There’s nothing quite like the rich, comforting aroma of a hot bowl of soup warming your kitchen on a chilly evening. As I stirred the pot of my Easy Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup, I couldn’t help but imagine the smiles around the dinner table once everyone took their first sip. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, combining tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and a creamy broth that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.

Perfect for those busy weeknights or when the cold weather has us craving something hearty, this dish comes together in under an hour. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable; whether you’re looking to spice things up or lighten the meal a bit, I’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s bring some comforting vibes to your table with this delightful soup!

Why is Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup a Must-Make?

Comforting Delight: This soup embodies warmth in every spoonful, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick Prep: In under an hour, you can serve a wholesome meal that feels like a home-cooked treasure.
Family-Friendly: With its hearty flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Choice: Easily swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs, like using turkey in place of beef for a lighter option.
Meal Perfection: Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete and satisfying dinner option.
This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is a real crowd-pleaser! For even more ideas, check out my tips on dinner pairings.

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and richness to the soup; can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Ground Beef – Provides protein and a savory base; use lean ground beef to reduce fat content or replace with ground turkey for a healthier twist.
• Onion – Offers depth and sweetness when sautéed; substitute with shallots for a more delicate flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the soup’s aroma and taste; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; can replace with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Celery – Gives a crunchy texture and mild flavor; omit if not available or replace with additional carrot.
• Potatoes – Acts as the bulk of the soup, providing heartiness; Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well, while sweet potatoes can serve as an alternative.

For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust to taste.
• Dried Basil – Adds herbaceous tones; fresh basil can be substituted for a fresher flavor.

For Thickening and Creaminess
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the broth for a creamy texture; can be replaced with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth – Acts as the liquid base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Whole Milk – Contributes to the creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for richer texture or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor depth; swap with Monterey Jack or a vegan cheese for alternate diets.

This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

How to Make Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Once it reaches a golden brown, drain the excess grease and set the bacon aside, letting those smoky flavors linger in the pot.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the same pot and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Remove and set aside, keeping that delicious beefy goodness for later.
Sauté the veggies: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, celery, and potatoes. Sauté these colorful veggies until the onions become soft and translucent—about 5 minutes should do it.
Season the mix: Incorporate salt, pepper, and dried basil into the mixture, giving it a gentle stir for about 2 minutes. This step boosts the aroma and flavor, inviting everyone to the table!
Make a roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux. This thickening agent adds creaminess to the soup, setting the stage for goodness!
Add the broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the soup thickens and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Combine the ingredients: Return the cooked bacon and ground beef to the pot, stirring in the whole milk. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully.
Melt the cheese: Just before serving, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup, creating a rich and comforting final touch.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup?

Warm up your dining experience with delightful sides that complement this hearty soup beautifully.

Crusty Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping, soaking up the creamy broth and adding a satisfying crunch.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens and crunchy veggies brings a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant side offers a nice green pop and a boost of nutrients, balancing the hearty flavors of the meal.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are an inviting addition, perfect for savoring every drop of the creamy potato hamburger soup.
Cheesy Cornbread: The sweetness and moisture of cornbread, paired with melted cheese, creates a comforting match that your family will adore.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; its warm spices and sweetness beautifully balance the savory soup.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink choice that cools and complements the soup, enhancing the comfort food experience with pleasant herbal notes.

Let these pairings enhance your cozy gathering, making your meal truly memorable!

Expert Tips for Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy to ensure maximum flavor infusion into your soup. It makes a delightful difference!
Prevent Sticking: Stir the mixture regularly while cooking; this helps prevent sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot, ensuring a smooth soup.
Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer patiently, as this lets the flavors develop beautifully over time, resulting in a richer taste.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap vegetables or proteins to suit your family’s preferences while still enjoying this creamy potato hamburger soup delightfully.
Check Consistency: If the soup gets too thick, gradually stir in a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup

Fridge: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the fresh flavors remain intact for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to regain creaminess.

Note: Be cautious when reheating; stir frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot, maintaining that luscious texture of your creamy potato hamburger soup!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (like onions, celery, and potatoes) and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and maintain their crunch. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and ground beef ahead of time—simply store them in airtight containers to retain that delightful flavor. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the prepped veggies and continue with the recipe. This not only saves you precious time during busy weeknights but also fills your kitchen with that comforting aroma when it’s time to enjoy your lovingly prepared soup!

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Variations

Elevate your soup experience by trying these customizations for a delicious twist or a dietary alternative!

Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk and opt for a vegan cheese for a creamy yet dairy-free version.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color.

Savor the heartiness while packing in those veggies—it’s a win-win!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken the broth without gluten, keeping your soup creamy and delicious!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist that warms both the soup and your soul.

A little heat can take your comfort food to exciting new levels!

Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that beautifully complements the flavors in the soup.
Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor and heartiness.

Explore different proteins or seasonings and discover your personal favorite!

Sweet Potato Variation: Substitute half of the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, adding a natural sweetness and a colorful touch to your soup.
Creamy Tomato Blend: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes or some tomato paste for a richer, slightly tangy flavor profile.

With these variations, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy your Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup!

Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture and heartiness. If you’re looking for a sweeter twist, sweet potatoes can also be a delightful alternative. Just make sure to cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup?
To keep your leftover soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors for those quick and satisfying lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Can I freeze Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! Pour the soup into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just leave some room at the top of the container for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, stirring in a little extra milk or broth if it’s too thick.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find that your soup has thickened too much, it’s an easy fix! Simply add in a bit more chicken broth or milk slowly while stirring until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. The key is to adjust gradually to avoid making it too thin.

Is this soup suitable for my dietary needs?
This Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup is highly customizable! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute lean ground turkey for beef, use gluten-free flour, or switch to almond milk for a dairy-free version. Always keep an eye on any specific allergies, particularly with cheese toppings or broth choices.

What should I serve with this soup?
For the perfect pairing, I often suggest serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the meal. This not only makes it heartier but also elevates the overall dining experience. Enjoy!