Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Prepare to warm your soul and delight your taste buds with a hearty and comforting bowl of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. This delicious soup combines the richness of ground beef, the creaminess of potatoes, and the savory flavors of herbs and vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that is perfect for chilly days or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish to share with friends and family, this Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the creamy goodness and discover the secrets to making this irresistible soup!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break up the beef into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked ground beef. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Milk and Cheese:
- Pour in the milk and add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Add the frozen corn kernels, frozen peas, diced carrots, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to cook through.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve:
- Ladle the creamy potato and hamburger soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer a portion to a blender and blend until smooth before adding it back to the pot.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables such as diced celery, chopped bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms.
- Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even vegetarian ground meat substitute for a lighter option.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to reduce the carb content of the soup. Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer and lower-carb base. Ensure the beef broth and cheese are keto-friendly and free from added sugars.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Omit the potatoes entirely and double up on the vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and zucchini to bulk up the soup without adding extra carbs. Opt for low-carb vegetables and check the labels of the broth and cheese for hidden sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey may cook faster than beef.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this soup? A: This soup is delicious on its own but can be served with a side of crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Indulge in the cozy comforts of Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup – a soul-warming dish that brings together the goodness of ground beef, creamy potatoes, and wholesome vegetables in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or as a hearty meal any time of the year, this soup is a testament to the simple joys of home cooking. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and customizable ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot of this comforting soup, and savor the warmth and satisfaction it brings with each delightful bite!