Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup

Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender potatoes, savory hamburger meat, and a creamy base to make a deliciously filling meal. It’s perfect for colder days or anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe to make this creamy soup:

Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4-5 medium potatoes)

• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)

• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.

   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes).

   • Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:

   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.

   • Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Make It Creamy:

   • Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to help thicken the soup and make it creamy. You can mash more or less, depending on how thick you want the soup to be.

   • Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.

   • Pour in the milk and sour cream (if using), stirring until the soup becomes creamy. Allow it to heat through, but don’t bring it back to a boil.

5. Season the Soup:

   • Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

   • Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if desired.

   • Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a bit of cooked bacon, crumbled, or use half-and-half instead of regular milk.

• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of flour when sautéing the onions and garlic to create a roux, or use cornstarch slurry to thicken it later.

• You can add vegetables like carrots or celery for more texture and flavor.

This Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup is an easy, delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy!