Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

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Hearty, Creamy, and Comforting—The Ultimate Weeknight Soup

Few soups hit the perfect balance between comfort, flavor, and simplicity like creamy potato and hamburger soup. This humble, down-home favorite is a hearty and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you grew up on it or are trying it for the first time, this recipe brings serious nostalgic vibes with every spoonful.

At its core, this soup is about turning basic ingredients into something extraordinary. Ground beef, potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery come together in a creamy, seasoned broth to create a bowl of pure comfort. And unlike more complicated soups that demand specialty ingredients or hours of simmering, this one comes together quickly with items you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.

The star of this soup is the creamy broth. It’s rich without being overly heavy and is infused with the savory flavor of browned ground beef and tender vegetables. The potatoes cook down slightly, lending body and thickness, while a splash of cream or milk at the end gives it that irresistible velvety finish.

What makes this soup so popular is its versatility. You can add corn, peas, or green beans for extra color and texture. Some folks even toss in a bit of shredded cheese for an indulgent twist. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or stretch a pound of ground beef to feed a hungry crowd.

Another bonus? It’s incredibly kid-friendly. The familiar flavors of ground beef and creamy potatoes are universally loved, making it a hit for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers make for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

This dish is often associated with cold weather and cozy nights, but it’s truly a year-round winner. Light enough not to weigh you down, but hearty enough to keep you full, it’s the kind of meal that becomes a weekly staple once you’ve had it.

You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to master this soup. Simple techniques like sautéing aromatics and simmering potatoes until tender are all it takes. It’s beginner-friendly and reliable—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays alike.

A little seasoning goes a long way here. Garlic, thyme, and a touch of smoked paprika bring depth to the dish, while salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors. The beef adds umami richness, and the vegetables lend a subtle sweetness that balances everything out.

If you’re watching your diet, you can lighten it up by using ground turkey and low-fat milk, but we think a little indulgence now and then is good for the soul. This version skips pork and bacon altogether and keeps things simple, clean, and satisfying.

Best of all, this soup is a one-pot wonder. Minimal cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this soup is sure to be met with empty bowls and satisfied smiles.

Creamy potato and hamburger soup is one of those meals that makes people feel cared for. It’s cozy, nourishing, and full of flavor—comfort food at its best. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic.

So grab your favorite soup pot and get ready to stir up something truly heartwarming. This recipe just might become your new go-to comfort dish.

Servings

4–6 servings

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in potatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in milk or cream. If you want a thicker soup, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
• Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with nourishing ingredients. This one-pot wonder is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for busy families. A true classic comfort dish.

Summary

Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Easy, filling, and absolutely delicious.