This rich and creamy potato soup is loaded with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Loaded with protein, potatoes, and a creamy broth.
- Cheesy and Comforting: Perfect for a cozy, homemade meal.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup and more flavor.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra warmth)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Pour in the beef broth and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
- Stir in the cooked ground beef and heavy cream (or milk).
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or crispy bacon.
- Serve hot with bread or crackers for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best Soup
- For extra flavor, use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stove, stirring frequently.
Reheating Tips:
Reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
- With garlic bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- Alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Topped with sour cream and crispy bacon for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Soup is the perfect meal for a cozy night in. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Try this easy one-pot recipe and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.