There’s something immensely comforting about a warm bowl of hamburger potato soup, especially when the chill of autumn starts to creep into the air. It takes me back to my childhood days, when Mama Lou would call us in from playing outside, our noses red from the cold, and serve us steaming bowls of her magical soup. The aroma filled the kitchen, wrapping us in a comforting embrace that only Mama Lou’s cooking could provide. Even now, as I prepare this dish, I feel her spirit guiding my hands, reminding me of the simple joys of family and tradition.
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Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Soup
What makes this hamburger potato soup so special isn’t just the simplicity of its ingredients, but the love and nostalgia it brings with each spoonful. It’s a meal that speaks to the heart, filling you with warmth and comfort. I remember the laughter that used to echo around Mama Lou’s kitchen as my sister Ouma and I helped her peel potatoes. She’d tell us stories of her own childhood, weaving tales that seemed to make the soup taste even richer. Creating this dish in your own kitchen will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but will also invite those you love to gather around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hamburger Potato Soup
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 2 carrots, diced
You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or add some diced celery for extra flavor. Mama Lou often added a pinch of paprika for an additional depth, a tip I cherish to this day.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
Cozy Comfort in a Bowl: Savory Hamburger Potato Soup Explosion
Learn how to make delicious Hamburger Potato Soup. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 2 carrots, diced
You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or add some diced celery for extra flavor. Mama Lou often added a pinch of paprika for an additional depth, a tip I cherish to this day.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned.
- Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, if using, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, returning the beef to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of additional cheese on top if desired.
Mama Lou always said that a good soup needs patience. Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmony that’s well worth the wait.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Hamburger Potato Soup
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned.
- Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, if using, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, returning the beef to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of additional cheese on top if desired.
Mama Lou always said that a good soup needs patience. Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmony that’s well worth the wait.
Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Potato Soup
To make your hamburger potato soup even more delightful, here are a few tips that have been passed down from Mama Lou’s kitchen:
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes work wonderfully as they break down slightly, adding to the soup’s creaminess. For a firmer texture, try Yukon Gold.
- Don’t rush the browning: Allow the beef to brown fully to develop a deeper flavor. This step adds a wonderful base to your soup.
- Customize to taste: Feel free to add a splash of cream for a richer soup or a handful of spinach for a burst of color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Hamburger potato soup is a hearty meal on its own, but paired with a crusty loaf of bread, it becomes a feast. Mama Lou used to serve it with her homemade garlic bread, the perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last drop of the soup. A simple green salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast, making for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This soup keeps beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup?
The main ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Hamburger Potato Soup?
The total time to make Hamburger Potato Soup includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Hamburger Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, Hamburger Potato Soup can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Hamburger Potato Soup?
Hamburger Potato Soup pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Hamburger Potato Soup suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Hamburger Potato Soup may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating this hamburger potato soup is more than just cooking; it’s an opportunity to connect with loved ones and share a piece of my family’s history. Each spoonful carries the warmth of Mama Lou’s kitchen, the laughter Ouma and I shared as children, and the simple joy of a family meal. As you prepare this dish, I hope you find the same comfort and love that it has brought to my life. Enjoy every moment, every memory, and every delicious bite.
