Creamy Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup – Delicious & Simple

Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a culinary masterpiece that combines the best elements of a classic burger and comforting potato soup. I am absolutely thrilled to share this incredible recipe with you today, one that promises to become an instant family favorite in your home. This delightful creation taps into the heart of American comfort food, reminiscent of simpler times and cherished family dinners where hearty, satisfying dishes were the star. While its exact origin story might be debated, its universal appeal as a “homestyle” hero is undeniable, bringing generations together around a shared, delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Creation

Imagine sinking your spoon into a rich, savory broth brimming with perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender chunks of potato, and a generous swirl of gooey, melted cheese. The delightful textures and robust flavors make this Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup a true standout. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste and satisfying creaminess but also for its wonderful convenience. It’s a fantastic one-pot wonder, making weeknight meal prep a breeze and leaving you with minimal cleanup. It truly embodies the perfect balance of indulgence and practicality, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a delightful potluck contribution. I promise you, this soup is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Beef and Aromatics:
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (I prefer 85/15 or 90/10 for a good balance of flavor and less grease. This is the “hamburger” part of our amazing Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup!)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (This provides a crucial aromatic base for our soup, offering a sweet and pungent foundation.)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (Garlic adds a wonderful depth and warmth that’s essential in any savory dish, especially one as comforting as this.)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced (For a touch of natural sweetness, vibrant color, and an extra layer of nutrition.)
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced (Celery rounds out the classic mirepoix flavor profile, adding a subtle earthy note and crisp texture when raw, softening beautifully in the soup.)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (For sautéing our finely diced vegetables and creating the initial base for our roux.)
• For the Potatoes:
  • 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes (Russets are my go-to for soups because they have a high starch content which helps them break down slightly as they cook, contributing to the creamy, hearty texture of our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup. You could also use Yukon Golds for a slightly firmer potato texture that still holds its shape well.)
• For the Liquid Base:
  • 6 cups (48 oz) low-sodium beef broth (This is the backbone of our soup, providing rich, savory flavor. Choose a good quality broth for the best results.)
  • 1 cup whole milk (Adds richness and helps create that smooth, creamy consistency without being overly heavy.)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (For an extra luxurious, velvety mouthfeel that truly elevates the soup to comfort food perfection.)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes (A truly secret ingredient for incredible tang, an additional layer of creaminess, and a lovely smooth texture.)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish (No “Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup” would be complete without plenty of delicious, melty cheddar! Sharp cheddar provides the most robust flavor.)
• For Seasoning and Thickening:
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (Our essential thickening agent, used to create a roux that gives the soup a beautiful, rich body.)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (Adds a fantastic umami punch and a subtle tangy complexity that really enhances the beef flavor.)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (A classic herb that pairs wonderfully with beef, potatoes, and dairy, bringing a warm, earthy aroma.)
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed (Just a hint of rosemary goes a long way to elevate the flavor profile, adding a fragrant, piney note. Make sure to crush it to release its oils!)
  • 1 bay leaf (Infuses a subtle, complex, slightly floral aroma into the broth as it simmers.)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste (Always start with a baseline and then adjust to your personal preference; the saltiness of your broth can affect this.)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste (Freshly ground pepper provides the best flavor and a lovely aromatic kick.)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (Adds a pop of vibrant green color and a fresh, clean finish to each bowl.)

Preparing the Beef and Aromatics: The Flavor Foundation

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

   In a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or stockpot, which will be our main vessel for this magnificent Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup, place your 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Your primary goal here is to achieve a beautiful, even brown on all sides of the beef. This browning step is absolutely crucial for developing a deep, rich, savory flavor in the soup. Don’t rush it! We’re not just cooking it through; we’re caramelizing the proteins on the surface of the meat, which creates those wonderful, complex savory notes (the Maillard reaction). Continue cooking and stirring frequently for about 7-10 minutes, or until no pink remains and the beef is nicely browned. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess grease. Even with lean ground beef, there will likely be some fat rendered, and we want to remove most of it to keep our soup from being overly greasy and heavy. A simple way to do this is to tilt the pot to one side and use a large spoon or ladle to scoop out the accumulated fat. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the beef to a colander lined with a few layers of paper towels to absorb the fat, but be sure to return it to the pot promptly after draining so we can continue building our flavors.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   Once the ground beef is drained and back in the pot (or if you drained it by tilting, it’s still there), ensure the pot is still over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the pot with the beef. Once the butter has melted and is gently bubbling, add your finely diced large yellow onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. This trio, often affectionately called a mirepoix, is the aromatic backbone of countless delicious dishes, forming a fundamental flavor base, and our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup is no exception. Stir these vegetables frequently, allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness and wonderfully fragrant aromas. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions become beautifully translucent and the carrots and celery are tender-crisp. You’ll not only notice the vibrant colors intensifying but also the entire kitchen filling with a wonderful, comforting smell – that’s a clear sign you’re on the right track and building fantastic layers of flavor.

