There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of creamy potato and hamburger soup on a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a rich, velvety broth that’s guaranteed to satisfy. It’s a true family favorite, perfect for those nights when you crave something cozy and simple.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly cold winter when I needed a quick and filling meal that could please everyone at the table. It’s now a go-to dinner staple in our home, loved for its creamy texture and unbeatable flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite comfort food. This creamy potato and hamburger soup delivers the perfect balance of richness, flavor, and simplicity.

First, it’s a breeze to make. With just one pot and minimal prep work, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to bring this dish together effortlessly.

The flavor combination is another reason to love it. The creamy base, paired with the savory beef and tender potatoes, creates a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

This recipe is also wonderfully budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, you can create a hearty meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s versatile. Whether you want to add your favorite vegetables, use ground turkey instead of beef, or tweak the seasonings to suit your tastes, this soup adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this creamy potato and hamburger soup lies in its humble, everyday ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich and satisfying flavor that makes this dish irresistible.

Ground beef is the star of the show, bringing a deep, savory flavor to the soup. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the soup from becoming too greasy while still providing plenty of flavor.

Potatoes are the backbone of this dish. Russet potatoes work best because they break down slightly during cooking, helping to thicken the soup while remaining tender. Peel and dice them into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.

Onions and garlic create the flavor base, adding depth and aroma to the soup. Use yellow onions for their mild sweetness, and be sure to finely mince the garlic for even distribution.

Chicken or beef broth forms the base of the soup. I typically use chicken broth for a lighter flavor, but beef broth will create a deeper, heartier taste if you prefer.

Heavy cream adds the luxurious creaminess that makes this soup so comforting. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the soup won’t be quite as rich.

Special equipment isn’t necessary for this recipe, but a sturdy large pot or Dutch oven will make cooking and cleanup a breeze.

How To Make This Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup

Making this soup is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting meal that’s ready in no time.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon, and cook until fully browned. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef and set it aside, leaving behind a small amount of grease in the pot.

In the same pot, sauté the onions over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Next, add the potatoes, broth, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which typically takes 15-20 minutes.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash some of them. This step helps thicken the soup while leaving plenty of chunks for texture.

Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This creamy potato and hamburger soup is perfect for meal prep or leftovers, as it stores beautifully.

To store in the refrigerator, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals, to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still delivers great flavor.
Add extra vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or frozen peas to boost the soup’s nutritional value and texture.
Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more unique flavor.
If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
Experiment with seasonings. Add a dash of smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a flavorful twist.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This soup is forgiving and allows for endless customization. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own.