This Cheesy Beef & Potato Soup is warm and comforting, loaded with beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl on a chilly day!
Making this soup feels like a fun party in my kitchen, especially when the cheese melts perfectly. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping—such a cozy combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the soup, but you can easily swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes as they become fluffy and creamy when cooked. However, Yukon Golds work well too. If you want to cut carbs, cauliflower can be a great substitute; just blend it to a creamy texture after cooking!
Heavy Cream: If you’re short on heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can add creaminess, although they will slightly alter the taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a little parmesan. Feel free to use vegan cheese if you want a plant-based soup!
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes are Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender potatoes is to cut them evenly into small cubes. This ensures they cook at the same rate. When they are added to the broth, make sure it’s boiling so they start cooking right away.
- Cover the pot to hold in steam and heat for quicker cooking.
- Check the potatoes for tenderness by poking them with a fork; they should be soft, not mushy.
- Remember that they will also cook a little more when you add the cream and cheese, so don’t overcook them!
How to Make Cheesy Beef & Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of comfort in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break it up as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it out so your soup doesn’t become greasy.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Now, toss the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot with the beef. Sauté them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add great flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Potatoes and Spices:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes along with the beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a lively boil. This should only take a few minutes!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork. This is when the flavors will really come together!
5. Create the Creamy Base:
When the potatoes are nice and soft, pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese has melted and your soup is creamy and cheesy. Don’t forget to taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you want!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Lastly, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with some chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every spoonful of your deliciously cheesy beef and potato soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It may result in a lighter flavor, so you might want to add a pinch more seasoning. Cook it the same way as you would the beef, and follow the rest of the recipe as-is for a delicious alternative.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. If you use milk, consider adding a touch of flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup slightly. Just add it gradually while stirring to achieve your desired consistency.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to stir and add a splash of broth or milk for creaminess!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with a meat substitute, such as lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add in some chopped vegetables like carrots or celery for additional flavor and texture.
