🍲 Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup

A hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for cozy nights

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1. Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Comfort in a bowl: Warm, creamy texture with savory beef and tender potatoes.

• One-pot convenience: All cooking in one soup pot for easy cleanup.

• Family favorite: Satisfies kids and adults alike with cheese, potatoes, and beef.

• Adaptable ingredient list: Customize with veggies, different cheeses, or broth types.

• Make-ahead and freezing-friendly: Great for meal prep or leftovers.

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2. Ingredient Breakdown & Roles

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose & Notes
Ground beef (80/20)	1 lb (450 g)	Base protein—fat adds flavor
Onion	1 medium, diced	Adds aromatic sweetness
Garlic	2–3 cloves, minced	Depth of flavor
Carrots	2 medium, diced	Adds sweetness, color, and nutrition
Celery	2 stalks, diced	Aromatic base and texture
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes	3–4 medium, diced	Substantial body and earthy flavor
Broth (beef or chicken)	4 cups	Soup base—adds savory depth
Half-and-half or heavy cream	1–2 cups	Provides creaminess and richness
Cheddar cheese (sharp)	2 cups shredded (8 oz)	Melts smoothly, intense cheesy flavor
Mozzarella or Colby	1 cup shredded	Adds stretchy texture; mix improves melt
Flour or cornstarch	2–3 tbsp	Thickens creamy broth
Butter or oil	2 tbsp	For sautéing veggies and roux
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Essential seasoning
Paprika, thyme, bay leaf	1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp thyme, 1 bay leaf	For layered savory flavor
Optional mix-ins	Bacon, vegetables, spices	To customize texture and taste
Garnish	Green onions, bacon bits	Adds color, flavor, and texture