Creamy Cheddar Beef and Potato Soup – Easy One-Pot Recipe

There’s just something about a warm, hearty bowl of soup that instantly soothes the soul. Whether it’s the silky texture of the broth or the rich aroma of onions and garlic simmering away, soups have a way of making even the dreariest days feel a little brighter. And when you combine the richness of ground beef, the velvety smoothness of cheddar cheese, and the comforting starch of potatoes—all gently brought together in a creamy, savory broth—you get something that tastes like pure nostalgia.

This creamy cheddar beef and potato soup has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months when we’re craving something that sticks to the ribs but doesn’t require hours of effort. What makes it really special is the layering of textures and flavors: tender chunks of potatoes, melt-in-your-mouth cheddar, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a broth so rich and comforting, it feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

I first made this soup on a whim after a long, chilly day when I needed something quick, cozy, and family-friendly. I had some ground beef in the fridge, a bag of potatoes that needed using, and some shredded cheddar cheese left over from taco night. I started tossing things in the pot, adjusting the seasoning, and after just one bowl, I knew it was a keeper. Since then, I’ve made it countless times—with little tweaks here and there—but the core of the recipe remains unchanged because it’s just that good.

If you’re someone who loves a good one-pot meal, this soup is going to be your new best friend. It’s the kind of dish you can serve to a crowd or just make on a Sunday night for easy leftovers throughout the week. Even picky eaters tend to go back for seconds, and you’ll love how adaptable it is depending on what’s in your fridge.

So, get ready to chop, stir, and simmer your way to a pot of rich, cheesy, beefy goodness that will warm you right down to your toes.

Why You’ll Love This creamy cheddar soup Recipe

If you’re not already halfway to the kitchen, let me give you a few more reasons why this creamy cheddar beef and potato soup deserves a spot on your weekly dinner rotation. It’s easy to prepare, full of bold and comforting flavors, and perfect for feeding the whole family on a budget. Let’s break it down.

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best parts about this recipe is how truly simple it is. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients—just real, wholesome food that comes together in a single pot. Most of the cooking time is hands-off, which makes this soup an ideal candidate for busy weeknights. A bit of chopping, a little sautéing, and a short simmer is all you need to turn everyday staples into something special.

It’s a One-Pot Wonder

We all love a recipe that keeps the dishes to a minimum, and this one checks that box beautifully. From browning the beef to melting the cheese, everything happens in just one pot. Fewer dishes mean more time to relax and enjoy your evening—which is exactly what you need after a long day.

Flavorful and Comforting

The flavor in this soup is deep and savory, with rich undertones from the beef broth, garlic, and butter. The cheddar adds a sharp, creamy finish, while the potatoes soak up all that deliciousness. It’s the kind of flavor that feels indulgent but doesn’t overwhelm the palate.

Totally Customizable

You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand. Swap in ground turkey or chicken, use different cheeses, or add extra veggies like corn or peas. It’s a flexible base that welcomes creativity. Plus, if you need to make it gluten-free or lighter, there are easy modifications to help you get there.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

Kids love the creamy, cheesy texture, and grown-ups appreciate the depth of flavor. It’s filling, satisfying, and feels like something you’d get at a cozy little diner—only better because you made it yourself. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or some crackers, and you’ve got a meal that keeps everyone happy.

Health Benefits of this creamy cheddar soup

While creamy and rich might not be the first words that come to mind when you think of healthy eating, this soup offers more nutritional benefits than you might expect. With a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats, it’s a hearty and wholesome meal that satisfies your body as much as your taste buds.

Rich in Protein

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and keeping you full and satisfied after eating. Using lean ground beef (at least 85% lean) helps reduce saturated fat without compromising flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken or turkey work just as well and still pack plenty of protein per serving.

Full of Nutrient-Dense Vegetables

Potatoes often get a bad reputation, but they’re actually a great source of essential nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They also provide dietary fiber, especially when you leave the skins on (which you can do for extra nutrition and texture). Onions and garlic, used as aromatics in this recipe, offer additional antioxidants and may help support heart health and immune function.

