Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

If you have a craving for something warm, filling, and packed with bold flavors, this Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe is absolutely the perfect choice. Imagine tender ground beef simmered to perfection with hearty potatoes and a rich, smoky cheddar cheese that melts into a velvety broth. It feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl and brings a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share, this soup delivers on every level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for this Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe are some straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding depth with beef, creaminess with cheese, or body with potatoes.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base that brings rich flavor and protein.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle fruity taste.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and aromatic depth once softened.
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: Potatoes give the soup its comforting, chunky texture and earthiness.
• 3 cups beef broth: Infuses the soup with meaty goodness and a flavorful cooking liquid.
• 1 cup milk or cream: Creates a smooth, creamy finish that balances all the robust flavors.
• 1½ cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded: Smoky, sharp, and melty, this cheese is the star that elevates the soup.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and enhance every ingredient.

How to Make Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s golden brown and no longer pink. This step locks in that rich meaty flavor and sets a sturdy foundation for the soup. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat to keep the broth clean and not greasy.

Step 2: Soften the Onion

Next, add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it becomes translucent and tender. The onions bring a subtle sweetness and a fragrant base that melds perfectly with the beef.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes followed by the beef broth. This combination forms the heart of the soup, with the potatoes absorbing all those savory beef flavors as they cook. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender

Let the soup slowly simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork. This gentle cooking allows the flavors to marry beautifully and thickens the broth slightly.

Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the milk or cream alongside the shredded smoked cheddar cheese. Stir occasionally until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy. The smoky cheddar adds an irresistible depth that really lifts this soup to a whole new level.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to make sure all the flavors are perfectly balanced. Now your soup is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed!

How to Serve Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions adds a pop of color and a mild sharpness that pairs wonderfully with the rich soup. You could also top it with crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a rustic crusty bread or warm garlic rolls for dipping. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps the meal balanced and refreshing, especially if you’re serving this as a hearty lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—it makes the presentation cozy and inviting. Alternatively, garnish with a drizzle of smoky paprika oil or add a handful of roasted corn for a textural surprise. The options are endless and truly let your creativity shine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it down completely before covering it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.

Freezing

This soup freezes perfectly but is best frozen without the milk and cheese. Store the base in an airtight container, and add the dairy when you’re ready to reheat. This keeps the texture from separating and preserves the fresh taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Add the smoked cheddar and milk at the end of reheating to keep them creamy and melted flawlessly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While smoked cheddar adds a unique depth, you can swap it for sharp cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

For sure! Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the onion to add more color, texture, and nutrients.

How can I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a blender until smooth, then stir it back in before adding the cheese.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef for mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth while keeping all the other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

This Beef & Smoked Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. It’s simple to prepare but absolutely bursting with layers of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to comfort food. Grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and dive into this deliciously satisfying soup—you won’t regret it!

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