Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy broth. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor, with the potatoes adding a silky texture and the ground beef providing a satisfying protein base. The addition of garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs gives the soup a well-rounded, savory taste, while the creamy base makes it indulgent without being overly heavy. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you’re craving a filling, comforting meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to lightly brown.
  4. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, and stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Make it Creamy: Once the potatoes are tender, add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese (if using), stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. For an extra creamy texture, stir in sour cream if desired.
  6. Combine the Beef and Finish: Return the browned ground beef to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~350-400 kcal
  • Protein: ~20-25 g
  • Fat: ~20-25 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25-30 g
  • Fiber: ~3-4 g
  • Sugars: ~3-5 g
  • Sodium: ~700-900 mg (depending on broth and cheese used)
  • Vitamin A: ~10-15% of the Daily Value (from cheese and herbs)
  • Vitamin C: ~15% of the Daily Value (from potatoes and onion)

Notes:

  • For a lighter version, you can substitute the whole milk with a lower-fat milk and skip the sour cream and cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
  • Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or corn to add more flavor and texture to the soup.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher to create a creamier texture without adding extra cream.
  • This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the creaminess may thicken upon storage, so you may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Enjoy the satisfying comfort of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup