When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to chase away the chill of the day. If you’re on the lookout for a recipe that is not only delicious but also satisfies your cravings, then you’re in for a treat! This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that is bound to become a favorite in your household. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness!
Why Make This Recipe
There are endless reasons to try out this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup. It combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese for a flavor-packed dish that is simple to make. In addition, it is perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or a satisfying meal for the family, this soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s a great way to bring everyone together around the dinner table.
The one-pot nature of this recipe means less fuss and cleanup, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or whenever you’re short on time. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some vegetables and a great option for meal prepping for the week ahead!
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Want to create this comforting dish in your kitchen? Here’s how!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, ensuring to drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- After boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt while stirring continuously.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
How to Serve That Recipe
Serving this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is as easy as pie. Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping. A side salad can complement the soup perfectly, adding freshness to the meal. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
How to Store
Leftovers? No problem! You can store any remaining soup in air-tight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. To freeze, let it cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove. Add a splash of milk if the soup seems too thick after reheating!
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can make a remarkable difference.
- Don’t rush the sautéing process. Cooking the onion and garlic until they’re just soft adds depth to the soup.
- Feel free to adjust the cheese to your liking – more cheese makes it creamier!
Variation
You can easily switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand. For instance, swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Also, adding vegetables like carrots or peas not only enhances nutrition but adds color to the soup. If you like a smoky flavor, consider adding some diced bacon or smoked sausage while cooking the beef.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to season the soup well. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper according to your palate.
- If you want thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork after they’ve cooked to create a creamy consistency.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy, so check for tenderness around the 15-minute mark.
How Many Servings
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the busy week ahead.
Calories and Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 24g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Health Benefits of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Not only is this soup scrumptious, but it also packs nutritional value. Ground beef provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle health, and is loaded with vitamins B6 and B12. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, which is vital for heart health, while the addition of cheddar adds calcium for strong bones. If you serve the soup with a side salad, you can increase fiber and vitamins in the meal.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Absolutely! This soup offers a balanced profile of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a smart choice for older adults. The soft consistency makes it easy to chew and digest, while the fiber from the potatoes can help with digestive health. Adding a variety of veggies can further boost its nutritive value, making it an excellent comfort food option.
FAQs
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Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! You can brown the beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add milk and cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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Can I use other types of cheese? Certainly! Feel free to mix cheeses. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack can bring a different flavor profile.
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What can I use instead of beef broth? You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter base. Chicken broth works too!
In conclusion, the Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is not just another recipe; it’s an avenue for creativity in your kitchen and a source of warmth on chilly days. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself sharing it with friends and family, catapulting it to “viral” status among your loved ones!
