Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy potato & hamburger soup recipe. Rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a bowl of deliciousness. With tender potatoes, savory hamburger, and a luscious creamy broth, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground hamburger
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground hamburger over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in diced potatoes and sliced carrots.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
8. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth, making sure to add additional seasonings for flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy potato & hamburger soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a simple side of steamed vegetables. It’s perfect for dipping and enhances the overall experience of this hearty dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the browning of the hamburger; it adds depth of flavor.
- Ensure potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
- Overcooking can make the potatoes mushy; check tenderness regularly.
- Avoid adding cream too early; it’s best added at the end.
- Adjust seasoning gradually to avoid oversalting.
Helpful Tips
- Use a potato masher to slightly mash some potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Try adding cheese for a cheesy twist on the soup.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use instant potatoes for this recipe?
Using instant potatoes can change the texture of the soup. Fresh potatoes provide a heartier and creamier base that enhances the overall flavor.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions for an extra kick of heat.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, or you can even use sausage for a different flavor.
What can I serve with creamy potato & hamburger soup?
This soup pairs well with a variety of sides like garlic bread, crackers, or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This creamy potato & hamburger soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your soul. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy each comforting bowlful!
Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground hamburger
- 4 medium potatoes diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots sliced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground hamburger over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in diced potatoes and sliced carrots.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
