There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade soup, and hamburger potato soup hits all the right notes. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just crave a rich, filling dish, this soup delivers the warmth and flavor you need. Combining hearty ground beef, creamy potatoes, and flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food that is simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and easy to customize.
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What Ingredients Do You Need for Hamburger Potato Soup?
To make the perfect hamburger potato soup, you don’t need to hunt for hard-to-find ingredients. This recipe uses basic items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s break down the key ingredients that bring this dish together.
Ingredients List:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Lean or regular ground beef works best for flavor. |
| Potatoes | 4 medium, diced | Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for soups. |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Yellow onion gives the best flavor, but any variety works. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Adds savory depth to the soup. |
| Beef Broth | 4 cups | You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option. |
| Milk or Cream | 1 cup | For a creamy texture; substitute with heavy cream for richness. |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust according to preference. |
| Optional Toppings | Sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits | For added flavor and richness. |
These ingredients are the core components of this delicious soup. The beauty of hamburger potato soup lies in its simplicity – the flavors come together effortlessly, creating a satisfying dish without any complicated steps.
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks, stirring occasionally until browned. This step is crucial for building the base of flavor in the soup. - Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. - Add Potatoes and Broth:
Next, add the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for around 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Incorporate Milk or Cream:
After the potatoes are cooked through, pour in the milk or cream to give the soup its rich, creamy texture. Stir to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. - Optional Toppings:
For a little extra indulgence, consider topping your soup with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream. These add-ons enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish, taking it from comforting to extraordinary.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
Making hamburger potato soup from scratch is a straightforward process, and you can prepare it in under an hour. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to guide you through every step of the process.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
To begin, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently to break it up into small crumbles. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if there’s too much, especially if you used fattier ground beef.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir them into the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is important because it develops the savory foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient: potatoes. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the beef broth. Stir everything together, ensuring that the potatoes are submerged in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll want the potatoes to be fork-tender, but not mushy.
Step 4: Stir in Milk or Cream
Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s time to add the creamy element. Pour in the milk or cream, stirring gently to incorporate it into the soup. The milk or cream transforms the soup into a creamy, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. Once everything is seasoned to your liking, remove the pot from the heat.
What Are Some Common Mistakes When Making Hamburger Potato Soup?
Even though hamburger potato soup is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some tips on how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Overcooking the Potatoes
Potatoes should be tender, but not mushy. Overcooking them can lead to a soupy texture that doesn’t hold up well. Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook, and check them with a fork to make sure they are cooked through but still firm.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Seasoning
A common mistake is not seasoning the soup enough. While the beef and potatoes provide a good base, the soup needs plenty of seasoning to bring out its full flavor. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially with salt and pepper.
Mistake 3: Not Using Enough Beef Broth
If you don’t add enough broth or liquid, the soup can end up too thick and dry. The broth is what gives the soup its depth and richness, so be generous with it. If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Mistake 4: Not Letting the Soup Simmer Long Enough
Simmering the soup allows all the flavors to develop and meld together. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup. Let the soup simmer for at least 15-20 minutes after adding the potatoes to ensure it reaches its full potential.
Can You Make Variations of Hamburger Potato Soup?
One of the great things about hamburger potato soup is how versatile it is. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try:
Spicy Hamburger Potato Soup
For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup while cooking the beef. This version is perfect for those who love a spicy twist on a classic comfort food.
Vegetarian Hamburger Potato Soup
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based protein or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the richness of the soup. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for additional flavor.
Loaded Hamburger Potato Soup
Take your hamburger potato soup to the next level by adding toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add texture and flavor, making the soup even more indulgent and satisfying.
What to Serve with Hamburger Potato Soup
- Kielbasa Potato Soup: A hearty, smoky soup that pairs well with rustic sides.
- 4-Ingredient Potato Soup: A simple and comforting option to complement a meal.
- Hash Brown Potato Soup: A creamy and hearty potato soup variation.
- Delicious Kielbasa Potato Soup: A smoky, savory soup packed with flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is it safe to eat potato soup?
Potato soup can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose flavor or even spoil. To keep it safe, make sure to store the soup in an airtight container. Also, always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. You’re going to love this! Reheat it thoroughly before eating for the best taste.
Will potato soup thicken as it cooks?
Yes, potato soup will thicken as it cooks. The starch from the potatoes breaks down and naturally thickens the broth. First, make sure to chop the potatoes into small pieces to speed up the process. Then, simmer the soup gently, and it will get thicker over time. If it’s not thick enough, you can mash a few potatoes to get it to your perfect consistency!
Why does my potato soup get watery?
If your potato soup turns watery, it could be from overcooking the potatoes or adding too much liquid. First, try not to stir too often, as it can cause the potatoes to break down too much. Next, ensure you’re adding the right amount of broth or milk. You can also thicken it by mashing some potatoes or adding a little cornstarch to fix the texture.
How long is hamburger soup good for?
Hamburger soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just like potato soup, make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit in the fridge overnight. Before serving, just heat it up, and it will taste just as delicious as when it was made!
Conclusion
Hamburger potato soup is the epitome of comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the hearty flavors of ground beef and tender potatoes makes it the perfect dish to warm up on a cold day. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings or variations to suit your tastes. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try something new, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
From its simplicity to its versatility, hamburger potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and satisfying. It’s a meal that brings people together, offering comfort and flavor in every spoonful. So, why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you for it!
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