There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. When you need a meal that’s hearty, creamy, and satisfying, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup hits all the right notes. This one-pot wonder combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a rich, velvety broth that’s perfect for cozy nights in or feeding the whole family.

With every spoonful, you get a mouthful of creamy, cheesy goodness with the perfect balance of hearty beef and soft potatoes. Whether you’re warming up after a cold day or looking for the ultimate comfort food, this soup is a go-to recipe you’ll make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and everyday groceries you likely already have.
- One-pot comfort: Easy to make with minimal cleanup required.
- Family-friendly: A cozy dish everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults.
- Customizable: Switch up the cheeses, add veggies, or top it with bacon and green onions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef: Lean ground beef (85% lean) works best for flavor without excess grease.
- Potatoes: Russet for creaminess or Yukon Gold for buttery, tender chunks.
- Cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded melts smoothly and adds rich flavor.
- Broth: Chicken or beef broth for a flavorful base.
- Onion and garlic: Aromatic essentials for building flavor.
- Milk and cream: Create a velvety, rich soup.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley.
Optional Toppings: Crispy bacon, green onions, sour cream, or extra shredded cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
2. Brown the beef:
Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add potatoes and broth:
Stir in diced potatoes and your choice of broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Add dairy:
Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Keep the heat low to prevent boiling after adding dairy.
5. Melt the cheese:
Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. This creates a creamy, cheesy soup base.
6. Final touches:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer a few more minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
7. Serve and enjoy:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with bacon bits, green onions, or extra cheese for a restaurant-quality finish.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Blend for extra creaminess: Puree a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender and stir it back in.
- Avoid curdling: Always lower the heat before adding cheese or cream.
- Make ahead & reheat: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze without the dairy, then add cream and cheese when reheating for the best texture.
Variations to Try
- Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Stir in crispy bacon and extra sharp cheddar for a loaded flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty lentils.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- Cornbread or buttered dinner rolls
- A crisp green salad for balance
Hosting a gathering? Set up a soup bar with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon, sour cream, chives, or hot sauce for a fun and customizable meal.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain fat if necessary.
- Add potatoes and broth. Simmer 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk and cream. Lower heat to avoid boiling.
- Gradually add shredded cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper. Simmer a few more minutes to thicken.
- Serve hot with toppings of choice.