Indulge in the savory comfort of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup, a dish that encapsulates warmth while exuding a touch of refinement. This soup combines the heartiness of tender beef with creamy cheese and the earthiness of potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that is both sumptuous and satisfying. Its unique blend of textures and delightful aroma makes this dish an inviting centerpiece for any gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: A gourmet experience without the complexity.
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple components deliver outstanding depth of flavor.
- Impressive Flavor: The harmony between creamy cheese, savory beef, and hearty potatoes sets this soup apart from the ordinary.
Crafted with care, this recipe elevates everyday ingredients into a luxurious dining experience.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold is ideal for creaminess)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (use freshly grated for optimal melt)
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature enhances creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Topping
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)
- Additional cheese (for sprinkling)
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s well-cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
Tip: Deglaze the pot with a splash of broth to capture all the flavorful bits.
Introduce the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the beef mixture. Stir to coat and combine, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors for about 2 minutes.
Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Create Creaminess: Once the potatoes are soft, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk slowly while continually stirring.
Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese, if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Serve this soup in elegant, shallow bowls to emphasize its creamy texture. Consider garnishing with a delicate drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkling of freshly cracked black pepper for added visual appeal. Pair with artisanal bread or a crisp salad for a complete dining experience.
How to Store Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
To preserve both texture and flavor, cool the soup to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creaminess. Avoid boiling, which can separate the cheese.
Tips to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a richer flavor profile.
- Potato Variance: Consider using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and colorful twist.
- Texture Balance: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency while keeping some chunks for texture contrast.
- Herbs: Infuse with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary during the simmering stage for an aromatic boost.
Variation
For a gourmet upgrade, add a splash of truffle oil for a luxurious finish or incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy element. Serve with roasted garlic bread for an elegant side.
FAQs
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing step for a delightful kick.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still offers a satisfying flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup is a dish that elegantly marries comfort with sophistication, perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Its simplicity in preparation belies the gourmet experience it provides. We invite you to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A luxurious soup combining tender beef, creamy cheese, and earthy potatoes for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Additional cheese (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, then drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes to the beef mixture and stir for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk slowly while stirring continuously.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with fresh parsley and additional cheese, if desired.
Notes
Garnish with olive oil or black pepper for added appeal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg