Name: Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3-4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk or cream; 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste

I still remember the first time I made this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup—it was a cold evening, the kind where you want something cozy bubbling on the stove. I had a few simple ingredients on hand and the inspiration to combine hearty ground beef with creamy, cheesy potatoes. The result was everything I hoped for: rich, filling, and absolutely comforting.

What I love most about this soup is how it brings together flavors that remind me of childhood comfort food, but with a richer, more indulgent twist. The tender chunks of potato soak up all the beefy, cheesy goodness, and every spoonful delivers a satisfying balance of texture and taste. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel hugged from the inside.

I often serve this soup when guests come over, and it never fails to earn compliments. Whether you need a quick dinner solution or want to warm up during the colder months, this is the recipe to keep in your rotation. For more comforting inspiration, check out my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, or the hearty Shipwreck Dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

This soup checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal: it’s warm, cheesy, and hearty. It comes together with everyday ingredients, and you can make a big pot to enjoy throughout the week. It’s also incredibly versatile, easy to adapt to your taste, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or foodies, everyone will find something to love in this flavorful pot of comfort.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: The base of this soup, ground beef adds a rich, savory flavor and protein that makes the soup heartier and more satisfying.

Potatoes: A crucial element for texture and body, potatoes absorb the soup’s flavors and give each bite a creamy, starchy balance.

Cheddar Cheese: This brings the “cheesy” factor into the spotlight. Melted into the broth, cheddar creates a luscious and creamy texture that ties everything together.

Onion: Finely chopped onion enhances the soup’s flavor depth with a subtle sweetness and aromatic note.

Garlic: Just a couple of cloves add a warm and slightly spicy flavor that perfectly complements the beef.

Carrots: These provide a slight sweetness and extra heartiness, plus a pop of color that makes the soup look as good as it tastes.

Celery: Alongside carrots and onion, celery rounds out the aromatic base and adds a slight crunch.

Beef Broth: The foundation of the soup, it amplifies the beefy flavor and brings all ingredients together in a savory embrace.

Milk or Cream: For added richness and a silky finish, milk or cream turns the broth into a comforting and smooth delight.

Flour or Cornstarch: Used to thicken the soup just enough to coat the back of your spoon with cheesy, beefy goodness.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, and drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the beef. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Thicken the Base

In a small bowl, whisk flour or cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Stir it into the soup to help thicken the broth.

Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese

Pour in the milk or cream, then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Let it simmer gently for a few more minutes, stirring often.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, cheesy richness in every spoonful.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily make this soup your own. Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you don’t have cheddar, use a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a gooier finish. Potatoes can also be substituted with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version. And for a smoky depth, stir in some cooked bacon or smoked paprika.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a thick slice of crusty bread or a buttery biscuit to soak up all that cheesy goodness. A light side salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy base. For a heartier spread, serve alongside a baked potato or a grilled cheese sandwich. It also makes a cozy starter for a casual dinner party.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. This soup also freezes well—just cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is ideal for meal prep. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat slowly and add a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

Can I freeze Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

How do I thicken Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup without flour?

You can use cornstarch or even instant potato flakes. Both will give you that thick, velvety consistency without altering the flavor.

What toppings go well with Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup?

Try topping your bowl with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese. A dollop of sour cream also adds a delicious tang.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this cozy bowl of Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup, you’re going to love my One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. It combines hearty beef with a creamy garlic-infused sauce that’s hard to resist. Another must-try is the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole if you’re looking for something just as comforting with a different texture. And for a quick weeknight fix, check out my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup recipe for your next cozy meal! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always just a click away. You can also share it with your friends and family on Facebook or send the link in a text to someone who needs some weeknight dinner inspiration. Every save and share helps more people discover and enjoy this cheesy, hearty comfort food!

Yield: 6 serving