Here is a delicious creamy potato & hamburger soup recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. This comforting dish combines tender potatoes and savory hamburger meat, all enveloped in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this heartwarming bowl of goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 bowl), this creamy potato & hamburger soup contains approximately 450 calories, 25g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g protein. Note that nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and proportions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the pot.
- Add diced potatoes and beef broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and thyme; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make a lighter version of this soup. Additionally, using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream will reduce the calorie content while still providing creaminess.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy potato & hamburger soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches or warm biscuits.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Use a good-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
- Be cautious with salt; the broth may already be salty.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a lovely finish.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving; flavors meld beautifully.
Helpful Tips
- For added depth, sauté the onions until caramelized.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil.
- For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Consider adding vegetables like carrots or celery for more nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier the next day. Just reheat before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I use instant potatoes in this recipe?
While you can use instant potatoes for convenience, fresh potatoes provide a better texture and flavor. If using instant, follow package instructions for best results.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a little water) and stir it in.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be added to casseroles or used as a filling for pot pies. You can also blend them into a creamy potato dip for appetizers.
Conclusion
This creamy potato & hamburger soup recipe is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t hesitate to get creative with variations!
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the pot.
- Add diced potatoes and beef broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and thyme; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