3. Infuse with Garlic:

   Now, it’s time for the potent and essential flavor of garlic! Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot with the beef and softened vegetables. Stir it in thoroughly, ensuring it gets distributed throughout the mixture. Be very mindful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic can become quite bitter and unpleasant, which would be a shame after all our careful preparation. Cook for just about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is wonderfully fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when you can really smell that characteristic, warm garlic aroma wafting up from the pot. This quick cooking time ensures the garlic’s potent flavor is fully released without overcooking or turning acrid, contributing perfectly to the complex profile of our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup.

Building the Soup Base: Creating Richness and Flavor

4. Create the Roux (Thickener):

   With the beef and vegetables cooking gently and the garlic fragrant, it’s time for a critical step in achieving the perfect texture for our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup: creating a roux. Sprinkle the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour directly over the mixture in the pot. Stir continuously with your wooden spoon or spatula for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour is completely incorporated and coats all the ingredients. This is a crucial step for thickening our soup! We’re essentially toasting the flour, cooking out its raw starchy taste, and combining it with any remaining fat to create what’s known as a roux. This flour-fat mixture will be the foundation for the soup’s beautiful, velvety, and smooth texture. As you stir, the flour will absorb any remaining fat and coat the beef and vegetables, forming a light paste. It’s important not to let it sit too long without stirring, as the flour can burn easily and develop an off-flavor.

5. Deglaze and Add Broth:

   Now, we begin to add the liquid. Gradually pour in 2 cups of the low-sodium beef broth, stirring constantly and vigorously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming. This initial addition of liquid, combined with vigorous whisking, is key to dissolving the roux smoothly into the broth. It’s important to add the liquid slowly and whisk thoroughly to ensure a smooth, lump-free base. As the broth heats and combines with the flour-coated ingredients, you’ll notice the mixture beginning to thicken almost immediately. Once those first two cups are smoothly incorporated and the mixture is thickening, slowly pour in the remaining 4 cups of beef broth, still stirring periodically to ensure everything is well combined. Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly. The aroma at this stage is already starting to hint at the deliciousness to come for our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup, promising a deeply savory and comforting meal.

6. Introduce Key Seasonings:

   Now it’s time to really infuse our soup with deep, comforting flavors that will define its character. Add the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of crushed dried rosemary, and the single bay leaf to the simmering broth. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. The Worcestershire sauce will add a wonderful umami depth and a subtle tang that complements the beef beautifully, enhancing its savory notes. The dried thyme and rosemary provide that classic, hearty soup aroma and taste, reminiscent of home-cooked comfort. For the rosemary, I always recommend crushing it between your fingers before adding it to the pot; this releases its essential oils and maximizes its flavor contribution. Allow the soup to continue simmering gently over medium-low heat while you prepare the potatoes, letting these beautiful flavors deepen and intertwine with each other. This simmering period is where the magic truly begins to happen, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, aromatic, and incredibly flavorful broth, setting the stage for our amazing Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup.

Cooking the Potatoes: The Hearty Core of Our Soup

7. Add the Potatoes:

   Once your broth is beautifully seasoned and simmering, carefully add your 2 pounds of peeled and uniformly cubed Russet potatoes to the soup. Make sure the potato cubes are roughly ½-inch in size; this ensures they cook evenly and contributes to a pleasant, consistent texture in every spoonful of our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup. Stir the potatoes gently into the broth, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. The potatoes are the hearty carbohydrate component of this dish, providing that satisfying, wholesome bite and contributing to the overall substantial feel of the soup.

8. Simmer Until Tender:

   Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it cook. You’ll want to simmer the soup for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are wonderfully fork-tender. This means you should be able to easily pierce a potato cube with a fork without it offering much resistance. Periodically stir the soup to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure the potatoes cook evenly throughout the liquid. Keep an eye on the consistency as it simmers; if the soup seems to be thickening too much, you can add a splash more beef broth or even water to achieve your desired fluidity. Conversely, if it appears too thin, just let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate naturally. Before moving on to the next exciting step, remember to retrieve and discard the bay leaf, as its purpose of infusing flavor has now been fulfilled, and its contribution is complete.

Achieving Creaminess and Cheesiness: The Signature “Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup” Touch

9. Incorporate the Dairy Liquids:

   Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, it’s time to introduce the rich, creamy elements that will truly transform this into a decadent and comforting Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup. Slowly pour in the 1 cup of whole milk and the ½ cup of heavy cream into the soup. Stir gently and continuously to combine these luxurious liquids thoroughly with the existing broth and ingredients. It’s important at this stage to keep the heat on low, or even remove the pot from the heat momentarily, to prevent the dairy from curdling. We are aiming for a smooth, luxurious, and velvety consistency, not a broken or grainy one! Allow the soup to warm through gently for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. The milk and heavy cream will add a rich, luscious texture and a wonderful mouthfeel that truly elevates the soup from a simple hearty stew to a gourmet, satisfying experience.

10. Melt in the Cream Cheese:

    Now for one of my absolute favorite “secret” ingredients for unparalleled creaminess and a subtle, delightful tang: the cream cheese! Add the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, which you’ve cut into convenient cubes, directly into the warm soup. Stir continuously with a whisk or sturdy spoon until the cream cheese has completely melted and is fully incorporated into the soup, leaving absolutely no lumps. This might take a few minutes of patient and persistent stirring, but trust me, it’s worth every second for the incredible texture it provides. The cream cheese not only adds an incredible richness and silkiness to the soup but also contributes a slight tangy note that perfectly balances the savory beef and potatoes. It truly makes the soup feel exceptionally luxurious and is a key contributor to the “Cheesy” aspect of our Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup, adding complexity beyond just cheddar.

11. Stir in the Cheddar Cheese:

    Once the cream cheese is fully dissolved and the soup is beautifully smooth, reduce the heat to the absolute lowest possible setting, or again, remove the pot from the direct heat for a moment. Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir gently and continuously until the cheddar cheese has completely melted and is smoothly integrated into the soup, creating a uniform, cheesy consistency. The residual heat from the soup should be more than enough to melt the cheese without causing it to clump, become overly oily, or turn stringy. Adding cheese off the direct heat or on very low heat is a critical technique to help achieve that beautiful, smooth, and perfectly melty cheesy texture we’re aiming for. This step is where our “Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup” truly lives up to its name, filling the soup with that unmistakable, comforting, and robust cheddar flavor. Feel free to add a little more if you are a true cheese lover and desire an even more intense cheesy experience!

Finishing Touches and Serving: The Grand Finale

12. Adjust Seasoning to Perfection:

    Now is the critical moment to taste your magnificent Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup and adjust the seasonings to your exact preference. Add the 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings thoroughly and then taste again. Remember, everyone’s palate is different, and the initial saltiness of your beef broth can vary, so it’s absolutely essential to taste and adjust. You might find it needs a little more salt to brighten the flavors, a dash more pepper for a gentle kick, or perhaps another tiny splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost that umami depth even further. This step is crucial to ensure the soup is perfectly balanced and hits all the right flavor notes for you and your family. Don’t be afraid to season boldly, as the potatoes and dairy can sometimes mute flavors slightly, requiring a bit more seasoning to make them shine. Continue tasting and adjusting until you are completely satisfied with the flavor profile. This personal touch is what truly transforms a good recipe into a truly great, memorable dish!

13. Final Warm-Through:

    Once seasoned to your absolute liking, allow the Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup to gently warm through on low heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, just to ensure all the flavors have had a final chance to meld beautifully and the soup is piping hot throughout. It is important to avoid boiling the soup once the dairy and cheese have been added, as this can cause the soup to separate, curdle, or become grainy, ruining that luscious, creamy texture we worked so hard to achieve. A gentle simmer is all you need to maintain that perfect, velvety consistency and ensure every spoonful is wonderfully warm and comforting.

14. Garnish and Serve:

    Ladle generous portions of this incredibly rich, hearty, and comforting Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup into individual serving bowls. For a final flourish and a burst of vibrant freshness, sprinkle each bowl with a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a beautiful pop of green color but also a clean, herbaceous note that brightens the richness of the soup. You can also offer an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top for those who truly can’t get enough cheese, or even some crispy crumbled bacon for an added layer of salty flavor and textural crunch. This soup is a complete meal in itself, providing protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it incredibly satisfying. However, it also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple crisp side salad to round out the meal. Serve immediately and savor the warmth, comfort, and deep satisfaction that comes from creating such a hearty, flavorful, and absolutely delicious homemade dish!

15. Storage and Reheating (Bonus Tip!):

    If you happen to have any leftovers of this delectable Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup (a truly rare occurrence in my house, as it’s so popular!), they can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I highly recommend doing so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, to preserve the creamy texture. You might find that the soup has thickened considerably in the fridge due to the starch from the potatoes and the cheese; if so, you can thin it out with a splash of extra beef broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Again, avoid reheating at a high temperature or bringing it to a rolling boil, as this can cause the dairy to separate and compromise the texture. Many find that this soup tends to taste even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to deepen and develop, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal option for a busy week or a quick, comforting lunch!

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I genuinely hope you’ll add to your regular rotation, it’s this one. We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I firmly believe is an absolute game-changer in the realm of comfort food. This isn’t just another soup; it’s a warm, hearty embrace in a bowl, a culinary creation that perfectly marries simplicity with profound flavor. What makes this recipe an undeniable must-try is its incredible ability to evoke cherished memories of classic American home cooking, all while offering a fresh, exciting twist. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with an aroma that instantly makes everyone feel at home, drawing them to the table with anticipation.

Imagine the rich, savory depth of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender chunks of potato, and a luxuriously creamy, cheesy broth, all coming together in one harmonious spoonful. This isn’t just comfort food; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfies on every level. It’s robust enough to be a standalone meal, yet so invitingly flavorful that you’ll find yourself craving it on crisp autumn evenings, chilly winter nights, or simply when you need a little culinary hug. The beauty of this recipe lies in its approachable nature; you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to achieve spectacular results. It’s designed to be straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to produce a dish that tastes like it came from a five-star diner, but with all the love and warmth of a homemade meal.

Now, let’s talk about enhancing this already magnificent creation. While this soup is absolutely divine on its own, I’ve got some serving suggestions and variations that will take your experience from wonderful to truly unforgettable. For a classic pairing, I love serving generous bowls of this soup with a side of crusty, artisanal bread – think a warm sourdough baguette or a rustic whole-grain loaf – perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible cheesy broth. Another fantastic accompaniment is a basket of warm, buttery cornbread, which adds a lovely sweetness and texture contrast. If you’re looking for something light to balance the richness, a simple, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always a good idea. And for the ultimate comfort food pairing, I dare you to try dipping a grilled cheese sandwich into your bowl – it’s a revelation!

But the fun doesn’t stop there. One of the greatest joys of cooking is customization, and this recipe is incredibly versatile. Want to dial up the savory notes? Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce during the browning of the beef. For those who enjoy a little heat, a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a welcome kick without overwhelming the other flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your choice of cheese either! While a sharp cheddar is fantastic, a blend of Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a little Gruyere can introduce new dimensions of flavor and creaminess.

Thinking about variations? The possibilities are endless! For a leaner version, you can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, adjusting seasoning as needed. If you want to sneak in more vegetables, this soup is incredibly forgiving. I often throw in a handful of frozen corn or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and sweetness. Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach wilted in at the very end can add both nutrients and diverse textures. For an even creamier consistency, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream right before serving. And let’s not forget the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a shower of crispy bacon bits will elevate your bowl to gourmet status.

Ultimately, I truly hope you’ll give this Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup a try. It’s a recipe that has brought so much warmth and happiness to my own table, and I’m confident it will do the same for yours. Don’t wait for a special occasion; make an ordinary weeknight extraordinary with this sensational soup. I promise you won’t regret it! Once you’ve whipped up your own batch, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any exciting variations? What did your family think? Share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments below or tag me on social media. Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup

A warm hug in a bowl, this Cheesy Beef Hamburger Potato Soup combines classic burger flavors with comforting potato soup. This one-pot wonder is a perfect blend of indulgence and practicality, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
50 Minutes

Total Time
15 Minutes

Servings
6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 lb Russet potatoes, ½-inch cubes
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp crushed dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Brown 1.5 lb lean ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 large diced yellow onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Step 2
   Sprinkle ¼ cup all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetables; stir for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups low-sodium beef broth until smooth. Add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp crushed dried rosemary, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Step 3
   Add 2 lb cubed Russet potatoes to the soup. Simmer covered for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
4. Step 4
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup whole milk and ½ cup heavy cream. Add 8 oz softened, cubed cream cheese; stir continuously until completely melted and incorporated. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Step 5
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper (start with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper) to your preference. Gently warm through for 2-3 minutes, avoiding a rolling boil. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra cheddar if desired. Serve immediately.
6. Step 6
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently; thin with extra beef broth or milk if needed.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.