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#### 7. Milk or Heavy Cream
**Milk** or **heavy cream** is often used to give the soup its creamy consistency. Whole milk creates a nice balance of creaminess without being too heavy, while heavy cream will result in a richer, more indulgent texture.
When adding the cream or milk, it’s important to stir constantly to avoid curdling, especially if you’re using a high heat. Gradually incorporating the milk helps create a smooth, velvety soup.
**Tip:** For a healthier version of the soup, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
#### 8. Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, and Herbs)
**Seasonings** are essential to bringing all the ingredients together and enhancing the overall flavor of the soup. Salt and pepper are the basics, but you can also add other herbs and spices for a more complex taste. Common seasonings used in cheesy hamburger potato soup include:
– **Thyme**: A warm, earthy herb that complements the richness of the beef.
– **Parsley**: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the soup.
– **Paprika**: For a mild smokiness and depth.
– **Bay leaves**: Optional, but they can add a subtle depth of flavor during simmering.
Adjust the seasonings based on your preferences and feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
#### 9. Butter
**Butter** is used at the beginning of the soup-making process to sauté the onions and garlic. It adds a subtle richness to the soup and helps in the development of the flavor base. Butter also creates a smoother texture when incorporated into the broth and milk or cream.
You can opt for unsalted butter so that you can control the amount of salt in the soup, or use salted butter for added flavor.
#### 10. Optional Garnishes
While **optional**, garnishes can elevate the soup’s presentation and flavor. Some common garnishes for cheesy hamburger potato soup include:
– **Chopped green onions**: Adds a fresh, crisp element.
– **Bacon bits**: Provides a smoky, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.
– **Shredded cheese**: For an extra cheesy finish.
– **Sour cream**: Adds a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.
– **Croutons**: For a crunchy texture.
### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
Now that we’ve discussed the ingredients, let’s dive into how to make this delicious **Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup**.
#### Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of **butter** or **olive oil**. Once hot, add the **ground beef**. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef if needed.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped **onions** to the pot with the beef and sauté until they’re softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced **garlic** and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
#### Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Add the **potatoes** (cut into small cubes) to the pot, followed by the **chicken or beef broth**. Stir to combine, making sure the potatoes are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
#### Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, add in the **milk or heavy cream**. Stir to combine and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the **shredded cheddar cheese** to the soup, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
#### Step 5: Season the Soup
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with **salt**, **pepper**, and any other desired herbs like **thyme** or **parsley**. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
#### Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is heated through and creamy, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with **chopped green onions**, **bacon bits**, extra **cheese**, or a dollop of **sour cream** if desired.
### Variations and Tips for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup
1. **Make It Spicy**: Add some diced **jalapeños** or a dash of **hot sauce** for a spicy kick to your soup.
2. **Use Different Cheeses**: Experiment with different cheeses like **Monterey Jack**, **Colby**, or even **Swiss** for a unique flavor profile.
3. **Add Veggies**: You can add vegetables like **carrots**, **celery**, or **corn** for added texture and nutrition.
4. **Gluten-Free Option**: This soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring your broth and seasonings are gluten-free, and by using cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour.
5. **Make Ahead**: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid separating the cream and cheese.
### Conclusion: A Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Food
**Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup** is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, rich cheese, and aromatic seasonings into a creamy, satisfying bowl of goodness. It’s a perfect meal for cold days, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a delicious, filling soup.
By using simple yet flavorful ingredients, this soup can be customized to suit any dietary preference or personal taste. Whether you like it extra cheesy, with a bit of spice, or loaded with veggies, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting meal, whip up a pot of **Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup**, and enjoy a warm, delicious dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!
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This concludes the 3000-word article on **Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Ingredients** and the recipe to prepare it! Let me know if you would like more information or have further questions.
