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A warm and hearty bowl of hamburger potato soup, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread on a rustic wooden table.

The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Hamburger Potato Soup


  • Author: chef Jennifer
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (Stovetop) / 6-8 hours (Slow Cooker) / 30 minutes (Instant Pot)
  • Yield: 1 large pot (serves 6) 1x

Description

Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of hamburger potato soup on a chilly evening! This easy, budget-friendly soup is packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a flavorful broth, making it the perfect comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this one-pot meal is sure to satisfy.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
  • 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream (optional for creamier soup)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional for depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra umami)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for topping (optional)

Instructions

Stovetop Method:

  1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  2. Sauté the veggies: Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in beef broth and stir in salt, pepper, parsley, basil, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
  4. Cook the potatoes: Add diced potatoes and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Make it creamy (optional): Stir in milk or heavy cream for a richer consistency. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust: Check seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  7. Serve and garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or green onions.

Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
  2. Add all ingredients except the milk/cream and cheese. Stir well.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in milk or heavy cream (if using) and let warm for another 10-15 minutes.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with cheese or fresh herbs.

Instant Pot Method:

  1. Use the sauté function to brown the beef. Drain grease.
  2. Add all ingredients (except milk/cream and cheese) and stir well.
  3. Close lid, seal, and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 10 minutes.
  4. Quick-release pressure, stir in milk/cream, and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  5. Garnish with cheese and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
  • For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
  • Low-carb option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower.
  • Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (Stovetop) / 6-8 hours (Slow Cooker) / 10 minutes + pressure time (Instant Pot)
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Protein: ~20g

Keywords: Hamburger Potato Soup