Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup – A Light, Hearty Comfort Classic

Warm, creamy, and full of flavor, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and balance. It combines lean ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese into a lighter, nourishing bowl of goodness that feels like a hug from the inside out. Made with simple ingredients and smart swaps, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor—or your goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lighter Comfort Food – Rich, cheesy flavor with better-for-you ingredients.
One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup and quick cooking.
Filling & Satisfying – Protein-packed with hearty potatoes for staying power.
Family-Friendly – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 lb extra lean ground beef (96% lean or better)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups skim milk
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• Chopped green onions or parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes, paprika, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

3. Stir in Milk and Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk and shredded cheese. Cook until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken slightly.

4. Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if using. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 10g
Protein: 26g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Keeps the soup lighter without losing that savory flavor.
• Cheese Matters: Use reduced-fat sharp cheddar for bold taste with fewer calories.
• Extra Creamy? Swap a portion of milk for fat-free half-and-half or evaporated milk.
• Add Veggies: Stir in some chopped spinach or carrots for a nutrient boost.

Why This Recipe Works

This soup delivers everything you crave in a classic cheesy hamburger and potato dish—hearty texture, rich flavor, and a creamy base—with smart swaps that keep it on the lighter side. It’s comfort food without compromise.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup is a go-to when you want something warm, filling, and totally comforting that still supports a mindful approach to eating. With a one-pot method, easy ingredients, and crave-worthy flavor, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite in your kitchen.