Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (optional for creamy version)
- 1/4 cup flour (for thickening, optional)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (optional for a cheesy soup)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- Optional garnishes: green onions, sour cream, croutons
Instructions
Stovetop Method:
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Creamy or Cheesy Option: For a creamy soup, whisk milk and flour together and stir in. For cheesy, add cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with bacon, green onions, or sour cream.
Slow Cooker Method:
- Brown the Beef: Follow stovetop instructions to brown the beef.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Add beef, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and broth to the slow cooker.
- Cook: On low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are soft.
Notes
- Russet potatoes create a creamy texture. Yukon Golds work well for a smoother consistency.
- Optional vegetables: add spinach, kale, or corn for added nutrition.
- For a lighter version, use low-sodium broth and lean ground beef.
- Dairy ingredients (milk or cheese) can be skipped for a broth-based soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (stovetop), 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop/Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Hamburger soup, potato soup, ground beef, comfort food, creamy potato soup, cheesy soup, hearty soup