Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a family favorite in my home. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering of friends and family. The combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a delightful comfort food experience that everyone will love.

What makes this soup even more special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time on the stove, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
• Perfect for leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese creates a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for this delicious dish!

For the Soup Base

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

For Flavor

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

For Creaminess

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

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• Parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you enjoy or have available.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you’re looking for some extra heat.
• Creamy alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version while still keeping it rich.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

To start off, grab a large pot or Dutch oven and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with finely diced onions. Cook these together until the beef is fully browned and the onions are nice and softened—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to break up the meat as it cooks! Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your soup light.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Next up, add minced garlic into the pot. Cooking it for just one minute allows its wonderful aroma to fill your kitchen, enhancing all those savory flavors already developing in your pot.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Now it’s time to add the star players—pour in your hearty beef broth along with those diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Sprinkle in paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Let it simmer away for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender; trust me; they’ll soak up all that deliciousness!

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Do this slowly while stirring continuously so that every bit melts smoothly into the broth without clumping—this will give you that dreamy cheesy goodness!

Step 5: Mix in Cream

Pour in heavy whipping cream next; this adds richness to our soup! Give everything a good stir again so that it’s well combined. Let it heat through for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Thicken It Up

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water until smooth—that’s our thickening agent! Slowly pour this slurry into your bubbling soup while stirring constantly. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens beautifully.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Finally, ladle out generous servings into bowls. Garnish each one with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired! Now sit back and enjoy every warm spoonful of this truly comforting Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh potatoes and high-quality broth enhance the overall flavor of the soup, making it taste rich and comforting.
• Brown the beef well – Taking the time to brown the ground beef properly adds depth of flavor to your soup, making each spoonful more satisfying.
• Stir slowly when adding cheese – Gradually incorporating the cheddar cheese helps it melt smoothly into the soup without clumping, giving you that creamy texture we all love.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup before serving and feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Make it ahead of time – This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Serving Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup can turn a cozy meal into a delightful experience! Here are some ideas for presenting this comforting dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and a slight crunch that complements the creaminess of the soup.
• Crispy bacon bits (turkey or plant-based alternative) – Add some crispy bits for a savory crunch. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for a little extra flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread rolls – A warm, crusty roll is perfect for dipping into your cheesy soup, soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Garden salad – A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables – Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious addition that enhances your meal without overpowering it.
• Cheesy garlic bread – For those who can’t get enough cheese, cheesy garlic bread makes for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with every bite of soup.

Enjoy creating and sharing this heartwarming Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup with those you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or freeze it for later. Here’s how to properly store it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion if freezing.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid freezer burn, press out as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in intervals, stirring in between for even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making or enjoying your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup.

Can I use different types of cheese in Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

Absolutely! While cheddar is commonly used for its creamy melt and flavor, you could try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses for a unique taste.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat thoroughly before serving!

Is this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crackers or cheese toast for a comforting meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delicious Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights at home. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!