Cheese, Beef and Potato Soup

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or cubed stew meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season the beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat, and set the beef aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step brings out the flavors in the onion and garlic, creating a savory base for the soup.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the potatoes are covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

4. Add Dairy and Simmer:

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the milk and heavy cream. This adds creaminess to the soup and helps balance the savory flavors with a rich texture. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Cheese:

Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese blend of choice), allowing it to melt completely into the soup. Continue to stir until the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. Add the Beef Back In:

Return the cooked beef to the soup and stir until it’s evenly incorporated. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. The beef adds heartiness and depth, making the soup even more satisfying.

7. Serve and Garnish:

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Making the Best Cheese, Beef, and Potato Soup

1. Use a Starchy Potato: For the creamiest soup, use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes break down and help thicken the soup naturally, creating a velvety texture.
2. Make It Extra Cheesy: For an even cheesier soup, feel free to add more cheese! Try a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gruyère for added flavor. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top of each bowl for an extra cheesy finish.
3. Customize the Vegetables: While potatoes are the star of this soup, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to make it even heartier. Just chop them into small pieces and add them with the potatoes.
4. Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. The cheese helps to mellow out the heat, making for a flavorful and balanced dish.
5. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. You’ll still get a hearty soup, but with less fat.
6. Make It in the Slow Cooker: You can easily convert this recipe to a slow cooker version. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the potatoes and broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then add the dairy and cheese at the end, and cook until everything is melted and creamy.
7. Add a Little Crunch: If you like a bit of texture contrast, top your soup with crispy bacon bits or fried onions for added crunch and flavor.

How to Serve Cheese, Beef, and Potato Soup

This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served with the following sides:

1. Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. A warm, buttered baguette or soft dinner rolls are ideal.
2. Green Salad: A fresh, simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup and adds a light balance.
3. Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve the soup with buttery, garlicky bread. It’s the perfect sidekick to sop up all that cheesy goodness.
4. Cheese Sticks or Biscuits: If you’re craving more cheese, pair the soup with mozzarella cheese sticks or cheddar biscuits for a comforting, cheesy combo.

Variations on Cheese, Beef, and Potato Soup

1. Loaded Baked Potato Soup: For a loaded twist, top your soup with crispy bacon, sour cream, green onions, and extra shredded cheese. It’s like a loaded baked potato in soup form!
2. Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly option. You can even use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter soup.
3. Beef and Cheddar Chili Soup: Turn this soup into a chili by adding kidney beans, tomatoes, and chili spices like cumin and chili powder. This adds a hearty, spicy twist to the classic.
4. Creamy Beef and Broccoli Soup: Add some fresh broccoli florets for an added veggie boost. The broccoli will cook down nicely in the broth and pair wonderfully with the beef and cheese.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

Cheese, Beef, and Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that brings together the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors in every spoonful. Hearty and satisfying, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you need a warm, filling meal. It’s easy to prepare, fully customizable, and makes for a deliciously cozy experience.

So, whether you’re serving it as a meal

on its own or pairing it with a fresh salad or warm bread, this cheesy, beefy, and potato-filled soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.