When the weather turns cold and the days get shorter, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty, warm soup. One of the best recipes to combat the chill is the Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup. This dish is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese, creating a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the details of how you can make this comforting soup to warm up your evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 6 cups peeled & diced Russet potatoes
- 2 cups frozen vegetable mix
- 3 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Cook Ground Beef and Onions
Start by frying the ground beef and diced onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the onions become soft and translucent and the ground beef is browned. This step is crucial because browning the meat enhances its flavor and helps to build a robust base for the soup. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and fry until it is browned and fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Once the garlic is cooked, transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot or a stockpot on the stove.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the peeled and diced Russet potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. The potatoes will absorb the broth’s flavors and help thicken the soup as they cook. Next, add the frozen vegetable mix, dried basil, and parsley flakes. These herbs add a touch of freshness and aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the beef and potatoes.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
If you’re using a crockpot, cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you prefer the stovetop method, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender and starting to dissolve slightly. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the potatoes become soft and creamy.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
To give the soup its creamy texture, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup a rich, velvety consistency.
Step 6: Add Velveeta Cheese
Finally, add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the soup. Stir occasionally until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. The Velveeta not only adds a creamy texture but also a slight cheesy flavor that makes the soup irresistible. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. This Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can also serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a more complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra touch.
Tips and Variations
- Meat Variations: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a more indulgent flavor, try using Italian sausage.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas. Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen, but they might require a longer cooking time.
- Cheese: While Velveeta is perfect for a smooth and creamy texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Broth: If you want a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs. Just remember to add them towards the end of the cooking process to retain their vibrant flavor.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. The ground beef adds protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. The added vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, making this soup a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
The Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is a perfect dish for cold days when you need something warm and comforting. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and rich flavors make it a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. The recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. So, next time you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, give this Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup a try. You won’t be disappointed!
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Nothing beats a bowl of Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup on a chilly day! 🥣
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for cold weather. This creamy potato and hamburger soup combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy broth, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 medium white onion, peeled and diced
1 large garlic clove, minced
6 cups chicken broth
6 cups peeled & diced Russet potatoes
2 cups frozen vegetable mix
3 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
1 1/2 cups milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, fry the ground beef and onions until the onions are soft and the ground beef is browned. Drain the grease.
Add Garlic: Fry the garlic until browned and fragrant. Add the beef mixture to a crockpot or a stockpot on the stove.
Add Potatoes and Broth: Add in the potatoes, broth, vegetables, basil, and parsley.
Cook: Cook in the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours, on high for 3-4 hours, or simmer on the stove until the potatoes are tender and starting to dissolve slightly.
Thicken Soup: Whisk the cornstarch into the milk, then whisk into the soup. Add the Velveeta and let it melt, stirring occasionally. When it’s melted in completely, spoon into bowls and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg