Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

Here’s a comforting recipe for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup! It’s hearty, creamy, and filled with great flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half works best)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/4 tsp pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for a little smoky flavor)
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef: In a large soup pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, drain excess fat, if needed. Set the meat aside.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter (if using). Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Thicken the soup base: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup later.

4. Add the liquids: Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then, pour in the milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add potatoes and simmer: Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

6. Combine the beef: Once the potatoes are tender, stir the cooked ground beef back into the soup.

7. Add the cheese and seasoning: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, a little at a time, allowing it to melt into the soup. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.

8. Final touch: If you want the soup extra creamy, stir in sour cream just before serving.

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and optionally garnish with some extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon.

Enjoy this warm and cheesy comfort food perfect for cold days!