Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup will be your new go-to. It’s creamy, hearty, and loaded with tender Yukon gold potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese. Every spoonful is satisfying and perfect for cozy nights.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup
• Expert Tips for the Best Results
• Serving Suggestions
• Storing and Reheating
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Try These Cozy Soups Next
• Save and Share
• Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Think of it as a cheeseburger-meets-potato-soup hybrid in the best possible way. When the weather turns cold or you need something deeply comforting, this one-pot wonder has your back.

this recipe

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

Quick and Family-Friendly

This soup comes together in just about 40 minutes and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends and works great as a meal prep option for the week ahead.

Rich, Creamy, and Hearty

The flavor is bold and comforting, thanks to browned ground beef, perfectly seasoned broth, and sharp cheddar cheese. Yukon gold potatoes melt into the broth for a creamy texture while still holding their shape. A touch of paprika adds depth and warmth to every bite.

Naturally Gluten-Free and Adaptable

This recipe is gluten-free as written (just double-check your broth and cornstarch). You can easily adapt it for different dietary needs—like swapping ground beef for turkey or using dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives.

Ingredients and Substitutions

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes and Swaps

Beef: Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Potatoes: Yukon gold is best for a creamy texture. Russet or red potatoes work, but may alter the final texture.
Cheese: Go for freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt. You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend.
Cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though it may be less rich.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is browned and onions are soft, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the beef broth, diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Slowly stir in shredded cheese, a little at a time, making sure it melts completely before adding more.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through.
7. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir into the soup and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, or until thickened.
8. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

Best Practices

• Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
• Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Simmer gently after adding the cream to avoid curdling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding all the cheese at once can lead to clumping.
• Rushing the potato cook time might leave them underdone.
• Using pre-shredded cheese may affect melting quality.

Time-Saving Tricks

• Pre-chop onions and potatoes the night before.
• Use frozen diced potatoes for a quick shortcut.
• Brown the beef in advance and store in the fridge or freezer.

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve with This Soup

• Garlic focaccia or sourdough bread
• Classic dinner rolls
• Cornbread or savory muffins
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in black or rustic ceramic bowls to highlight the golden color. Add a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of parsley, and extra cheese on top for a finishing touch.

Drink Pairings

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime
• Light amber ale or pinot noir
• Warm apple cider for a cozy, non-alcoholic option

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Freezing Instructions

For best results, freeze without the cheese and cream. Let the base cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add cheese and cream after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Variations

Healthier Swaps

• Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese
• Replace cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk
• Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens

Add a Flavor Twist

• Stir in a pinch of cayenne for heat
• Top with crumbled cooked bacon for added richness
• Mix in a dash of Worcestershire sauce for umami depth

Holiday Version

Add leftover cooked turkey or ham instead of beef, and garnish with festive herbs like rosemary or thyme for a seasonal spin.

Try These Cozy Soups Next

If you love this cheesy beef and potato soup, you’ll definitely want to try these comforting soup recipes too:

• Creamy Sausage Potato Soup
• Easy Creamy Potato Soup Recipe
• Easy Sausage Potato Soup

Save and Share

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment, share your photos, and pin it to your soup board on Pinterest. Your feedback helps others find and love this recipe just as much.

Print