Ever wondered why some potato soups are amazing while others aren’t? The key might be adding hamburger. Introducing the Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup, a dish that will win your family’s heart.
This soup is special because of its mix of ground beef, potatoes, and creamy broth. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend or for leftovers all week. It’s a meal that everyone will love.
Why This Creamy Potato Soup Recipe Is Perfect for Your Family
If you’re searching for a meal that’s both hearty and comforting, this creamy potato soup is ideal. It’s full of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it has 25 grams of protein per serving, making it great for busy nights.
Nutritional Benefits and Protein Content
This soup is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s made with lean ground beef, potatoes, and veggies. Each serving has 25 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. It also has vitamins A, C, calcium, and iron.
Time-Saving Benefits for Busy Weeknights
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- It can be ready in under an hour, making mealtime stress-free.
- You can add your favorite veggies to make it even better.
This creamy potato soup with hamburger is great for dinner or meal prep. It keeps your family happy and healthy.
“This creamy potato soup is a nutritional powerhouse, delivering 25 grams of protein per serving along with essential vitamins and minerals.”
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Soup
Creating a tasty What is cowboy soup made of? starts with the right ingredients. Lean ground beef is the base, adding protein. Fresh veggies like onions, carrots, and celery add flavor.
Milk and shredded cheddar cheese make the soup creamy. Flour or cornstarch thickens it, making it smooth and comforting.
Now, let’s look at the main ingredients for this What is cowboy soup made of?:
- 1 lb. lean ground beef (93% lean)
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1.5 cups milk
- 8 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
Together, these ingredients make a delicious What is cowboy soup made of?. It’s a hit with families everywhere.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty crockpot creamy potato soup is easy. It’s a great meal for your family. Here’s how to make it.
Preparing the Ground Beef Base
Start by heating a big soup pan or Dutch oven on medium-high. Put in 1 pound of ground beef. Cook, breaking it up, until it’s browned and done, about 5-7 minutes. Then, drain any extra fat.
Adding Vegetables and Broth
Now, add 1 small diced onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 sliced carrots, and 3 large diced potatoes to the pan. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften. Then, pour in 3 cups of beef broth and stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Incorporating Dairy Elements
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of hot broth from the soup. Slowly add this mixture back into the soup, stirring constantly, to thicken it. Then, stir in 1 1/2 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
Your crockpot creamy potato soup is now ready! Add chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch.
Choosing the Right Potatoes for Your Soup
Choosing the right potatoes is key for a great potato soup. For a What is the best thickener for potato soup?, Russet potatoes are the best. They break down easily, making the soup thick and creamy.
Don’t use red potatoes. They keep their shape and don’t help thicken the soup. Peel and cut Russet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
“Russet potatoes are perfect for creamy soups like this one, as their high starch content allows them to break down and naturally thicken the broth.”
Choosing the right potato and preparing it right will make a What is the best thickener for potato soup? that everyone will love.
Vegetable Combinations and Customization Options
This creamy hamburger potato soup recipe is super flexible. You can mix and match veggies to please your family. The base of carrots, celery, and onions is tasty, but you can add more for flavor and health.
Classic Vegetable Mix Suggestions
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onions
- Corn
- Green beans
- Peas
Seasonal Variations
This soup can change with the seasons. Use fresh veggies to make it new every year. In summer, try zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes. In fall and winter, sweet potatoes or parsnips are great.
This soup is different from a stew because of its mix of veggies. It’s not just thick and has a few veggies like stew.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Chicken Broth | 6 cups |
| Russet Potatoes, Peeled and Diced | 6 cups |
| Frozen Mixed Vegetables | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Velveeta Cheese | 8 ounces |
| Dried Basil | 3 teaspoons |
| Dried Parsley Flakes | 2 teaspoons |
You can make this soup your own. Choose from classic or seasonal veggies. Its creamy texture and taste make it special, unlike a regular stew.
Slow Cooker Method for Extra Convenience
Looking for an easy way to enjoy crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup? The slow cooker method is perfect. It lets you enjoy delicious flavors with little effort.
First, brown the ground beef. This step makes the soup’s base rich and savory. Then, put the cooked beef, diced onions, carrots, and celery in the slow cooker. These veggies add depth and texture.
Now, add potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Use 6 cups of russet potatoes, 6 cups of chicken broth, and herbs like basil and parsley. This mix makes a creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Russet Potatoes | 6 cups |
| Chicken Broth | 6 cups |
| Frozen Vegetable Mix | 2 cups |
| Dried Basil | 3 tsp |
| Dried Parsley Flakes | 2 tsp |
The slow cooker method lets flavors blend over time. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This makes the crockpot creamy potato and hamburger soup great for busy days or relaxed weekends.
After cooking, you can add your favorite touches. Try fresh herbs, grated cheese, or sour cream. This way, you can make the soup your own, ensuring a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Proper Thickening Techniques and Tips
Creating the perfect creamy, thick potato soup is all about mastering thickening. There are many ways to get the right consistency.
Using Flour vs Cornstarch
Flour is a great thickener for potato soup. Mix 1/4 cup of flour with 1 cup of broth until smooth. Then, slowly add it back to the soup and simmer until it thickens.
Or, you can use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Potatoes also help thicken the soup as they cook. To make it even thicker, blend some cooked potatoes or veggies and mix them back in. Letting the soup simmer longer helps too.
Adding thickeners slowly and adjusting as needed is key. The best thickener for potato soup enhances flavors and texture without overpowering it. Try different methods to find what your family likes best.
Storage and Leftover Guidelines
Enjoying hamburger potato soup doesn’t have to stop after one meal. Leftovers can be a big help, offering quick meals all week. To keep your hamburger potato soup fresh and tasty, follow these tips.
Put leftover hamburger potato soup in airtight containers in the fridge. Use clear containers so you can see what’s inside. It stays good in the fridge for 4-5 days, perfect for meal prep.
For longer storage, freeze the hamburger potato soup. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. But, the taste might not be as good after a month.
When you reheat the hamburger potato soup, make sure it’s hot enough. Heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir often to make sure it’s hot all the way through.
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 4-5 days |
| Freezer | 3 months |
By following these tips, you can enjoy hamburger potato soup for a long time. A bit of planning means you can have this comforting dish whenever you want.
Delicious Topping Ideas and Serving Suggestions
Make your creamy potato and hamburger soup even better with tasty toppings and sides. You can choose what you like best for your family.
Cheese and Dairy Options
Adding shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese makes the soup creamy. Try sour cream for a tangy flavor. For extra richness, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Fresh Herb Garnishes
Herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can make your soup taste and look better. Just chop them finely and sprinkle on top.
Pair the creamy potato and hamburger soup with crusty bread, warm rolls, or crackers. A green salad or Caesar salad adds a nice touch, balancing the soup’s richness.
“The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy broth makes this soup a true comfort food classic.”
This creamy potato and hamburger soup is perfect for a cozy night or a family event. It’s easy to customize with toppings and sides, making it a hit with everyone.
Troubleshooting Common Soup Issues
Is your creamy potato soup lacking flavor? Don’t worry, there are easy fixes. If it tastes flat, add more Worcestershire sauce, salt, or black pepper. More garlic or onion can also help.
Does your soup feel too watery? Use flavorful chicken broth instead of water. Adding a bay leaf while cooking helps too. For creaminess, try sharp extra-sharp cheddar instead of mild.
| Common Soup Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Bland or Lacking Flavor |
|
| Thin, Watery Consistency |
|
With a few tweaks, your potato soup can go from bland to flavorful. Try different seasonings and methods to match your taste.
“Proper seasoning is the key to elevating any soup from ordinary to extraordinary.”
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Want to try something new with your creamy hamburger and potato soup? You can swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. Vegetarians can use soy crumbles or more diced veggies instead of meat.
For a dairy-free version, try non-dairy milk and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese. You can also add more basil or try thyme or rosemary for a different taste.
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Ground Chicken or Turkey |
| Dairy Milk | Non-Dairy Milk (Almond, Oat, Soy) |
| Cheese | Vegan Cheese Substitute |
| Basil | Thyme or Rosemary |
Try these changes to make the hamburger and potato soup your own. It keeps the dish comforting and tasty for everyone.
Conclusion
The creamy hamburger potato soup is a great meal for families. It’s easy to make and can be made in many ways. This soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re busy.
It can be cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. This makes it a tasty and comforting meal. The mix of ground beef, potatoes, and veggies makes it a healthy choice for everyone.
Try it with fresh bread, a salad, and your favorite toppings. This soup is easy to make and always a hit. It’s a perfect choice for any time you need a warm, satisfying meal.
FAQ
What is the best thickener for potato soup?
Flour is the best thickener for potato soup. You can also use cornstarch. Mix 1/4 cup flour or 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1 cup of broth. Then, add it to the soup slowly while stirring.
What is cowboy soup made of?
Cowboy soup has ground beef, potatoes, and veggies like carrots, celery, and onions. It’s similar to our creamy potato and hamburger soup.
What’s the difference between hamburger stew and hamburger soup?
Our soup is more like a soup, not as thick as stew. It’s also flexible with veggies. Stew is thicker and has fixed ingredients.
Why does my potato soup have no flavor?
If your soup tastes bland, add more Worcestershire sauce, salt, or pepper. More garlic or onion can help too. Use flavorful chicken broth and a bay leaf for extra taste. Sharp cheddar cheese can also make it taste better.
What is the best thickener for potato soup?
Flour is the best thickener for potato soup. You can also use cornstarch. Mix 1/4 cup flour or 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1 cup of broth. Then, add it to the soup slowly while stirring.