If you’ve ever dreamed of a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of hearty ground beef, tender Yukon Gold potatoes, and rich mild cheddar cheese swimming in a creamy, comforting broth. Every spoonful offers a perfect balance of savory depth and cheesy goodness, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to cozy up with again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A thick creamy stew with visible chunks of yellow potatoes and small pieces of browned meat sits in a white bowl, with a metal ladle lifting a spoonful full of the hearty mixture, showing the stew’s rich texture and soft ingredients. In the blurred background, another white bowl filled with yellow shredded cheese is visible, resting on a white marbled surface along with slices of bread and some green herbs. A beige cloth is placed to the side, adding a cozy touch to the scene, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role — from the savory beef flavor to the creamy texture provided by the cheese and cream, creating a soup that’s both satisfying and super flavorful.

Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty protein base that adds rich flavor and satisfying texture to the soup.
Yellow onion, finely diced (1 large): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down with the beef.
Garlic, minced (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle aromatic kick that enhances the beef and broth.
Beef broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid foundation that brings the soup to life and tenderizes the potatoes.
Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & diced (2 pounds): Creamy potatoes that break down slightly to thicken the soup naturally and add great texture.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smoky warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the flavors in the soup.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon or to taste): A mild heat that keeps the soup lively.
Mild cheddar cheese, shredded (1½ cups plus more for garnish): Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy richness.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and a silky texture.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) and water (2 tablespoons): Combined as a slurry to gently thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

Start by heating your pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely diced yellow onion. As the beef browns, gently break it apart with your spoon, allowing the onions to soften and sweeten the mix. This base sets the savory tone for the entire soup, so take your time until the beef is fully cooked and the aroma is heavenly. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from getting too oily.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic. Garlic only needs about a minute to release its fragrant oils, so stir continuously to avoid burning. This quick step infuses the broth with a subtle, mouthwatering depth without overpowering the other flavors.

Step 3: Stir In Broth, Potatoes, and Spices

Pour in the beef broth, unlocking a rich, savory base. Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes—they’ll soften and thicken the soup beautifully as they cook. Sprinkle in the paprika for a gentle smoky warmth, then season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low, allowing this cozy mixture to simmer until the potatoes are just fork-tender—expect about 15 to 20 minutes of delightful bubbling.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Now comes the best part: stirring in the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Add it gradually, giving it time to melt fully before adding more. This keeps the cheese silky and smooth rather than clumpy, transforming the broth into a luxuriously creamy delight.

Step 5: Add the Heavy Cream

Pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix it into your soup. This step elevates the richness and silkiness, wrapping every ingredient in a luscious creaminess that feels indulgent but balanced.

Step 6: Thicken With Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Pour this slowly into the simmering soup while stirring continuously. This thickens the broth to that perfect, spoon-coating consistency in just a few minutes, making your Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe irresistibly hearty.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish your bowl of goodness with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and an extra handful of shredded cheddar on top. These final touches brighten the look and add a fresh flavor contrast that makes every spoonful sing.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe

Two white bowls filled with a creamy soup containing chunks of potato and bits of ground meat, topped with a small pile of shredded orange cheese and sprinkled with green herbs. The soup has a light beige color with visible pieces floating inside, showing a thick texture. The bowls are placed on a dark wood surface with fresh green herbs and a wooden bowl with more shredded cheese nearby. There is also a grey cloth napkin and two silver spoons on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a wonderful garnish, lending a pop of color and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness. Don’t be shy with extra cheddar cheese either — it adds that final melty, cheesy punch everyone loves.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls for dipping. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the hearty flavors without overwhelming the delicate creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. You could also top each serving with crispy bacon bits or diced green onions to add texture and bold flavor contrasts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making the soup even tastier the next day. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to keep this Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container but avoid adding extra cream before freezing, as it may separate. Instead, add fresh cream when reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick after thawing, stir in a small splash of beef broth or cream to loosen it to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mild cheddar provides the perfect melt and flavor, feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.

Are Yukon Gold potatoes essential?

Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor, but russets or red potatoes can work in a pinch. Just note that the texture might change slightly.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cheese and potatoes will still create a rich, comforting experience.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Flour can be used as a thickener alternatively, but use about twice the amount of flour as cornstarch and whisk it in carefully to avoid lumps.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when adding the garlic for a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overwhelming the cheesy comfort.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cozy, comforting flavors that fill your home with warmth and happiness. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is a go-to that will quickly become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and savor the rich, cheesy goodness in every spoonful!