Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
If comfort food had a face, it would be this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup! This dish combines the richness of melted cheese, the heartiness of ground beef, and the creamy goodness of tender potatoes. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that warms your soul and fills your belly. Whether it’s a frosty evening or a lazy weekend, this soup is your perfect partner in crime for cozy indulgence.
The History of Comfort Soups
Soups have been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries, serving as a source of nourishment and comfort. The combination of potatoes and beef became popular during the Great Depression when families needed hearty, affordable meals. Adding cheese to soups likely stemmed from the post-war era, when dairy became more accessible, giving rise to recipes that embodied the richness of modern comfort food.
Benefits of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
- Nutritious and Filling: Potatoes are rich in potassium, ground beef provides protein, and cheese adds calcium.
- Comforting: Warm, creamy, and hearty, this soup is perfect for mental well-being during colder months.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for different tastes by adding veggies like carrots or corn.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a go-to family recipe.
Ingredients
Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
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Creamy & Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup whole milk
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- - Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- - Extra shredded cheese
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
Step 2: Build the Soup
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Creamy Perfection
- Incorporate Dairy: Add milk, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup thickens.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season to Taste: Add smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, bacon, or extra cheese.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 25% DV
Lovers of This Recipe
- Busy Parents: Quick to make and loved by picky eaters.
- Soup Enthusiasts: A creamy and cheesy twist on classic potato soup.
- Comfort Food Aficionados: Warm, hearty, and irresistibly indulgent.
- Cheese Lovers: An ooey-gooey paradise in every bite.
Formation Tips
- Chunky or Smooth?: Mash half the potatoes for a thicker texture or leave them chunky for a rustic feel.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a family tradition in the making. With its simple ingredients, rich flavors, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Next time the weather calls for something warm and comforting, let this soup be the answer.
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