Cheesy Beef Potato Soup: A Comfort Food Classic

Cheesy Beef Potato Soup. Just the name conjures up images of warmth, comfort, and a hearty meal on a chilly evening, doesn’t it? This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a recipe I’ve perfected over years of experimenting and tweaking to achieve the ultimate creamy, cheesy, beefy perfection. I’ve always loved the comforting nature of potato soup, and adding beef and a generous helping of cheese elevates it to a whole new level.

While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, hearty beef and potato soups have been enjoyed for centuries, appearing in various forms across different cultures. Think of the robust stews of Ireland or the rich, flavorful soups of Eastern Europe – all sharing a common thread of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly special. This particular Cheesy Beef Potato Soup recipe draws inspiration from those traditions, blending the best elements into a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Potato Soup

What makes this Cheesy Beef Potato Soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The tender beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth create a symphony of taste in your mouth. The generous amount of cheese adds a delightful sharpness and a satisfying richness that lingers long after the last spoonful. Beyond the incredible taste, it’s also incredibly convenient. It’s a one-pot wonder, perfect for busy weeknights, and easily adaptable to your preferences – add more vegetables, different cheeses, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick!

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed by this incredibly satisfying and flavorful Cheesy Beef Potato Soup. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup celery, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Beef and Vegetables

1. I start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, I add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent – about 5-7 minutes. This is crucial for building a good base of flavor.
2. Next, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter if you do.
3. Now it’s time for the ground beef! I crumble it into the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess grease.
4. I then stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. I cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup.
5. Time to add the vegetables! I add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. I give everything a good stir to combine.

Simmering the Soup

6. I pour in the beef broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. While the soup simmers, I prepare the cheese. I shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This ensures they melt smoothly into the soup later on.

Finishing Touches

8. Once the potatoes are tender, I stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and the milk. I stir gently to combine everything evenly. This step adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
9. I heat the soup through for another 5 minutes, making sure it doesn’t boil. I want to avoid curdling the milk.
10. Finally, I stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. I stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy and cheesy. This is the most rewarding part – the aroma of melted cheese is incredible!
11. I taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I add a little more salt or pepper, depending on my preference.
12. I serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. A sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the dish.

Tips and Variations

For a thicker soup:

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream of mushroom soup. This will thicken the soup naturally.

Spice it up:

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Add other vegetables:

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans. Add them along with the potatoes, carrots, and celery.

Use different cheeses:

Experiment with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a Mexican blend would work well.

Make it a slow cooker recipe:

Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese and parsley) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Make it ahead:

This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Cheesy Beef Potato Soup!

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for the ultimate Cheesy Beef Potato Soup! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. The rich, creamy broth, combined with tender beef and fluffy potatoes, creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The generous amount of cheese adds a delightful sharpness and richness that elevates the entire dish to another level. It’s also incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand.

Beyond the deliciousness, this Cheesy Beef Potato Soup is also incredibly easy to make. I’ve designed the recipe to be straightforward, even for beginner cooks. The simple steps and readily available ingredients mean you can whip up a batch in no time at all, without sacrificing flavor or quality. This is a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire, I guarantee it!

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. I love to serve my Cheesy Beef Potato Soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked bacon or shredded chicken to the soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese – Gruyere, cheddar, or even a blend of your favorites would all work wonderfully.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving. Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe to your liking – that’s the beauty of cooking! You can even easily adapt this recipe to make it a slow cooker Cheesy Beef Potato Soup for an even more hands-off approach. Simply brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

I’m so excited for you to try this Cheesy Beef Potato Soup recipe. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and it’s the perfect way to warm your heart and soul on a cold day. I truly believe this is one of the most satisfying and flavorful soups you’ll ever taste. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using #CheesyBeefPotatoSoup – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your thoughts.

Don’t be shy! Try this recipe today and let me know how it turns out. Whether you stick to the original recipe or create your own unique variation, I’m confident you’ll love this hearty and flavorful Cheesy Beef Potato Soup. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort and deliciousness. Happy cooking!

Remember to share your culinary adventures with me and the rest of the community! Your feedback and photos are always welcome. Let’s create a delicious online community of Cheesy Beef Potato Soup lovers!

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