Are you looking for a cozy, hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth on chilly days? Look no further! Hamburger Potato Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. This one-pot wonder is perfect for family dinners, or to enjoy while snuggled up on the couch with a good book or movie. With a delightful mix of flavors and textures, this soup checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Why should you try Hamburger Potato Soup? Let’s break it down:
- Hearty Ingredients: This soup combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and hearty vegetables, creating a filling meal in every bowl.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, making it a great option for using what you have on hand.
- Great for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to whip up your Hamburger Potato Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose your preferred level of fat, but about 80% lean is a good balance.
- 1 medium onion: Chopped finely to add sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 2-3 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the soup with delicious flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer less salt.
- 4 medium potatoes: Peeled and diced; Yukon Gold or Russet work well.
- 2 carrots: Chopped; they add sweetness and color to the soup.
- 2-3 stalks celery: Chopped; a classic addition that brings crunch.
- 1 cup milk: Whole or 2% milk will give the soup a creamy texture.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Optional garnishes: Chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the diced potatoes and stir well. Let the pot simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the Milk
Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk. Allow the soup to heat through, but do not let it boil after adding the milk.
5. Season to Taste
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference. This is the moment to add any additional herbs or spices you might like—perhaps a dash of paprika or Italian seasoning!
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot in bowls, and top with your choice of garnishes, such as chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
This soup is substantial enough to stand alone, but you can always serve it with:
- Crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
- Side salads for a refreshing contrast.
- Your favorite crackers for added crunch.
Storage Tips
Leftover Hamburger Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, feel free to add a splash of extra broth or milk to loosen it up.
Helpful Tips
Here are a few extra tips to make your Hamburger Potato Soup the best it can be:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables create the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a fork to create a creamy texture.
- Consider adding other veggies: Frozen corn, green beans, or peas can make a wonderful addition.
- Spice it up: For those who enjoy a kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeños can bring heat to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Hamburger Potato Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables on the stove first. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients (except milk), and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the milk before serving.
Can I freeze Hamburger Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra broth or milk if necessary.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this soup?
A fresh garden salad or a side of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Hamburger Potato Soup. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the soup nicely.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Sure! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice.
How can I make this soup lighter?
For a lighter version, try using lean ground turkey or chicken, low-fat milk or even a dairy alternative, and add more vegetables to bulk it up without the calories.
Conclusion
There you have it! Hamburger Potato Soup is an easy, customizable dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavor make it a favorite among families and busy individuals alike. Whether you’re serving it for a large gathering or just for yourself, this soup is sure to please. Remember to embrace your creativity in the kitchen—feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste, and don’t hesitate to include those loveable leftovers. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious soup, and watch it become a staple in your home!
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Savory Hamburger Potato Soup Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Warm up with our savory Hamburger Potato Soup the ultimate comfort food delight thats hearty delicious and easy to make for any occasion
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400 calories
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g