Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice and Chop: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the Onions and Garlic: To the pot with the cooked beef, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in the Flour: Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

1. Pour in the Broth: Slowly add the 4 cups of chicken or beef broth to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps from the flour.
2. Incorporate the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in the Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, lower the heat and stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream (or milk) until fully combined.
2. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring until melted and smooth. This will give the soup its signature cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Season the Soup

1. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to enhance the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
2. Enjoy: Ladle the Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup into bowls and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced ham for a different flavor. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.

Q2: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. Keep in mind that the soup will be less rich and creamy.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the soup?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables used.

Q4: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor of the soup. If possible, opt for freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting.
2. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the beef and vegetables. For a thinner soup, add more broth or cream as needed.
3. Simmer Longer for Depth of Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer for a richer flavor. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
4. Don’t Skip the Thyme: Adding dried thyme enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup, providing a subtle herbaceous note that complements the cheese and beef.
5. Serve with Bread: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping, making it a complete meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
• Reheating: When reheating, you may want to add a splash more broth or cream to restore its creamy texture, as it can thicken when stored.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates comfort food at its best. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese makes for a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy. Easy to make and filled with flavor, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm, cheesy bowl of goodness that will nourish both body and soul