There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s brimming with the heartwarming flavors of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup. Picture this: a brisk evening after a long day, and you can already smell the richness of simmering beef mingling with buttery potatoes and melted cheese wafting through your kitchen. It’s more than just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for gathering the family around the table.
This creamy delight combines tender chunks of Yukon Gold potatoes and savory ground beef, creating a satisfying meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. What I love most is how simple and delightfully indulgent it feels—ideal for those nights when you crave something special, yet effortless to whip up. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into a recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a dish that warms both the heart and the tummy.
Why is Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup irresistible?
Comforting, creamy goodness: This soup delivers a rich, velvety texture that warms you from the inside out.
Time-saving simplicity: With easy prep and minimal clean-up, you can have this meal on the table in no time.
Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will love the creamy flavors and hearty ingredients.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Perfect for leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option.
Gather everyone around for a comforting experience that you can effortlessly enjoy time and time again!
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for a creamy delight!
For the Soup Base
• Ground Beef – The main protein source; substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with onion powder or shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Beef Broth – Provides a savory base; vegetarian broth can work for a vegetarian version.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – Gives heartiness and creaminess; substitute with red or russet potatoes.
For Seasoning
• Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness; can be substituted with cayenne for heat or skipped entirely.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors; use sea salt as a substitute.
• Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; adjust to taste.
For Creaminess
• Mild Cheddar Cheese – Offers creaminess and flavor; sharp cheddar adds more bite; gouda works too.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a rich, creamy texture; half-and-half or milk can lighten it but will be less rich.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; flour can be used as an alternative.
• Water – Needed for the cornstarch slurry.
For Garnish
• Parsley – Adds a burst of color; optional; can also substitute with chives or green onions.
Gather these ingredients to kickstart your journey with this delightful Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup, a dish that brings comfort to your table!
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onions for about 8-10 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the onions are softened. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep it healthy!
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth, followed by the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and ready to soak up those delicious flavors.
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Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup for that perfect creamy consistency.
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Add the Cream: Mix in the heavy whipping cream, and heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes. This step adds richness that you simply cannot resist!
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Thicken the Soup: Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the soup while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes until beautifully thickened.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle your comforting Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy the delight of a warm, hearty meal!
Optional: Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Fridge: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious leftovers any day of the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without cheese and heavy cream in sealed containers for up to 3 months. Add these ingredients when reheating to maintain creamy texture.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat, then stir in cheese and cream until fully melted and mixed.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it stays safe and delicious.
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to make this comforting dish your own, bringing in flavors and ingredients that resonate with your family!
- Bacon Boost: Stir in crispy bacon bits for an irresistible flavor twist that adds savory depth to the soup.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in chopped carrots or celery to introduce some crunch and nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for a spicy version that warms you up from the inside out.
- Creamy Mushroom: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy element that complements the creamy texture beautifully.
- Cheese Medley: Use a blend of cheeses like gouda and pepper jack for elevated creaminess and a hint of spice.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to bring a fragrant herbaceous layer to your cozy bowl.
- Coconut Twist: For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, adding a dreamy tropical flair.
- Quinoa Nutritious: Mix in cooked quinoa for a protein boost that enhances heartiness while adding unexpected texture.
What to Serve with Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?
There’s nothing like curling up with a delightful bowl of this comforting soup, and finding the perfect accompaniment can turn it into a memorable meal.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf perfectly complements the creamy soup, allowing you to soak up every last morsel of rich flavor. It’s an invitation to dip and savor!
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Crisp greens and veggies create a delightful crunch, balancing the velvety goodness.
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Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky aroma of breadsticks enhances the meal’s comfort level, making them a scrumptious addition that no one can resist.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies, like carrots or broccoli, not only add nutrition but bring out an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are an excellent sidekick, providing an easy way to scoop up the creamy potato goodness. They’re a hit with both kids and adults!
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Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup. It’s the cherry on top of a family-friendly meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the soup entirely up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while stored in the refrigerator. To maintain the creamy texture, cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you plan to freeze it, simply omit the cheese and heavy cream before freezing, then store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stovetop, stir in the cheese and cream once heated, and simmer until everything is warmed through. This way, you’ll have a warm bowl of comfort with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
- Gradual Cheese Addition: To achieve a smooth and creamy texture, add the cheese gradually while stirring well to prevent clumps in your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup.
- Optimal Reheating: When reheating leftover soup, add cheese and cream after heating to maintain creaminess and prevent separation for the best flavor experience.
- Testing Potato Tenderness: Before adding the cheese, ensure that the potatoes are fork-tender; undercooked potatoes can affect the overall texture and satisfaction of the soup.
- Thickening It Right: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer a bit longer after adding the cornstarch slurry, stirring occasionally to achieve desired consistency.
- Custom Flavoring: Don’t hesitate to enhance the dish with spices like cayenne for heat or fresh herbs for a lively twist—it’s all about your taste!
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for my soup?
When selecting potatoes, I recommend Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. If you see dark spots or wrinkles, steer clear! Red and russet potatoes can also work well, but Yukon Gold really gives the soup that heartiness and creaminess we’re after.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Cool the soup to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to prevent any moisture loss that could affect the taste!
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?
Yes, you can! I recommend omitting the cheese and heavy cream before freezing. Transfer the cooled soup into sealed containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat, adding those ingredients back in afterward to preserve the creaminess and flavor.
Why is my soup too watery?
If your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup turns out a bit watery, fear not! It’s likely due to the cooking time or not enough thickening agent. Simply make a slurry with cornstarch and water, gradually add it to the soup while stirring, and let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes. You’ll have a thicker, heartier soup in no time!
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Very much so! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or even more vegetables if you prefer. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and opt for dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without the meat!
What should I do if I have allergies to some of the ingredients?
If you’re dealing with allergies, always be cautious! Substitute ingredients like using turkey or chicken instead of beef for protein if you’re sensitive to beef. Dairy allergies can be managed with non-dairy alternatives for the cheese and cream. Feel free to swap and experiment to make it work for your dietary needs!
Creamy Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large pot over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until cooked and softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, followed by diced Yukon Gold potatoes, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Gradually stir in shredded mild cheddar cheese until melted.
- Mix in heavy whipping cream and heat for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry and add to the soup while stirring. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired.