Potato Hamburger Soup Recipe: Hearty & Simple Comfort Food

Potato hamburger soup is a hearty one-pot meal combining ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and broth into a comforting dish ready in under 45 minutes. This easy recipe serves 6 and requires basic pantry ingredients including 1 pound ground beef, 4 cups potatoes, 1 cup carrots, 1 onion, 4 cups broth, and seasonings.

The Ultimate Potato Hamburger Soup Guide

Nothing beats a warm bowl of potato hamburger soup on a chilly day. This classic American comfort food combines the savory richness of ground beef with the comforting texture of potatoes in a flavorful broth. Unlike complicated recipes, this version delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Potato Hamburger Soup

Using quality ingredients makes all the difference in this easy potato hamburger soup recipe. Here's what you'll need for the best results:

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation Tips
Ground beef (80% lean)	1 pound	Choose freshly ground for best flavor
Yukon Gold potatoes	4 cups, diced	Leave skins on for added nutrients
Carrots	1 cup, sliced	Thin slices cook evenly
Yellow onion	1 medium	Finely diced for flavor base
Beef broth	4 cups	Low-sodium preferred
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons	Enhances depth of flavor
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon	Secret flavor booster

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the best homemade potato hamburger soup experience:

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef with onions until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Build the broth: Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add vegetables: Add potatoes, carrots, and seasonings. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Simmer to perfection: Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Final seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Master this ground beef and potato soup with these professional cooking techniques:

• Don't skip the fond: After browning beef, deglaze the pot with a splash of broth to capture all those flavorful browned bits
• Potato selection matters: Yukon Golds maintain their shape better than russets while still providing creaminess
• Texture control: For creamier potato hamburger soup, mash some potatoes against the pot side during the last 5 minutes of cooking
• Flavor development: Let the soup rest for 15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld

Delicious Variations to Try

Customize this quick potato hamburger soup for dinner to suit your preferences:

• Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or milk during the last 5 minutes for a richer texture
• Healthy potato hamburger soup: Use lean ground turkey and vegetable broth for a lighter option
• Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño with the vegetables
• Loaded baked potato style: Top with shredded cheddar, bacon bits, and chives
• Gluten-free option: Ensure broth is certified gluten-free and skip any flour-based thickeners

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Maximize your potato hamburger soup experience with these recommendations:

• Serving temperature: Serve piping hot for best flavor release
• Perfect pairings: Excellent with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad
• Storage: Keep in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating)
• Reheating: Warm gently on stove over medium-low heat, adding small amounts of broth if needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make potato hamburger soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer to slow cooker with remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.

How do I prevent potatoes from becoming mushy in the soup?

Add potatoes midway through cooking rather than at the beginning. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better than russets. Avoid over-stirring once potatoes are in the pot to prevent breakage.

What's the best way to thicken potato hamburger soup?

For natural thickening, mash some potatoes against the side of the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, create a slurry with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into simmering soup.

Can I use frozen vegetables in potato hamburger soup?

Yes, you can substitute frozen vegetables, but add them later in the cooking process since they require less time to heat through. For best texture, use frozen diced potatoes rather than fresh if fresh aren't available.

How can I make this recipe more nutritious?

Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like celery, peas, or kale. Use lean ground beef (90% lean) and low-sodium broth. For added protein, include a can of rinsed white beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.