Chef Mitchell preparing Hearty Cheese Beef Soup
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Hearty Cheese Beef Soup recipe during a cold winter evening, experimenting with what I had in my pantry. After several trials, I perfected the balance of flavors and textures. Each bowl reminds me of cozy family dinners, making it a staple in my home. I hope it brings you as much warmth and joy as it does for me!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I've dedicated my career to perfecting hearty dinner recipes. My passion for cooking was ignited in culinary school, where I learned the art of combining flavors. Teaching others to create delicious meals is my joy.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Hearty Cheese Beef Soup served on a plate

Why This Hearty Cheese Beef Soup Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of flavors. The combination of beef, vegetables, and cheese creates a hearty meal that satisfies even the hungriest of diners. The use of fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

The technique involved in simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Browning the beef first adds depth, while the gradual incorporation of cheese gives it a luscious finish. The result is a soup that not only warms the belly but also the soul.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider using bone broth instead of regular beef broth. It enhances the richness of the soup. Also, be careful not to overcook the vegetables; you want them to be tender but still retain some texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this soup. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or beans as a protein source. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using lentils, which may require a longer simmer.

The soup is done when the vegetables are fork-tender and the soup is heated through. The cheese should be fully melted, creating a creamy texture. Give it a taste to ensure the flavors are balanced, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For an extra indulgence, serve with grilled cheese sandwiches. The combination is perfect for a comforting meal.

Hearty Cheese Beef Soup will last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! Making the soup in advance allows the flavors to deepen. Just store it in the fridge after cooling. It can also be made in larger batches and frozen for future meals. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the creamy texture.

The best way to reheat this soup is on the stovetop. Pour it into a saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, you can add a little beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your soup turns out too dry, it may lack enough liquid.

Solution: Add more beef broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency. Stir well and heat through.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If any toppings or vegetables aren't crisp.

Solution: Make sure to sauté vegetables separately before adding them to the soup, allowing them to retain some crunch.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their flavor.

Prevention: To prevent this, add vegetables at different times based on their cooking time. For instance, add faster-cooking vegetables like peas later in the process.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the soup has an uneven cook and some pieces are undercooked.

Recovery: Make sure to stir the soup well during cooking and check the doneness of all ingredients before serving.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the bottom of your pot burns, it can affect the flavor.

Prevention: Always cook on medium heat and stir frequently. If the soup begins to stick, add a splash of broth to loosen it.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: To fix a soup that is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the soup is too salty, add a potato to absorb some salt, cooking it in the soup for 10-15 minutes.

Bland: For a bland soup, enhance flavors with more salt, spices, or herbs to your taste.

Fresh ingredients for Hearty Cheese Beef Soup

Essential Ingredients for Hearty Cheese Beef Soup

The key ingredients in this soup are ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a mix of creamy cheeses. Using quality beef ensures a robust flavor, while fresh vegetables add texture and nutrition. The combination of cheddar and heavy cream creates a luxurious base.

When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh, seasonal produce for the best taste. Aged cheese works beautifully for depth of flavor, while homemade beef broth can elevate the entire dish. Quality matters in creating a hearty, satisfying soup.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Beef: Choosing the right cut of ground beef is crucial. Aim for a mix that has around 80% lean meat to 20% fat for optimal flavor and juiciness. Avoid extra-lean ground beef, as it can yield a dry soup.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. Grating your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded versions helps with melting and enhances the soup's texture. You can experiment with different cheese blends for variety.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh, seasonal vegetables not only boosts the nutrition of your soup but also elevates its flavor. Carrots, potatoes, and peas are great additions, but feel free to mix in your favorites for a personal touch.
Cooking process for Hearty Cheese Beef Soup

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process is straightforward and rewarding. Start by browning your ground beef to develop rich flavors, followed by sautéing onions and garlic. Incorporate vegetables gradually to ensure even cooking, and let the soup simmer for a while to meld the flavors.

Achieving a creamy texture relies on slowly adding cheese and cream at the right time. This ensures a luscious feel that elevates the hearty nature of the soup. Stir continuously to achieve the perfect consistency.

Key Technique for Perfect Hearty Cheese Beef Soup

The key to a delicious Hearty Cheese Beef Soup lies in the layering of flavors. Start with browning the beef and building a flavor base with sautéed vegetables. This technique enhances the depth of flavor in the soup, making each bowl a warm, comforting experience.

Hearty Cheese Beef Soup

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup flour
    All-purpose
  • 2 cups milk
    Whole milk
  • 1 cup beef broth
    Low sodium
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
    For added flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
    80/20 blend for juiciness
  • 1 cup chopped onions
    Finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Freshly minced
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
    Russet or Yukon Gold
  • 1 cup diced carrots
    Chopped
  • 4 cups beef broth
    Homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For creaminess
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    Sharp for flavor
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
    For flavor
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    For depth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
    Added at the end
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic

    Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.

  3. Add Vegetables

    Stir in diced potatoes and carrots, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

  4. Pour in Broth

    Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer.

  5. Season the Soup

    Add salt, pepper, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.

  6. Simmer

    Let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

  7. Add Cream and Cheese

    Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

  8. Finish with Peas and Parsley

    Add frozen peas and chopped parsley. Cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Hearty Cheese Beef Soup, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you're planning to freeze it, ensure it's in a freezer-safe container, as it keeps well for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hearty Cheese Beef Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. For an extra treat, serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this soup! You can add different vegetables like corn or bell peppers for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Experimenting with different cheese types can also yield delightful variations.