Balanced Carbohydrates

The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates that give your body a steady source of energy. When paired with protein and healthy fats, these carbs help balance blood sugar levels and keep hunger at bay for longer periods of time.

Healthy Fats and Dairy

The milk, cream, and cheese in this recipe bring in healthy fats and calcium, both of which are important for bone health and hormone production. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can easily reduce or omit the cream and use low-fat milk without sacrificing too much creaminess.

No Preservatives or Additives

Unlike store-bought creamy soups, which often contain artificial preservatives, excess sodium, or processed thickeners, this homemade version lets you control exactly what goes into your meal. It’s made with real, whole ingredients—no flavor enhancers or strange chemical names in sight.

Customizable for Dietary Needs

This soup can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry instead of traditional flour. For a lower-carb version, you could substitute part of the potatoes with cauliflower. And if you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap the milk and cream for unsweetened non-dairy alternatives and use a plant-based cheese.

So while this soup tastes indulgent, it’s also a balanced and nourishing meal that works beautifully in a variety of eating plans.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the details of cooking, let’s take a quick look at the time, servings, and nutrition involved so you know exactly what to expect.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

This soup comes together surprisingly fast. While the potatoes are simmering, you can whisk your milk and flour slurry, shred the cheese, and get everything ready for the final stir.

Servings

Yield: Serves 6 to 8 people

This recipe makes a generous pot of soup that can easily feed a large family or provide leftovers for a few days. If you’re cooking for one or two, it freezes beautifully, so you can portion it out and enjoy it later.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 410 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 15% of the RDA
Iron: 18% of the RDA
Sodium: 720mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium broth and less added salt)

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used. You can always tweak the recipe to suit your nutritional goals—whether that means reducing fat, boosting protein, or cutting back on carbs.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with a little explanation of what each one brings to the dish.

1 lb ground beef: This is the protein base of the soup. Choose lean beef (like 85% lean or higher) for a lighter version. Ground chicken or turkey also work well.

1 medium onion, diced: Adds depth of flavor and a bit of natural sweetness when sautéed.

3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings warmth and savory aroma that ties the whole dish together.

4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These add bulk, creaminess, and a mild, earthy flavor. Yukon Golds or Russets are great choices.

3 cups chicken or beef broth: This is the flavor foundation of the soup. Beef broth gives a deeper flavor, while chicken broth keeps it lighter.

2 cups milk (whole or 2%): Adds creaminess without being too heavy. You can substitute with non-dairy milk like oat or almond if preferred.

1 cup heavy cream (optional): For those days when you want ultra-creamy soup, this takes it over the top.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives that iconic creamy cheddar finish.

2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the broth. You can also use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and is used to sauté the onions and garlic.

1 tsp smoked paprika: This brings a subtle smokiness that elevates the savory flavors.

½ tsp dried thyme (optional): Thyme adds a soft herbal note that works wonderfully with the beef and potatoes.

Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning. Start light and adjust as the soup simmers.

¼ cup green onions or parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, colorful finish that also adds brightness to the flavor.

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up and ready to go, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. Let’s walk through every step so you feel totally confident from start to finish.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This creamy cheddar soup may taste like it simmered all day, but the truth is, it’s surprisingly quick and easy to bring together. Let’s walk through each step in detail so you feel completely confident from the moment you start cooking. Remember, everything is made in one pot, which keeps cleanup simple and your kitchen calm.

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s completely browned. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. This usually takes about 6–8 minutes. Once the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, drain the excess grease. This step helps prevent the soup from becoming too oily.

Set the cooked beef aside in a bowl. Don’t worry if a little bit of fat remains in the pot—it’ll help flavor the aromatics in the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot (don’t wash it—those browned bits at the bottom are pure flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the diced onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften and turn translucent. You don’t want to brown the onion too much—just get it nice and tender.

Next, add the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can quickly turn bitter. You’ll notice the kitchen starting to smell amazing already.

Step 3: Simmer the Base

Now it’s time to build the base of your soup. Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat them in the buttery, flavorful base. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. This is a great moment to taste the base seasoning and adjust the salt level to your preference.

Pour in the broth. You can use chicken or beef broth here—beef will give a deeper, heartier flavor, while chicken keeps things light and mellow. Either way, make sure the broth covers the potatoes.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot partially and let the potatoes cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Stir occasionally during this step to prevent sticking and to keep the flavors well combined.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

While the potatoes are simmering, you can prepare your milk and flour slurry. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the all-purpose flour and about ¼ cup of the milk until smooth. This step is important—it prevents lumps from forming when you add the thickener to the hot soup.

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, stir the slurry into the soup. This helps thicken the broth gently without overpowering the texture. Pour in the remaining milk and the optional heavy cream, stirring everything together.

Let the soup simmer gently for another 3–5 minutes to allow the flour to cook out and the mixture to thicken. You’ll notice the broth turning velvety and rich. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a splash of extra milk or broth to thin it to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Return the Beef

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, making sure each addition melts fully before adding more. This helps the cheese integrate smoothly into the broth and prevents clumping.

Once all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth, return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 more minutes to bring the flavors together.

Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning—this is your chance to add a little extra salt, pepper, or a pinch more paprika if you want a smokier flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent.

This soup is absolutely delightful served hot with a side of crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or buttery crackers. It’s filling enough to be a full meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with simple sides.

How to Serve this creamy cheddar soup

This creamy cheddar soup is already a complete, satisfying dish, but how you serve it can really elevate the experience. Here are a few delicious serving ideas to take things to the next level:

Serve With Bread or Rolls

A bowl of creamy soup practically begs for something warm and carb-y on the side. Here are some great options:

• Crusty French bread or sourdough slices, toasted and buttered
• Soft dinner rolls or brioche buns
• Buttery garlic bread for a little extra flavor

You can even dip the bread right into the soup—no judgment here!

Top With Extra Garnishes

Garnishes aren’t just about looking pretty—they also add contrast and fresh flavor. Try these:

• Chopped green onions or scallions for brightness
• Fresh parsley for a pop of color
• A dash of smoked paprika or black pepper for a bit of visual flair
• A spoonful of sour cream or plain yogurt for tanginess

Make It a Soup and Salad Meal

Balance out the richness of the soup with a light, fresh salad. A few ideas:

• Arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Cucumber and tomato salad with a drizzle of olive oil
• Shredded carrot salad with lemon and herbs

Serve in Bread Bowls

If you really want to impress guests or make dinner a bit more fun, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. The soup soaks into the crusty interior and you can eat the “bowl” afterward—delicious and eco-friendly.

Pairing Suggestions for this creamy cheddar soup

Pairing your creamy cheddar beef and potato soup with the right sides and drinks can turn a comforting bowl into a restaurant-worthy meal. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, here’s how to complete the experience.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Go classic with a cheddar melt, or try something fancier like a mozzarella and pesto panini.
• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread adds a nice contrast to the savory soup.
• Cauliflower “steaks”: For a lighter side, slice cauliflower into thick slabs, season, and roast until golden and tender.

Drinks

Since this soup is creamy and hearty, a refreshing drink helps balance the meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime: Crisp and clean, great for cleansing the palate.
• Citrus-infused iced tea: The acidity of lemon or orange offsets the richness.
• Apple cider (hot or cold): Especially lovely in the colder months.
• Fresh mint lemonade: Bright and zesty to complement the flavors.

For the Kids

• Buttered noodles: Kids who are hesitant about soup might love a simple side of noodles with a little butter and cheese.
• Mini grilled cheese bites: Cut sandwiches into small squares for dunking fun.
• Soft crackers or toast “sticks”: Perfect for dipping into the soup.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best parts about this soup is how well it stores. