Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Sink your spoon into a bowl of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup. This creamy cheesy soup is made with ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese! Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this comforting dish stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese makes it filling and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner cooks can whip up this delicious meal without stress.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course, or pair it with your favorite bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for any occasion!
• Rich Flavor Profile: The blend of spices and creamy cheddar creates a delightful flavor that elevates this soup beyond ordinary.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch of this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup ahead of time. It freezes well, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, providing uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 4 cups (32 ounces / 960 g) beef broth
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups diced potatoes)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, to taste

For the Creaminess

• 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• Parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add ground beef and onions. Cook while breaking the beef apart until fully cooked and onions are softened (8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the beef broth, diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. After boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese, adding a little at a time. Allow it to melt fully into the soup while stirring continuously to prevent clumping.

Step 5: Stir in Cream

Pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let the soup heat through for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Thicken the Soup

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water. Slowly pour in this slurry while continuously stirring the soup. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with parsley and extra cheese before serving warm.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery and garlicky flavors of garlic bread complement the richness of the soup.

Topped with Extras

• Chopped Green Onions: Add a fresh crunch with chopped green onions sprinkled on top.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang to every spoonful.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad can balance out the richness of the soup with its fresh veggies.

How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

To make your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Adjust Cheese Types: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or Gruyere for added depth.
• Control Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more cornstarch as needed.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

A delicious bowl of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup pairs beautifully with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Its sweet flavor balances nicely with the savory soup; consider baking it fresh for warmth.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition; try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa for a hearty addition that matches well with the soup.
4. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast; use olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella for flavor.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer an interesting twist that pairs well with the comforting flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can enhance the potato theme while providing a crunchy texture alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

• Boldly overcooking the beef: To prevent tough meat, cook the ground beef until browned but not dry. Overcooking can result in a chewy texture.
• Ignoring potato size: Cut your potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Uneven sizes can lead to some being mushy while others remain hard.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup. Adding it all at once can cause clumping.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Not thickening properly: If your soup is too thin, use a cornstarch slurry as directed. This helps achieve the creamy texture you desire.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup that may help you while preparing this dish.

What can I substitute for ground beef in Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

How do I make my Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, add a cornstarch slurry or increase the amount of cheese used during cooking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.

How long does Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup last in the fridge?

It will last for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made ahead as flavors meld together over time.

Is there a vegetarian version of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

Yes! You can omit the meat and replace it with vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms while using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a comforting choice that brings warmth on chilly days. Its creamy texture paired with savory beef makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences!