Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese into a satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Why This Recipe Appeals
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbohydrates, this soup serves as a complete meal that satisfies hunger.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese creates a rich and soothing taste experience.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible even to novice cooks.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté the Ground Beef
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Add Aromatics
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Vegetables and Broth
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Thicken the Soup
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and milk until smooth, creating a slurry.
- Gradually pour the slurry into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- If using, add the smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions as desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Possible Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to introduce some heat.
- Bacon Addition: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Medley: Include additional vegetables like corn or peas to enhance the nutritional value.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6 servings
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef to create a lighter version of the soup.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup. Ensure all other ingredients, such as broth, are certified gluten-free.
3. Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic before transferring them to a slow cooker along with the other ingredients, except for the milk, flour, and cheese. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. In the last 30 minutes, add the milk and flour mixture and cheese, stirring until melted and the soup is thickened.
4. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
