Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and filling dish that combines the flavors of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a comforting meal, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its blend of hearty ingredients and velvety texture, it’s the perfect meal for your family. Read on for the complete recipe and discover how to make this cheesy, delicious dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup stands out because of its simplicity and comforting flavor. It’s quick to prepare and features ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The ground beef brings a savory richness, while the potatoes add heartiness and the melted cheddar cheese gives the soup that irresistible creamy texture. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a cozy gathering, this soup will become a favorite. It’s family-friendly, and the flavor combination will appeal to both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

For this soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ground Beef: The main protein, adding flavor and richness to the soup.
• Yellow Onion: Provides a savory base that pairs well with the beef.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Beef Broth: The liquid base that ties the soup together.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Soft, creamy potatoes that add texture and body to the soup.
• Paprika: A mild spice that adds a warm flavor.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors of the soup.
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the flavors.
• Mild Cheddar Cheese: The cheese that makes this soup “cheesy,” adding melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds richness and creates a creamy texture.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup and gives it a silky consistency.
• Water: Used to create the cornstarch slurry.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing any ingredients or have specific dietary preferences, here are some substitutions:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives still add protein and flavor but are lower in fat.
• Russet Potatoes: If you don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes, Russet potatoes will work well but may alter the texture slightly.
• Different Cheeses: For extra flavor, try swapping cheddar for Gouda, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. Each will contribute a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: For a creamier texture, you can substitute a little cream cheese in place of some of the heavy cream.
• Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onions. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it browns and softens the onions. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the beef broth, diced potatoes, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until each portion melts into the soup.
5. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 3-5 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the soup while stirring constantly. Continue to simmer the soup for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional shredded cheese before serving.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

• Be sure to gradually add the cheese to avoid clumps, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
• The cornstarch slurry is key for thickening the soup. Without it, the soup may remain a bit too thin for some tastes, but it will still be delicious.
• You can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be aware that the soup may thicken as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth or milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.
• If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various side dishes:

• Bread: Serve with some warm dinner rolls, sourdough bread, or garlic breadsticks for dipping.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the soup.
• Spicy Version: For a bit of spice, try adding some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Toppings: Top your soup with crumbled bacon, green onions, or extra shredded cheese for an added layer of flavor.

Freezing and Storing Tips

This soup can easily be stored and even frozen for future meals:

• To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to freeze the soup, omit the cheese and heavy cream before freezing. These ingredients can separate when thawed, so it’s best to add them back in after reheating the soup.
• To reheat, simply thaw the soup and heat it on the stovetop, adding in the cream and cheese once it’s warmed through.

Why Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is Perfect for Cold Weather

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than a hot, creamy soup to warm you up. This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a perfect choice. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavors that make it the ideal winter meal. Plus, with its cheesy goodness and tender potatoes, it’s sure to become a staple in your soup rotation.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory beef, creamy potatoes, and rich melted cheddar cheese into a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you up. With its easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, this recipe is a winner every time. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this cheesy, comforting soup tonight!

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