If you are craving a hearty, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe. It combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables in a rich, creamy broth that will leave you smiling with every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a satisfying, delicious meal, this soup brings together simple ingredients in a way that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component brings something special—beef for robust flavor, potatoes for heartiness, and a blend of vegetables that add texture and color to brighten up each bowl.
- 1.25 lbs ground beef: Choose lean for a healthier bite or regular for richer flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing the veggies and beef.
- 1.5 tbsp butter: Infuses the soup with a subtle creaminess and depth.
- 1 large onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation.
- 3 carrots, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a beautiful pop of orange.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Contributes a mild, refreshing crunch.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory punch that awakens the flavors.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the soup’s flavors together harmoniously.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth without overpowering.
- 2 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the soup for that luscious, comforting texture.
- 5 cups broth (I like Imagine Organic Chicken Broth): The heart of the soup’s savory liquid, boosting depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami for a satisfying richness.
- 1 cup cream: Makes the soup decadently smooth and rich.
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch chunks: Provides body and a creamy bite once cooked.
- 1 cup corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful pop of color.
- Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors beautifully.
- Pepper to taste: Gives a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
How to Make Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step builds the deep, savory base your soup needs, so be sure to get a nice, even browning without rushing.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, melt the butter and toss in the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the veggies are tender and aromatic, roughly 5 to 7 minutes. This softens them enough to blend their flavors smoothly into the broth.
Step 3: Season and Thicken
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Then stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in the broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps, creating a velvety base for the soup.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Simmer
Add the diced potatoes back into the pot along with the browned ground beef. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and allow everything to simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Corn
Finally, stir in the cream and corn, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to warm through. The cream makes the soup irresistibly smooth, while fresh corn adds bursts of sweetness and a lovely textural contrast.
How to Serve Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your steaming bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or even crispy bacon bits for a delicious finish that adds both color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions also brightens each serving beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with warm crusty bread or flaky biscuits to soak up every last drop. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, while roasted vegetables complement the hearty texture perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that doubles as an extra treat! Or, try layering ingredients artfully in a clear bowl to show off the vibrant colors and textures before ladling warm broth on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend, and it will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative. Just brown it the same way but keep in mind it has a milder flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly to taste.
What type of potatoes works best in this soup?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape while cooking but still become tender, giving the soup that perfect comforting texture.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the cream for coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Feel free! Diced bell peppers, peas, or green beans can be great additions that add variety and nutrition without overpowering the classic flavors.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be thick enough to coat your spoon but still ladle easily—think rich and creamy, not chunky stew. Adjust the broth quantity or flour amount to reach your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like coming home. It’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to comfort meal that’s perfect any time of year. Grab your pot and dig in to this soul-warming delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any meal. Combining tender ground beef, diced potatoes, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich broth, this soup delivers robust flavors with a creamy texture. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying dish ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1.25 lbs ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 tbsp butter
- 1 cup cream
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 cup corn
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Liquids
- 5 cups broth (I like Imagine Organic Chicken Broth)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces, and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1.5 tablespoons of butter to the pot with the beef. Once melted, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Season and Thicken: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste and help thicken the soup.
- Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce: Gradually pour in 5 cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add 1/2 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the diced potatoes and 1 cup of corn to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in 1 cup of cream to add richness to the soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. Warm through but avoid boiling once cream is added.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot with your choice of bread or garnish if desired.
Notes
- To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or green beans for added color and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- This soup freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
