Introduction
The Ultimate Cheesy Beef Soup serves as the perfect meal for winter, providing warmth and comfort in every spoonful. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef with a medley of vegetables and a creamy cheddar cheese finish, making it an ideal choice for cold evenings. The blend of flavors, from the rich beef broth to the sharp notes of cheddar cheese, creates a satisfying experience that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re huddled by the fireplace or gathered around the dinner table with family, this soup is sure to be a hit.
Ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings, the Ultimate Cheesy Beef Soup is versatile enough to accommodate a variety of occasions. Its thick, creamy texture and flavorful ingredients ensure that it stands out as a comforting option when temperatures drop. This is a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul, reminiscent of cozy nights spent with loved ones.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Yield/Servings: 6 servings
– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe
Ingredients
Ground beef and veggies make up the heart of this comforting soup. Here’s a rundown of all ingredients needed for the recipe.
Key Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
Liquids
– 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
– 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk for a twist)
Flavor Enhancers
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Final Touches
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, releasing its aromatic fragrance.
2. Introduce the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s an excess of fat, carefully drain it to keep your soup light.
3. Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Gradually pour in the beef broth and milk, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the frozen peas to the pot, stirring well. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the soup, creating a luxuriously creamy texture.
6. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is thicker than you prefer, loosen it with a splash more of milk or broth until reaching your desired consistency.
7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Optional Presentation Tips
For an appealing display, serve the soup in rustic bowls. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top and scatter croutons for added texture. A slice of crusty bread on the side can make the meal even more comforting and satisfying.
Equipment Needed
Cooking Utensils
To successfully prepare the Ultimate Cheesy Beef Soup, you’ll need some basic cooking utensils:
– Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for even heat distribution and preventing scorching as you sauté and simmer. The capacity of the pot should comfortably accommodate the ingredients without crowding.
– Wooden spoon for stirring: A sturdy wooden spoon is ideal for mixing the ingredients, particularly when breaking up the ground beef and ensuring even cooking.
Serving Dishware
After preparation, you’ll want to serve your delicious soup in a manner that enhances its visual appeal:
– Bowls for serving: Rustic bowls can elevate the comfort factor of your dish. They can also provide an inviting atmosphere, perfect for cozy winter evenings.
– Ladle for portioning: A ladle will help serve the soup gracefully into bowls, ensuring that each portion contains a good balance of beef, veggies, and that indulgent cheese.
Preparation Steps
To ensure a smooth cooking process, follow these detailed preparation steps aimed at creating a robust and flavorful soup.
Sautéing Aromatics
Start with the foundation of flavor by preparing the onion and garlic:
– Heat olive oil in the pot: Place your heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm up.
– Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened: Introduce the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the pot, stirring occasionally. The goal is to sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, which enhances its sweetness and releases aromatic fragrances that lay the groundwork for the soup’s flavor.
Cooking the Beef
Detailing how to brown the ground beef for enhanced flavor:
– Introduce ground beef into the pot: After the aromatics are softened, add the ground beef into the pot. This step is crucial as it contributes to the soup’s protein content and heartiness.
– Break apart and cook until browned: Use a wooden spoon to break the beef apart into smaller pieces. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, roughly 5-7 minutes. If any excess fat or liquid accumulates, be sure to carefully drain it, as this will help achieve a lighter soup.
Adding Vegetables
Incorporating the colorful veggies into the mix:
– Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes: Once the beef is cooked, add diced carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes to the pot. These vegetables not only provide texture but also add layers of flavor and nutrition to the soup.
– Cook until vegetables start softening: Continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally for about another 5 minutes. This step helps the vegetables lose their rawness, paving the way for enhanced flavors as they absorb the juices from the beef.
Building the Soup Base
Describing the process of creating the soup’s rich base:
– Pour in beef broth and milk: Gradually pour in the beef broth along with the milk, which lends creaminess to the final dish. This combination creates a flavorful and hearty broth that acts as a wonderful base for the soup.
– Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper: Enhance the flavor further by adding Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and generously season with salt and black pepper. The Worcestershire sauce imparts a savory depth, while the thyme adds an aromatic quality. The smoky notes from the paprika will elevate the dish, making it perfect for winter warmth.
Simmering the Soup
Allowing the ingredients to meld together is a vital step in creating the full-bodied flavor of the soup. After combining all the ingredients, you will bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring that all vegetables reach a tender consistency and the flavors develop harmoniously. This simmering stage is crucial for creating that layered taste that makes comfort food so appealing.
