When the weather turns chilly and you crave something warm and comforting, nothing beats a bowl of creamy potato and hamburger soup. This hearty soup combines the flavors of lean ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this comforting soup, along with some tips and variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
To make Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup, you will need the following 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 and diced Russet potatoes
- 2 cups of your favorite frozen vegetable mix
- 3 teaspoons dried basil (or 1 ½ teaspoons if you prefer)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced onions to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft and the ground beef is browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is browned and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot or a large stockpot on the stove.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the peeled and diced potatoes, chicken broth, frozen vegetable mix, dried basil, and parsley flakes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. The chicken broth serves as the base for the soup, providing a rich, savory flavor that complements the beef and vegetables.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
If using a crockpot, cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If cooking on the stove, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender and starting to dissolve slightly. This should take about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Add Milk and Cornstarch
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the soup, giving it a creamy consistency. Slowly whisk the milk mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the pot. Stir the soup occasionally until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. The Velveeta adds a rich, creamy texture and a delicious cheesy flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
Step 7: Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. This creamy potato and hamburger soup is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
While the basic recipe for Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is delicious on its own, there are several tips and variations you can try to customize it to your taste:
Tips
- Use High-Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use high-quality lean ground beef. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add more herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Add More Vegetables: If you like, you can add more vegetables to the soup, such as celery, carrots, or spinach. Simply chop and add them with the other vegetables.
Variations
- Bacon Potato Soup: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup for an extra layer of flavor. You can stir it in at the end or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeno or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup.
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, in place of Velveeta for a different cheesy flavor.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top the soup with your favorite loaded baked potato toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and bacon bits.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade soup. This creamy potato and hamburger soup is no exception. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it the perfect meal for a cold day or when you’re craving something comforting. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy cheese creates a soup that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
- With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- In a Bread Bowl: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in a bread bowl.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, you can add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. By following this simple recipe and incorporating some of the tips and variations, you can create a meal that’s uniquely yours and perfect for your family’s taste. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove or crockpot, and enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade creamy potato and hamburger soup.