Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, shredded carrots (if using), chicken or beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Make a Roux: In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese (if using), mixing until smooth and melted.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add Cheese Sauce to Soup: Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the beef, potatoes, and broth. Stir well to combine everything into a creamy, cheesy soup.
- Simmer for a Few Minutes: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or green onions, crispy bacon bits, and extra shredded cheese for a finishing touch.
- Serve: Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Selection: Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheesy flavor, but you can also try a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for extra creaminess.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cheese sauce.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, corn, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a rich, comforting dish that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s packed with tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, and plenty of cheesy goodness, making it a perfect meal for cold evenings or whenever you’re craving something hearty and delicious!