There’s something truly heartwarming about a big pot of soup bubbling away on a chilly evening. I vividly remember the first time I had a rich, cheesy beef and potato soup; it was during a family gathering in the fall. My aunt was concocting this delightful bowl of comfort food, and as soon as I took the first bite, it felt like a warm hug from the inside out. That’s why I can’t wait to share this recipe with you—it’s got everything: warmth, richness, flavor, and a simplicity that makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Why make this recipe
Imagine a cold evening where the world outside is shivering, but you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket, spooning up a fragrant bowl of cheesy beef and potato soup. You’ll love this recipe because it is the quintessence of comfort food—hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese all swirled together in a velvety broth.
This soup is not just about flavor; it’s also a nourishing hug in a bowl. The beef is packed with protein, while the potatoes fill you up with their creamy goodness. Plus, the heavy cream and cheddar cheese elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary, giving it that rich, indulgent character. And let’s not forget the fresh parsley on top—it’s like the cherry on your sundae, brightening up the whole dish and adding a pop of color. If you’re looking for a recipe that will keep you warm and satisfied, this is it!
Gather these ingredients
Let’s talk about the star ingredients that make this soup a showstopper:
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Ground Beef (1 lb): Choose a good quality cut, like 80/20 for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Don’t hesitate to swap it with turkey or chicken for a leaner option!
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Potatoes (4 medium, diced): You can use russets or Yukon Gold—both lend a fantastic creaminess to the soup. Remember to dice them evenly so they cook at the same rate.
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Onion (1, chopped): An essential aromatics component, it builds a wonderful flavor base. Try using shallots for a milder, sweeter taste.
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Beef Broth (4 cups): Homemade broth is a game-changer if you have the time! Otherwise, a high-quality store-bought broth will do just fine. Grab the low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
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Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): The oozy, melty heart of the soup! Feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or even a blend of cheeses for extra depth.
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Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is your ticket to a luxuriously creamy texture. You can substitute it with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version.
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Salt & Pepper to taste: Always taste as you go to ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned.
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Fresh Parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of freshness brings everything together and adds a nice contrast to the rich soup.
Preparing Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking—this process is as comforting as the soup itself!
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot, over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break the beef into small pieces, allowing it to develop a lovely crust. Drain excess fat for a clean finish.
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Add Potatoes & Broth: Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Stir it all together, and then bring that beauty to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer, covering it to trap all those delightful flavors. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Cream & Cheese Magic: Once your potatoes are ready, it’s time to add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir them into the pot until the cheese is melted and the soup is thick and creamy. This is where you might just want to take a little taste—it’s pure comfort!
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Season to Perfection: Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, a pinch can elevate the flavors, so taste as you go!
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Garnish & Serve: Now for the grand finale! Serve that steaming bowl of soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.
Best way to enjoy it
Now that you have your soup ready, the question is how to serve it! This cheesy beef and potato soup is a stand-alone star, but it loves the company of crusty bread or a light garden salad. Imagine dipping a warm, buttery piece of bread into the soup; the flavors meld beautifully!
For a cozy night, why not throw on a movie while you sip your soup? Or, if you’re in the mood for something festive, pair it with homemade cornbread. Trust me; it’s the kind of meal that becomes a cherished tradition.
Storage and reheating tips
Let’s talk about storing that precious leftover soup. You can keep your cheesy beef and potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If it appears thickened after cooling, just add a splash of broth or cream until you achieve your desired consistency.
For longer storage, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the same reheating instructions.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few little gems that can really elevate your soup-making game:
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Don’t rush the browning: Allow the beef to brown properly—this caramelization adds depth to the entire dish!
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Texture matters: If you prefer your potatoes to hold their shape, consider adding them later in the cooking process.
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Herbs & Spices: Feel free to add dried herbs like thyme or a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
Creative Twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some variations into the recipe:
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Veggie boost: Add in some carrots or celery while browning the beef for extra nutrition and flavor.
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Spice it up: Don’t be shy about adding a splash of hot sauce for a kick or garnishing with crispy bacon bits for a smoky touch.
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Cheese swap: Explore with different cheeses like pepper jack for heat or gouda for a smoky flavor.
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Thicken it: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water) towards the end.
Ingredients list
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-step instructions
- Brown the ground beef and onion in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add potatoes and beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Your questions answered
- How long does it take to make this soup?: Approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
- Can I make it in advance?: Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for several days.
- What can I serve with this soup?: Crusty bread, salad, or cornbread are all fantastic options!
- Is this soup freezer-friendly?: Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just cool before storing.
- What if I want a vegetarian version?: You can substitute the beef with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.
This cheesy beef and potato soup is not just a meal; it’s a joyful experience, perfect for sharing with friends and family—or just indulging in after a long day. So, go ahead, roll up those sleeves, and make it your own! Experiment, play with flavors, and share your delicious triumphs with the world. You’re now part of a vibrant cooking community, and I can’t wait to hear about your soup adventures!
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Description
This cheesy beef and potato soup is rich, flavorful, and perfect for chilly evenings. A delightful bowl that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Cooking Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Brown the Beef
In a large pot, over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat. -
Add Potatoes & Broth
Add the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. -
Cream & Cheese Magic
Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy. -
Season to Perfection
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. -
Garnish & Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Trans Fat 1g
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 22g44%
- Vitamin A 15 IU
- Vitamin C 25 mg
- Calcium 15 mg
- Iron 10 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 0 mcg
- Thiamin 0 mg
- Riboflavin 0 mg
- Niacin 0 mg
- Vitamin B6 0 mg
- Folate 8 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0 mg
- Phosphorus 25 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 0 mg
- Zinc 30 mg
- Selenium 0 mcg
- Copper 0 mg
- Manganese 0 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For variations, consider adding carrots or exploring different cheeses.
