Name: Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 ½ cups); 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 4 cups (32 ounces / 960 g) beef broth; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups diced); 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper, to taste; 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for garnish); 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Parsley, chopped for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, the Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. This rich, creamy soup combines savory ground beef with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, all blanketed in a luscious mild cheddar cheese sauce that will warm your soul from the very first spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a reliable, cozy meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

A close-up of a black bowl filled with thick, creamy stew containing chunks of light yellow potatoes and small pieces of brown meat, with green herb specks visible in the sauce. A metal ladle is lifting some stew from the bowl, showing the rich texture of the creamy mixture. In the background, there is another black bowl filled with the same stew, a wooden bowl with green herbs, and slices of bread on a white marbled surface. A beige cloth napkin lies near the bowl. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy cheddar cheese, every component contributes to making this soup both satisfying and delicious.

Ground beef (1 pound): Provides a rich, savory base that makes the soup hearty and filling.
Yellow onion (1 large, finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the broth as it softens and cooks down.
Garlic (1 teaspoon, minced): Brings a warm, subtle kick of flavor that enhances the savoriness of the soup.
Beef broth (4 cups): Creates a flavorful liquid foundation that ties all ingredients together.
Yukon Gold potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and diced): Tender and creamy, these potatoes give the soup substance and texture.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smoky undertone and vibrant color to the broth.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Season perfectly to enhance all the savory profiles.
Mild cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Melts into the soup for that signature creamy, cheesy goodness.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Enriches the soup, giving it a velvety smooth finish.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) and water (2 tablespoons): Combined to create a slurry that thickens the soup to the perfect consistency.
Parsley (chopped): Fresh herb garnish that brightens each bowl both in flavor and appearance.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef and Onions

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking them together while breaking the beef apart. This step allows the beef to brown beautifully and the onions to soften, releasing their natural sweetness — it usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Cook Briefly

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and stir it around for about a minute. This brief cooking releases garlic’s fragrant aroma without letting it burn, which sets the stage for all the comforting flavors to come together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Broth, Potatoes, and Seasoning

Pour in the beef broth, then add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a rolling boil before lowering the heat to medium-low for a gentle simmer. This simmering period, about 15 to 20 minutes, allows the potatoes to become tender and absorb all the rich flavors from the broth and spices.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese Gradually

Now comes the star of the Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe: the cheddar cheese. Slowly add the shredded mild cheddar in small batches, stirring constantly. This gradual melting helps create a smooth, creamy texture and avoids clumps of cheese forming, ensuring every spoonful is luxuriously cheesy.

Step 5: Add Heavy Cream

Once the cheese has fully melted, pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir well. This enriches the soup further, giving it a silky mouthfeel and balancing the savory notes with creamy smoothness. Let the soup warm through for 3 to 5 minutes, but avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating.

Step 6: Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup while stirring continuously. Keep the soup simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens to the perfect, hearty consistency—rich enough to coat the back of your spoon.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and a little extra shredded cheddar on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor contrast that brightens the creamy richness of the soup, making every spoonful as inviting as the last.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe

Two bowls of creamy soup sit on a dark wooden table. Each bowl is filled with a light brown creamy soup containing chunks of potatoes and small pieces of ground meat, with some green herbs mixed in. The soup has a soft, smooth texture with sprinkled chopped parsley on top for color. One bowl is topped with a small pile of bright orange shredded cheddar cheese in the center. Near the bowls, fresh green parsley leaves and extra shredded cheddar cheese rest on the table, beside two old silver spoons and a grey cloth napkin. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped parsley gives a fresh herbal aroma and vibrant green color that livens up the bowl. Additional shredded cheddar cheese melting on top adds an irresistible melty finish that makes your soup look as delicious as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls—perfect for dipping into all that creamy, cheesy goodness. A crisp green salad offers a refreshing contrast that keeps the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls made from hollowed-out round loaves for an edible container. You can also top it with crispy fried onions or bacon bits for added texture and a smoky punch that complements the Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent cheese from sticking to the bottom and to help the soup come back together with that perfect creamy consistency. Add a splash of broth or cream if it becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mild cheddar creates that classic creamy texture, you can experiment with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or even Monterey Jack for a slightly different melt. Just be mindful of salt content as it might vary.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can by substituting the ground beef with plant-based protein or sautéed mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cheese and cream keep the soup rich and indulgent even without meat.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling Yukon Gold potatoes results in a smoother texture and more uniform bite, but if you prefer a bit of rustic charm and extra nutrients, leaving the skins on is fine as long as you wash them well.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping in the soup?

Adding cheese gradually and stirring continuously while it melts is crucial. Also, ensure the soup isn’t boiling when you add the cheese, as high heat can cause it to seize up and become grainy.

Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Diced carrots, celery, or even corn make great additions—just add them in with the potatoes so they cook through during the simmering stage, complementing the flavors without overpowering the classic profile.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe has a special place in my heart because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or a crowd-pleasing option, this soup delivers in spades. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite for cozy nights in or casual family dinners. Give it a go, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!