🧀 Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

by

 

The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

Looking for a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish to warm you up on chilly days? This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is the cozy bowl of comfort you didn’t know you needed. Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a generous helping of melted cheese, this soup is a hit with families, meal-preppers, and soup lovers alike.

Originally inspired by midwestern cheeseburger soups, this recipe combines rustic charm with bold, creamy flavors. It’s a perfect one-pot dinner, ideal for weeknights or lazy weekends.

Want to explore a fun twist on this idea? Try this Cheeseburger Soup recipe for a variation that adds pickles and ketchup for a fast-food flavor explosion. And if you’re curious about other types of cheese-based soups, check out the history and variations of cheese soup to see how different cultures have elevated this dish.

Let’s dive into this rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting bowl of goodness! 🍲

📝 Ingredients

Gather everything before you begin. This makes the process smoother and quicker!

  • Ground beef (500g) 🥩

  • Potatoes, peeled and diced (3 medium) 🥔

  • Onion, finely chopped (1 medium) 🧅

  • Garlic, minced (2 cloves) 🧄

  • Carrots, diced (optional – 1 large) 🥕

  • Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups) 🧀

  • Whole milk or heavy cream (1 cup) 🥛

  • Beef broth (3 cups) 🥣

  • Butter (2 tbsp) 🧈

  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp, for thickening) 🌾

  • Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂

  • Paprika (1 tsp) 🌶️

  • Chopped parsley or chives (for garnish) 🌿

👨‍🍳 Preparation Steps

  1. Sauté the aromatics
    In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes).

  2. Brown the beef
    Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Break it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

  3. Add the vegetables
    Toss in the diced potatoes and carrots. Pour in the beef broth, stir, and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.

  4. Thicken the soup
    In a small bowl, mix flour with a bit of water or broth to form a slurry. Slowly add it to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid clumps.

  5. Add the dairy magic
    Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and milk. Do not boil—just heat gently until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

  6. Season to perfection
    Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the soup rest for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

  7. Garnish and serve
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley, more cheese, or crunchy bacon bits if desired.

🔥 Tips & Tricks

  • Always shred your own cheese for better meltability. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture; Russet for a fluffier bite.

  • To avoid cheese clumping, stir in small amounts and keep the heat low.

  • Make it in advance! The flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze before adding cream for better texture retention.

🌈 Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix it up? Here are some fun and tasty alternatives:

  • Low-carb version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.

  • Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.

  • Cheese swap: Try smoked Gouda, Pepper Jack, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

  • Different proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even leftover steak.

  • Veggie boost: Add celery, peas, or corn for extra nutrition.

For another hearty and cheesy comfort dish, consider trying this Bacon Cheddar Tater Tot Casserole, which combines crispy tater tots with smoky bacon and melted cheddar cheese.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Presentation makes all the difference. Here’s how to serve it like a pro:

  • Add a swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese.

  • Top with crispy bacon bits for crunch.

  • Serve alongside toasted garlic bread, crusty baguette slices, or buttermilk biscuits.

  • Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.

❓FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but do it before adding the dairy to prevent separation. Add the milk and cheese after thawing when reheating.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but mild cheddar or a mix with Monterey Jack also works well.

How do I make it thicker?
Use more potatoes, mash a portion of them into the broth, or add an extra flour slurry.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Absolutely, but reduce the simmering time and add them after browning the beef.

🌟 Bonus Ideas

Love creamy soups? Southern Living’s collection of potato soups has more delicious ideas to explore. Try a loaded potato soup or a broccoli cheddar combo next!

💬 Conclusion

Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and so satisfying you’ll want to lick the bowl clean! 🥄

Give this recipe a try and let your kitchen fill with irresistible aromas. Don’t forget to leave a comment, share your favorite variations, or tag a friend who needs this soup in their life. 🧡🍽️

Happy cooking! 😊👩‍🍳👨‍🍳