Hamburger Potato Soup

When you need a hearty, comforting meal that warms both the body and soul, Hamburger Potato Soup is the ultimate weeknight winner. Packed with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, rich broth, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, this one-pot recipe is the perfect blend of cozy and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare on the stovetop, but it also adapts seamlessly to the slow cooker, making it incredibly versatile for any schedule.

This cheesy ground beef potato soup transforms humble ingredients into something special. Think of it as a fusion between a classic potato soup and a loaded cheeseburger—creamy, savory, and layered with flavor. You start by browning the beef with onion and garlic, simmer it with diced potatoes and broth, then pour in a velvety homemade cheese sauce made with real butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar. It all comes together into a rich, golden soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.

What makes this recipe stand out is its ability to be both crowd-pleasing and comforting while using budget-friendly pantry staples. Ground beef, potatoes, and cheese are ingredients you likely already have on hand. Add a bit of paprika, a touch of butter, and optional turkey bacon, and you’ve got a meal that rivals any diner-style classic. You can explore similar variations of cheesy soups and beef stews on comfort food boards filled with cozy dinner ideas perfect for cold nights.

Whether you’re serving this to kids after a long day, preparing it ahead in your crockpot, or just craving something simple and indulgent, Hamburger Potato Soup delivers every time. It’s thick, cheesy, and filling—exactly what comfort food should be.

Why This Is the Ultimate Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

There are plenty of potato soup recipes out there, but what makes this Hamburger Potato Soup the ultimate version is its rich, creamy base paired with hearty, seasoned ground beef and real shredded cheddar cheese. It’s like wrapping your favorite cheeseburger in a cozy soup blanket. The balance of textures—from tender potatoes to melted cheese and savory beef—creates the kind of spoonful that keeps you coming back for more.

Most potato soups lean heavily on cream or butter alone, but this version starts with a flavorful beef base, enhanced by sautéed onions and garlic. That simple step creates layers of flavor right from the beginning. From there, the addition of a homemade roux (butter and flour cooked together) helps thicken the soup naturally before the milk and cheese are added. It’s thick and creamy but still light enough to enjoy as a full meal. You can explore how roux works to build flavor and body by reading more about soup techniques.

Another reason this soup stands out is how flexible it is. You can make it stovetop in just 30 minutes or let it simmer low and slow in the crockpot for that extra-rich flavor. Either way, it delivers that classic cheeseburger soup vibe with pantry-friendly ingredients like broth, milk, potatoes, and cheese. You can also adapt it to include extra vegetables like carrots, corn, or celery without losing that hearty base.

Optional toppings like turkey bacon and green onions take this soup over the top. The bacon adds a smoky crunch that plays perfectly with the creamy broth, while the green onion brightens up every bite. If you’re looking for more ways to serve ground beef creatively, check out these ground beef dinner ideas that highlight how versatile this humble ingredient can be in soups, stews, and skillet meals.

This soup delivers on comfort, flavor, and simplicity—everything a great family meal should be. It’s especially good for meal prep, since it reheats beautifully and thickens even more overnight. When paired with crusty bread or a simple green salad, it becomes a full dinner that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. If you love the cozy appeal of loaded potato soup, this version with beef and cheese is a natural next favorite.

Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup relies on straightforward, accessible ingredients—each chosen for comfort, flavor, and texture. From creamy potatoes to savory ground beef and sharp cheddar, every bite is designed to feel like warm, familiar comfort food. Here’s a full breakdown of the core ingredients, plus options for substitutions if you want to switch things up or adapt to dietary needs.

Core Ingredients

• Ground Beef
  The heart of this soup. Use 80/20 for rich flavor, or leaner beef for a lighter version. You can also substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lower-fat alternative.

• Potatoes
  Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly as they cook, creating a creamier texture. Yukon Golds also work well for a smoother bite. Dice them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

• Cheddar Cheese
  Shredded cheddar cheese adds richness, sharpness, and that unmistakable cheesy flavor. Use medium or sharp cheddar, or substitute part of it with Monterey Jack or Colby for a creamier melt. Learn more about cheddar and its varieties here.

• Milk or Half-and-Half
  Adds the creamy element. Whole milk creates a smooth base, while half-and-half makes it richer. For a lighter soup, use 2% milk. For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened oat or almond milk and vegan cheese.

• Broth
  Both chicken broth and beef broth work. Chicken broth keeps the soup light, while beef broth intensifies the savory, “hamburger” flavor. Use low-sodium versions so you can control the salt level.

• All-Purpose Flour & Butter
  These two create a roux, which thickens the soup. If gluten-free, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour. Vegan butter can also work if needed.

• Onion & Garlic
  Essential aromatics that build depth. Use yellow or white onion, and fresh or pre-minced garlic. Sautéing these with the beef infuses the base with flavor from the start.

• Paprika, Salt, and Pepper
  Paprika adds color and a mild smoky warmth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste once the cheese is added, as cheddar can be naturally salty.

• Optional: Turkey Bacon & Green Onion
  Turkey bacon gives a smoky, crispy finish. Green onions add freshness. These are especially great if you’re trying to mimic the flavors of a loaded baked potato or burger. Check out bacon and soup pairings for more topping inspiration.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetables: Add chopped carrots, celery, or corn for a veggie-packed version.

• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Pepper Jack or a blend for heat and variety.

• Spices: Add Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper for extra flavor depth.

• Protein: Swap beef with sausage or a plant-based ground meat for a unique spin.

Whether you’re customizing or sticking to the classic version, this soup offers flexibility without losing its creamy, cheesy core. For more cozy ideas, explore potato-based comfort soups and mix up your weeknight dinner routine.

Cooking Tools & Stovetop vs. Crockpot Tips

Making Hamburger Potato Soup is easy with minimal tools, and the choice between stovetop and crockpot cooking gives you flexibility based on your schedule. Both methods yield a thick, cheesy, and hearty soup that’s perfect for cozy nights. Here’s how to make the most of each approach.

Essential Tools

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  For stovetop cooking, a large pot or Dutch oven provides even heat and space for simmering all ingredients.

• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Safe Spatula
  Useful for browning ground beef and stirring the soup without scratching your cookware.

• Whisk
  Needed for the roux and cheese sauce to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.

• Ladle
  Makes serving easier, especially when portioning into bowls or containers for meal prep.

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
  For hands-off cooking. A 4- to 6-quart slow cooker is ideal. Choose one with a sauté function if you want to brown the meat in the same pot.

Stovetop Method Tips

• Brown the beef first and drain the fat to prevent greasy soup.

• Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot to build flavor.

• Add diced potatoes and broth, then simmer uncovered until the potatoes are fork-tender.

• Make the roux in a separate saucepan, then whisk in milk and cheese before adding it to the soup.

• Stir everything together and simmer gently to meld the flavors.

Crockpot Method Tips

• Brown the beef and aromatics in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds flavor and prevents an overly greasy broth.

• Add potatoes and broth, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until potatoes are soft.

• Prepare the cheese sauce separately, then stir it into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.

• Stir in turkey bacon and toppings at the end for best texture and freshness.

For more insights on when to use a slow cooker vs. stovetop, check out this slow cooking technique guide.

Whichever method you choose, the soup delivers bold, cheesy flavor and creamy texture. And with only one main pot to clean, it’s a win for busy households. For visual guides and inspiration, explore creamy soup prep boards filled with tips, garnishes, and serving ideas.