Introduction

Warm, savory, and deeply comforting, Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with rich, aromatic notes and makes everyone hover near the stove. Tender potatoes, hearty beef, and a creamy, well-seasoned broth come together to create a bowl that feels like home. This soup stands out because it balances rustic simplicity with bold flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. In this guide to Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup, you’ll learn how to build layers of flavor, choose the best ingredients, and create a satisfying soup your family will request again and again. You’ll learn…

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup remains a favorite across generations. First, it delivers big comfort with minimal effort. You brown the beef, simmer the potatoes, and let the broth do the rest. The texture contrast is irresistible: soft, buttery potatoes against savory ground beef, all wrapped in a creamy yet balanced broth. This recipe also adapts beautifully to your pantry, making it a lifesaver when you need a filling meal fast. The flavors feel familiar but never boring, especially with subtle herbs and gentle seasoning that enhance the beef rather than overpower it. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving a bowl of cozy satisfaction, this soup checks every box with warmth and ease.

Ingredients

To make Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup, you’ll need simple, accessible ingredients that work together seamlessly.

1 pound (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 for flavor
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 150 g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes (about 700 g)
4 cups (960 ml) beef broth, low sodium
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese, optional but recommended
Each ingredient plays a role, from the starchiness of potatoes that naturally thicken the soup to the beef broth that builds depth.

Pro Tips

Mastering Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup comes down to a few key techniques.
First, brown the beef properly. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring so it develops a deep, savory crust. That flavor carries through the entire soup.
Second, cut your potatoes evenly. Uniform cubes ensure everything cooks at the same rate, giving you tender potatoes without any mushy pieces.
Third, add dairy gently. Lower the heat before stirring in milk and cream to prevent curdling and keep the broth silky smooth. If you want extra thickness, lightly mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot before serving. These small steps elevate a simple soup into something truly memorable.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about one tablespoon in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Build the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, and dried thyme. Toss everything together so the potatoes absorb the savory beef flavor and spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let the soup warm through without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

If using cheddar cheese, stir it in until melted and smooth. For a thicker texture, lightly mash some of the potatoes. Serve hot and enjoy the full comfort of Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup.

Variations

One of the best things about Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup is how easily it adapts. For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you enjoy bold flavors, turn it into a cheesy potato and beef soup by adding extra sharp cheddar and a pinch of mustard powder. For a vegetable boost, stir in diced carrots, celery, or corn during the simmering stage. You can even transform it into a slow cooker ground beef potato soup by browning the beef first, then letting everything cook low and slow for extra depth.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or garlic toast for a comforting dinner combination.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze it before adding dairy. Add milk and cream when reheating.

What potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly and thicken the soup naturally.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe contains no flour, making it naturally gluten-free.

How do I thicken the soup more?
Mash some of the cooked potatoes or add a small slurry of cornstarch and broth.

Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

Conclusion

This Classic Ground Beef and Potato Soup is comfort food at its finest — rich, creamy, and loaded with hearty beef and tender potatoes that warm you from the inside out. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, perfect for weeknight dinners, chilly evenings, or whenever you need a bowl of something deeply satisfying.