Introduction
Can a hearty bowl of soup transform your weeknight dinner routine while also helping you meal prep like a pro? If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, uninspired and short on time, you’re not alone. The modern home cook juggles work, family, and a desire for nutritious, satisfying meals. And that’s where Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup steps in—an indulgent, yet easy-to-make dish that hits all the right notes.
This comforting classic combines creamy cheddar cheese, savory ground beef, and perfectly tender potatoes into a rich, satisfying soup. With under 60 minutes of cook time and minimal prep, it’s 20% faster than traditional stew-style soups, making it ideal for busy families, working professionals, or anyone craving a hearty meal without the hassle.
Read on to discover a step-by-step recipe, creative variations, healthy tweaks, and tips to make this your new favorite dinner staple.
Ingredients List
Let’s build a flavor foundation with high-quality, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended for flavor and texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for extra depth)
- 1 cup whole milk (substitute with oat milk or almond milk if dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for richness)
Ingredient Swaps:
- Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version
- Cauliflower instead of potatoes for lower carbs
- Nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan-friendly version
Timing
This soup is surprisingly quick to make:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
That’s about 20-30% less time than typical hearty soups, making it a win for both speed and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your onions, peeling and cubing your potatoes, and shredding your cheese (avoid pre-shredded varieties if you want the smoothest melt).
Step 2: Cook Aromatics and Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Create the Roux Base
Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir to coat. This step helps thicken the soup naturally. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Simmer with Potatoes
Add potatoes to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese
Lower the heat and slowly stir in milk, followed by shredded cheese. Mix continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Optional Enhancements
If desired, stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Add corn or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair with bread or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (serves 6):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 590mg
Compared to other cheesy soups, this version offers more protein and is moderately lower in sodium, especially when using low-sodium broth.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make it lighter without compromising flavor? Try these substitutions:
- Swap beef for turkey or chicken: Reduces saturated fat.
- Use low-fat milk and cheese: Cuts down calories.
- Replace potatoes with cauliflower or sweet potatoes: Alters the glycemic index.
- Use whole wheat flour or arrowroot: For gluten-free or fiber-rich versions.
- Add greens like spinach or kale: Boosts vitamins and minerals.
These modifications make the recipe adaptable for low-carb, gluten-free, or weight-conscious diets.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your soup night with these pairings:
- Serve in a bread bowl: For a bakery-style experience.
- Top with fresh scallions, crumbled bacon, or crispy onions.
- Pair with a fresh arugula salad: Balances the richness.
- Include a side of garlic toast or rosemary focaccia.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or chili oil for heat.
This soup also works well as a small starter for dinner parties or as a main meal with hearty sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking potatoes: Makes them mushy and ruins texture.
- Adding cheese too fast: Causes it to clump or separate.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
- Skipping the roux step: Results in a watery soup.
- Not seasoning properly: Always taste and adjust!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tip: Chop vegetables and cook beef a day ahead to save time.
Conclusion: Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup is more than a comfort food—it’s a weeknight lifesaver, a crowd-pleaser, and a versatile meal option. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and fast prep time, it delivers restaurant-quality taste in a home-cooked dish.
Whether you’re feeding a family or batch cooking for the week, this soup is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.
FAQs: Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup
Q: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A: Yes. Brown the beef first, then transfer to a slow cooker with all ingredients except cheese and milk. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in cheese and milk at the end.
Q: How do I make this dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew or almond-based cheeses.
Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour, and make sure your broth is gluten-free.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure your pot is large enough and scale seasonings accordingly.
Q: What’s the best cheese for melting?
A: Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere work beautifully for a silky texture and rich taste.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, savory, and packed with hearty flavor. Made with just 7 core ingredients and ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this satisfying soup brings together cheddar cheese, tender potatoes, and seasoned beef for a soul-warming bowl of goodness.
Ingredients
✅ Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup :
Main Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium russet potatoes, peeled & cubed
3 cups chicken broth (or beef broth)
1 cup whole milk (or non-dairy alternative)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup chopped carrots
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Suggested Substitutions:
Ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein
Sweet potatoes or cauliflower for lower carbs
Dairy-free cheese and plant milk for a vegan option
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Dice onions, peel and cube potatoes, mince garlic, and shred cheese.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Sauté onion 3 mins until soft. Add garlic, then beef. Cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Add Flour & Broth
Sprinkle flour over beef; stir well. Gradually pour in broth while stirring to thicken and avoid lumps.
Step 4: Simmer with Potatoes
Add potatoes. Bring to a boil, then simmer 20–25 mins until potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add Dairy & Cheese
Lower heat. Stir in milk slowly, then add shredded cheese. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Customize & Finish
Add optional sour cream, corn, or carrots. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, herbs, or bacon bits. Pair with toast or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
✅ Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Soup :
Don’t skip the roux (flour step)—it’s key for a thick, creamy texture.
Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or chili flakes.
Meal prep tip: Cook beef and chop veggies ahead for faster assembly.
Freezes beautifully! Just omit the dairy until reheating for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Soup
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 23 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g