Description
A rich and hearty soup featuring tender diced potatoes, savory seasoned ground beef, and smoky cheddar cheese all combined in a creamy, comforting broth. Perfect for chilly days, this beef and smoked cheddar potato soup delivers deep, robust flavors with every warming spoonful.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat and set the browned beef aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
- Make a Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the beef broth and milk (or half-and-half), stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and the roux is fully incorporated.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Return Beef to Soup: Add the browned ground beef back into the pot and stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Melt Cheese and Finish Soup: Reduce heat to low and add the shredded smoked cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season and Garnish: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve the soup warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For an enhanced smoky flavor, consider adding a small amount of smoked paprika.
- Use freshly shredded smoked cheddar cheese for better melting and improved texture.
- If you prefer a thicker and creamier soup, blend part of the soup and then stir it back in.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
