simple Green Salad

A light, refreshing side to balance the richness of the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli work beautifully.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

For the ultimate cheesy comfort meal, pair it with a melty sandwich.

6. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

Their tanginess cuts through the richness of the soup.

7. Apple Slices

A crisp, sweet contrast that brightens the meal.

8. Coleslaw

Adds a crunchy, creamy element that pairs well with the hearty soup.

Storage Instructions

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep:

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze this soup, be aware that the texture of the potatoes and cheese can change slightly. If you do freeze it, use freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Estimated Nutrition

The following is an approximate nutritional estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 400–450 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 25–30g
Fat: 25–30g
Fiber: 2–3g
Sugar: 4–6g
Sodium: 800–1000mg

Nutrition will vary depending on specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup holds up well in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

You can, though the texture of the potatoes and cheese may change slightly. For best results, freeze before adding the cheese and milk, then finish the soup fresh when reheating.

3. What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and gives the soup a bold, cheesy flavor. You can also mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?

Use a flour and milk slurry, or mash a portion of the potatoes to naturally thicken the soup.

5. Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Skip the flour, and thicken the soup by mashing some of the potatoes or using a cornstarch slurry instead.

6. Can I use a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and milk) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, stir in cheese and milk just before serving.

7. What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding cooked bacon, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.

8. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, both work well! Just keep in mind they have a milder flavor, so you may want to adjust seasonings to your taste.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the kind of recipe that brings comfort in every spoonful. It’s simple to prepare, hearty enough for a main course, and endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just cozying up with a bowl on your own, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Author: Sally Thompson
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for chilly nights or anytime you need a cozy bowl of goodness.

Instructions

In a large soup pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and set beef aside.
In the same pot, melt butter. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Return beef to the pot. Add diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
If thickening, whisk flour with a small amount of milk and stir into the soup. Simmer a few more minutes to thicken.
Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheese until melted. Add milk and stir gently to combine. Warm soup through without boiling.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes