The Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe: Comfort in Every Bite

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: Comfort in Every Bite
There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of cheesy hamburger potato soup. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! This creamy, cheesy, and hearty soup combines two of my all-time favorite comfort foods—cheeseburgers and loaded baked potatoes. The combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a velvety broth makes every bite so satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that warms you up from the inside out.

I make this soup all the time when I’m looking for something easy, filling, and budget-friendly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or simply indulging in something warm during those chilly months. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something comforting, this soup has it all. And don’t worry – we’ll go over everything you need to know, from ingredients to techniques and even variations, so you can make it your own.

What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

Cheesy hamburger potato soup is a one-pot meal combining ground beef, potatoes, cheddar cheese, broth, and cream for a rich, indulgent soup. Imagine a cheeseburger in soup form—savory, creamy, and full of flavor with the comforting texture of loaded potato soup. It’s the perfect hearty meal with minimal effort.

Origins and Why It’s a Comfort Food Favorite

Cheesy hamburger potato soup blends cheeseburger soup and creamy potato chowder, inspired by classic American diner foods.

✔ Passed down through family recipes and Midwestern cookbooks.
✔ Perfect for cold weather, rich and hearty.
✔ Simple, affordable comfort food.

It’s my go-to when I want a warm, filling meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

What Makes It Different from Other Soups?

Unlike regular potato soup or basic cheeseburger soup, this version of cheesy hamburger potato This version stands out because:

• It includes browned ground beef, seasoned like a burger patty.
• Uses shredded cheddar or processed cheese for creaminess.
• Contains veggies like onions, carrots, or celery.
• The base is a mix of broth and milk or cream, thickened to perfection.

It’s hearty, rich, and always satisfying. Can’t wait for you to try it!

Overview of Core Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll typically find in a cheesy hamburger potato soup recipe:

Optional add-ins include carrots, celery, green onions, or even a dash of hot sauce for spice.

Why Ground Beef Works in Potato Soup

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can put hamburger meat in potato soup, the answer is: absolutely, yes—and it’s one of the best ways to elevate a basic potato soup into a rich, satisfying one-pot meal. Adding hamburger meat transforms a mild, creamy potato soup into something more robust and hearty.

• The savory flavor of browned beef pairs perfectly with the starchiness of potatoes and the richness of cheese.
• It adds protein and body, making the soup more balanced and satisfying as a full meal.
• Cooking the beef with aromatics like onion and garlic builds flavor at the base of the soup.

How to Prepare Hamburger Meat for Soup

To get the best flavor and texture, follow these steps when preparing hamburger meat for your cheesy hamburger potato soup:

Step 1: Use 80/20 Ground Beef

✔ It has the right balance of flavorful fat and lean meat.
✔ Leaner ground beef can be used, but may result in a drier texture unless you add extra fat or dairy.

Step 2: Brown the Meat First

✔ Always cook your ground beef before adding it to the soup base.
✔ Browning develops umami flavor and color through caramelization.
✔ Drain excess grease, but leave a little fat in the pan to sauté onions or garlic—it’s flavor gold!

FAQ: Should you cook meat before adding to soup?
Yes. Cooking the meat beforehand ensures it’s fully safe to eat, and adds more depth of flavor than boiling raw meat in the broth.

Step 3: Season the Meat

✔ Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
✔ Don’t overdo it—remember, the broth and cheese will also add salt.

Ground Beef vs. Other Meats: What Works Best?

While hamburger (ground beef) is the classic choice, you can experiment with these proteins:

🔹 Best Choice: Stick with browned ground beef for that iconic “cheeseburger in a bowl” flavor.

Choosing the Right Cheese for Potato Soup

In a cheesy hamburger potato soup, the cheese is what ties everything together—it adds creaminess, depth, and that irresistible gooey texture that makes each spoonful extra comforting. But not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to soups. Choosing the right cheese ensures a smooth, velvety finish and bold flavor without clumping or greasiness.

What Kind of Cheese is Good in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

The best cheese for potato soup is one that:
✔ Melts easily
✔ Blends smoothly into broth
✔ Adds a strong, savory flavor

Top Cheeses to Use:

🔹 Best Combo: A mix of sharp cheddar (for flavor) and Velveeta or cream cheese (for creaminess).

Tips for Melting Cheese in Soup Without Clumping

Adding cheese the wrong way can lead to a grainy texture or greasy surface. Here’s how to do it right:

✅ Grate It Fresh

✔ Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it’s coated in anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✔ Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and smoothly.

✅ Lower the Heat Before Adding Cheese

✔ Turn the heat down to low or remove the pot from heat before stirring in cheese.
✔ High heat causes cheese to break and separate into oil and solids.

✅ Add Cheese Gradually

✔ Add a small handful at a time and stir continuously.
✔ This helps cheese melt evenly into the soup without clumping.

Bonus Tip: Add Cream Cheese or Sour Cream

Want your soup extra rich and creamy?
✔ Add 2–4 oz of cream cheese (cubed and softened)
✔ Or stir in a dollop of sour cream at the end for a tangy finish

Flavor Boosters to Pair with Cheese

You can elevate the cheesy base with simple additions:

• A dash of mustard powder enhances sharpness.
• A splash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami.
• A pinch of smoked paprika gives it a cozy, smoky undertone.

The Best Potatoes and Veggies to Use

In any good cheesy hamburger potato soup, the potatoes are the backbone—they give the soup its heartiness, body, and classic comfort food texture. Choosing the right type of potato (and veggies) can take your soup from just “good” to deeply satisfying and delicious. Let’s break down what works best and why.

1. Best Potatoes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to cheesy hamburger potato soup. You want something that holds up during cooking but still breaks down just enough to make the soup creamy and thick. Choosing the right potato is key to getting that perfect texture!

🥔 Top Choices:

🔹 Best Choice: Use a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes to get both texture and creaminess.

🧂 Pro Tips for Potatoes:

✔ Cut potatoes uniformly into ½ to ¾-inch cubes for even cooking.
✔ Soak peeled potatoes in cold water if prepping in advance to prevent browning.
✔ Don’t overboil—they should be fork-tender but not mushy.

2. Vegetables That Add Flavor and Texture

While the main stars are beef, cheese, and potatoes, adding a few well-chosen vegetables helps build depth of flavor and balance the richness of cheesy hamburger potato soup.

🥕 Top Veggies to Include:

🔹 Best Base Veggie Trio: Onion + Garlic + Carrot = flavor gold.

🧂 Sauté First for Maximum Flavor

✔ Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in the beef drippings for extra richness.
✔ This also builds the base for your creamy, cheesy broth.

3. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

If you want to elevate your cheesy hamburger potato soup even more, try these:

• Green onions – Add at the end for brightness
• Peas or corn – For a sweet pop of color and texture
• Jalapeños – For a spicy kick

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup (Step-by-Step Recipe)

It’s time to bring everything together and make your new favorite comfort food: cheesy hamburger potato soup. This one-pot wonder is rich, hearty, creamy, and ultra-satisfying—and the best part is how easy it is to make, whether you’re using the stovetop or a slow cooker.

Let’s walk through a simple, foolproof recipe to make a big pot of cozy goodness from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Base:

✔ Ground beef
✔ Onion
✔ Garlic
✔ Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
✔ Carrots
✔ Chicken or beef broth
✔ Milk
✔ Heavy cream (optional)

Step-by-Step

✔ Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
✔ Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
✔ Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
✔ Step 4: Thicken the Soup (Optional)
✔ Step 5: Add Milk, Cream & Cheese
✔ Step 6: Taste & Adjust
✔ Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Slow Cooker Instructions (Optional Method)

If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, cheesy hamburger potato soup is perfect for the slow cooker too.

1. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies on the stovetop.
2. Transfer to a slow cooker along with potatoes, carrots, and broth.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
4. In the last 30 minutes, stir in milk, cream, and cheese. Heat on low until melted and creamy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Every Time

✔ Cut all veggies uniformly for even cooking
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
✔ Don’t let milk or cream boil—it can separate
✔ For a thicker soup, mash a few potatoes directly in the pot before adding cheese.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a hearty, one-pot comfort meal made with ground beef, tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s easy, affordable, and perfect for cozy weeknights or cold-weather cravings—sure to become a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course dinner, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 8 people

Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients

  

Soup Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3–4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery ribs, chopped (optional)
• 3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)

Cheesy Add-ins:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
• 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)

Optional Garnishes:

• Green onions,sliced
• Extra shredded cheese
• Crushed crackers or croutons

Instructions

 

Brown the Beef:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess fat, leaving 1 tbsp in the pot.

Sauté Aromatics:

• Add butter, then sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft (5–6 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Add Potatoes & Broth:

• Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Thicken (Optional):

• Mix 1 tbsp flour with a splash of cold broth and stir into the soup. Simmer another 5 minutes to thicken.

Add Dairy & Cheese:

• Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk, cream, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted.

Adjust Seasoning & Serve:

• Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Serve hot with garnishes of your choice.

Notes

⭐ Pro Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melt and flavor
• Mash a few potatoes in the pot for a naturally thicker soup
• Add cream cheese for extra creaminess without flour or starch
• Top with green onions for the full comfort food experience

Keyword cheesy beef potato soup, cheesy hamburger potato soup, creamy hamburger soup, hamburger potato soup

Thickeners for the Perfect Soup Texture

The texture of cheesy hamburger potato soup is crucial — thick, creamy, and hearty. Here are the best ways to naturally thicken your soup without compromising flavor.

What Is a Good Thickener for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

What Are the Best Thickeners for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

1. Mashed Potatoes (Natural Thickener)
   ✔ Mash ½ to 1 cup of cooked potatoes and stir back in.
   ✔ Adds body and starch without flour or dairy.
   Best for: Thickening without altering flavor.

2. Flour (Roux Method)
   ✔ Whisk 1 tbsp flour with 1 tbsp melted butter to form a roux.
   ✔ Stir into the soup and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
   Best for: A richer texture with traditional thickness.

3. Cornstarch Slurry
   ✔ Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the soup.
   ✔ Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
   Best for: Quick thickening without changing the flavor.

4. Cream Cheese
   ✔ Stir in 2-4 oz of softened cream cheese after the potatoes are tender.
   ✔ Melt slowly over low heat to prevent curdling.
   Best for: Rich, cheesy soup with a creamy texture.

5. Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
   ✔ Adds a smooth, silky texture.
   ✔ Combine with mashed potatoes for the best result.
   Best for: Creamy soup without being too heavy.

6. Instant Potato Flakes (Emergency Option)
   ✔ Stir in 1-2 tbsp to quickly thicken the soup.
   Best for: A quick fix when your soup is too thin.

Which Thickener Is Right for You?

Pro Tips for Thickening Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

✔ Add thickener gradually and adjust as needed.
✔ Let soup simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally.
✔ Avoid boiling after adding cheese or dairy to prevent curdling.

Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips

Properly storing, reheating, and freezing your cheesy hamburger potato soup ensures you can enjoy its creamy goodness without losing flavor or texture.

1- How to Store in the Fridge

✔️ Cool soup to room temperature before storing.
✔️ Transfer to an airtight container.
✔️ Store for up to 4 days.
💡 Pro Tip: Store in individual portions for easier reheating.

2- How to Reheat Without Losing Texture

To preserve the texture, reheat gently.

✅ Stovetop (Best Method):
Heat soup in a small pot on low to medium, stirring occasionally. Add milk or broth if it thickens too much.

✅ Microwave (Quick Method):
Heat in intervals, stirring between each. Add liquid if needed.

⚠️ Tip: Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

3- Can You Freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup?

✔️ Yes, with care.
✅ Freezing Instructions:
Cool soup, then store in freezer-safe containers. Leave space for expansion. Label and freeze for up to 2 months.

❄️ Note: Potatoes and dairy may change in texture. To fix, reheat slowly and stir in cream or broth.

4- How to Thaw & Reheat Frozen Soup

✔️ Thaw in the fridge overnight.
✔️ Reheat on the stovetop, adding liquid if needed.
✨ Tip: Freeze before adding cheese or cream, then add after reheating.

Storage & Reheating Summary

FAQs About Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

If you’re thinking about making cheesy hamburger potato soup for the first time—or just want to level up your next batch—you might have a few questions. Below are the top FAQs people ask when cooking this rich, comforting classic.

1. Can you put hamburger meat in potato soup?

✔ Yes, and it’s amazing.
Adding hamburger (ground beef) to potato soup brings protein, flavor, and heartiness, turning a simple soup into a complete one-pot meal.
Just be sure to brown the meat first and season it well before adding it to your soup base for the best flavor.

2. What kind of cheese is good in potato soup?

✔ The best cheese is one that melts smoothly and adds bold flavor.

Top cheese picks for potato soup:

• Sharp cheddar (classic, flavorful, melty)
• Velveeta (ultra-creamy and smooth)
• Colby-Jack (mild and melty)
• Cream cheese (adds body and tang)
• Pepper Jack (for a little kick)

💡 Pro Tip: Always shred your cheese fresh and melt it in slowly over low heat to avoid clumping.

3. What is a good thickener for potato soup?

✔ There are several easy, effective thickeners depending on your preference.

Most common thickening options:

• Mashed potatoes – natural and simple
• Roux (flour + butter) – traditional and rich
• Cornstarch slurry – quick and gluten-free
• Cream cheese or heavy cream – adds thickness and creaminess
• Instant potato flakes – great last-minute fix

✅ Start with small amounts and adjust based on your desired consistency.

4. Should you cook meat before adding to soup?

✔ Always.
Cooking ground beef before adding it to your soup helps:

• Develop deeper flavor through browning
• Render out excess fat, which you can drain
• Ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat

Adding raw ground beef directly to the soup can make the broth greasy and bland.

Final Thoughts & Serving Ideas

There’s a reason cheesy hamburger potato soup has earned its place as a comfort food classic—it’s rich, filling, and easy to love. It blends the meaty satisfaction of a cheeseburger with the cozy texture of creamy potato soup, making it a go-to for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you simply need something warm and indulgent.

Let’s wrap up with a few final tips, plus some easy and delicious ideas for what to serve on the side.

Why Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Is a Weeknight Winner

✔ One-pot simplicity – Everything comes together in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients – Ground beef, potatoes, and cheese = delicious and affordable
✔ Hearty & kid-friendly – Even picky eaters love this cheesy, beefy bowl
✔ Great for leftovers – Gets even better the next day

What to Serve with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

While cheesy hamburger potato soup is hearty enough to stand alone, these sides will round out your meal beautifully:

🥖 Breads & Toasts

• Crusty French bread
• Garlic toast
• Cheddar biscuits
• Cornbread muffins

🥗 Simple Salads

• Garden salad with vinaigrette
• Spinach salad with cranberries and almonds
• Classic Caesar salad

🧂 Fun Toppings Bar

Make it interactive with toppings like:

• Green onions
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheese
• Crushed crackers or croutons

Quick Recap: Why You’ll Love Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Stores well for meal prep or make-ahead meals

It’s creamy, cheesy, and ultra satisfying

The ground beef adds flavor and depth

Easy to customize based on your taste or pantry

Craving more easy, hearty meals like this? Don’t miss our full collection of dinner recipes for family-friendly favorites and comforting classics!