There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup to soothe your soul on a chilly day. This hearty dish brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy broth in perfect harmony—a true comfort food classic.

I first whipped up this recipe on a snowy afternoon when I needed something quick, filling, and delicious to please my family. It’s since become one of our go-to meals during the colder months, with everyone clamoring for seconds. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cold-weather recipe. This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is more than just a comforting dish—it’s a lifesaver for busy nights and hungry families.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and minimal prep, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you don’t want to compromise on flavor.

Not only is this soup hearty and filling, but it’s also budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and pantry staples, you can create a delicious meal that won’t break the bank.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out the protein, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, this recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Finally, the creamy texture and robust flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient serves a purpose, coming together to create a soup that’s both rich and satisfying.

Ground Beef: The foundation of the soup’s savory flavor. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and richness. You can also opt for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor elevate the soup. If you don’t have Yukon Gold, Russets work just as well, but they may break down more during cooking.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients lay the flavor groundwork for the soup. Sautéing them with the beef ensures every spoonful is packed with savory goodness.
Chicken Broth: The base of the soup’s broth. For a deeper flavor, consider using beef broth or even a mix of both. If you’re looking to cut back on sodium, choose a low-sodium option.
Heavy Cream: The key to the soup’s luxurious creaminess. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the texture won’t be quite as velvety.
Cheddar Cheese: Stirring in shredded cheddar at the end adds a sharp, tangy richness that takes the soup to the next level. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting consistency.

You’ll also need a large pot or Dutch oven to make this soup—a one-pot recipe that makes cleanup a breeze.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is as simple as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this comforting dish.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside, leaving a bit of the drippings in the pot for flavor.

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing them in the beef drippings until they’re soft and fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base of your soup, so don’t rush it—about 3-5 minutes should do the trick.

Next, toss in your peeled and cubed potatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash a few of them directly in the pot. This creates a thicker, creamier consistency while leaving plenty of chunks for texture.

Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, along with heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve your soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a slice of warm, crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup stores beautifully. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezer: This soup freezes well, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore the soup’s creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat entirely and add extra veggies like carrots, celery, and peas. Use vegetable broth as the base.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Lighter Option: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even plain Greek yogurt. Use lean ground beef or turkey to reduce the fat content.
Extra Cheesy: Stir in a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for added depth of flavor.

Experiment with these variations to suit your preferences, and don’t be afraid to get creative. This soup is forgiving and adaptable, making it a great canvas for your culinary imagination.

Warm, comforting, and oh-so-easy to make, this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is bound to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re serving it to your family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, one thing’s for sure—you’ll want to make it again and again!