Looking for a one-pot meal that’s rich, filling, and loaded with comfort? Look no further than Beef and Potato Cheddar Soup. This cozy dish combines tender ground beef, hearty potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy broth to create a soul-warming meal perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for busy days, or simply craving something indulgent, this soup ticks all the boxes. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and the starchy goodness of potatoes, it’s a meal in a bowl.
- Cheesy & Creamy: The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, velvety texture and bold flavor.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
Ingredients
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a robust, flavorful soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: green onions, or extra cheese
Kitchen Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, heat the remaining olive oil or butter. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
- Add the potatoes, beef broth, smoked paprika, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy
- Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup to your desired consistency. Blending part of the soup makes it thicker and creamier while keeping some potato chunks intact for texture.
5. Add Cheese and Beef
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot, mixing well. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or an extra sprinkle of cheese for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest soup. Pre-shredded cheese can result in a grainy texture due to added anti-caking agents.
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best as they become tender and creamy when cooked.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer an even thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the soup during the simmering stage.
- Add More Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can elevate the flavor even further.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: While the soup freezes well, the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Pairing Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Bread: Serve with crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or buttery biscuits.
- Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich, creamy soup.
- Drinks: A light beer, dry cider, or even a glass of Chardonnay makes an excellent beverage pairing.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works as a leaner alternative while still delivering great flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth and any additional garnishes (like bacon) are gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables?
Feel free to add other veggies like corn, peas, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and variety.
What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the cheese from separating. If it seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.
A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
This Beef and Potato Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending hearty, cheesy, and creamy flavors into one irresistible dish. It’s easy to make, perfect for leftovers, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one. Happy cooking! 🥔🧀🥄