Bringing to a Simmer
Achieving the right cooking temperature is essential for the development of flavor and texture in your cheesy beef soup. Once you have added all the ingredients and brought the mixture to a boil, it’s time to lower the heat to achieve a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors of the beef, vegetables, and seasonings to meld together beautifully.
Cook the soup for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot. During this time, the vegetables will become tender, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup. A simmer is characterized by small bubbles breaking the surface rather than a rolling boil, which can negatively affect the texture of your soup.
Checking and Adjusting Consistency
Deciding how thick you want the soup to be is subjective and can depend on personal preferences and serving purposes. After the initial cooking time, evaluate the soup’s thickness. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes, allowing some liquid to evaporate.
On the contrary, if your soup feels too thick, you can adjust with milk or broth as needed, keeping in mind that you can always add more but cannot take away. It is advisable to add in small increments, allowing enough time for the soup to incorporate the liquid and reach your desired creaminess.
Final Ingredients
Adding the final touch of flavor and texture will elevate your cheesy beef soup to the next level of deliciousness.
Adding Frozen Peas
Frozen peas are a brilliant addition to the soup, bringing a vibrant pop of color and a sweet flavor contrast. Simply stir in the frozen peas at the end of the cooking process, allowing them to heat through for just a few minutes. This short cooking time helps maintain their bright green color and nutrients.
Incorporating Cheddar Cheese
The crowning glory of this soup lies in the addition of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Fold it into the pot off the heat to allow it to melt gently and combine thoroughly. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese perfectly, creating a rich and creamy texture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the soup for a comforting, cheesy experience in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
The way you present your soup can heighten the dining experience.
Portioning
When serving, take a ladle and carefully ladle the soup into individual bowls. Make sure each bowl gets a fair portion of the delicious beef, tender vegetables, and creamy broth. It’s advisable to use a ladle with a deep bowl to avoid spills and ensure an ample serving.
Garnishing
To enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your soup, garnish it with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Not only does this add an eye-catching touch, but it also contributes a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the soup. If you want to elevate your dish further, consider drizzling a small amount of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving. This adds a delightful richness and helps to shine up the overall presentation.
Variation Ideas
Customization can lead to a unique experience with each batch of cheesy beef soup.
Cheese Alternatives
If you want to experiment with different cheese flavors, consider using gouda or mozzarella for creamy variations. Gouda provides a nutty flavor and smooth texture, while mozzarella adds a delightful stretchiness that can contribute to the soup’s overall creaminess.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to vary the vegetable contents to include your favorites. Incorporating spinach, kale, or even corn can add nutritional value while introducing new textures and flavors to the dish. Leafy greens can be added towards the end of cooking to ensure they maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
Dietary Modifications
For those adhering to specific dietary needs, substitutions can be easily made. Using a plant-based milk alternative allows you to cater to vegan diets while still retaining the creamy texture favored in this soup. Additionally, using ground turkey or chicken can provide a leaner protein option without compromising the heartiness of the dish.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy this comforting soup over multiple days.
Refrigeration
Leftover soup should be stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking to prevent any bacterial growth. It is recommended to consume the soup within 3-4 days, as the quality begins to decline after this period.
Reheating
Reheating your cheesy beef soup can be done in either a stovetop pot or microwave. If using the stovetop, reheat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching the bottom. If using a microwave, transfer your soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to allow steam to escape. Heat in increments, stirring between each, until it reaches the desired temperature.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values can vary depending on specific brands and measurements, here’s an overview of what you can expect per serving.
Caloric Breakdown
This cheesy beef soup is high in protein due to the ground beef and cheese, which contributes significantly to its calorie content. Depending on the proportions used, a typical serving can range between 400-600 calories, with a balanced profile of protein, fats, and carbohydrates from the various ingredients.
Health Benefits
The main ingredients in this soup offer various health benefits. Ground beef provides essential proteins and minerals like iron and zinc, while the inclusion of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes adds important vitamins and dietary fiber to support overall health.
The Ultimatum
The ultimate cheesy beef soup is an exquisite blend of rich flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients. Cooking time is manageable, making this dish perfect for warming winter evenings or sharing with family and friends. The result is a nourishing bowl that is sure to be a comfort during chilly days.
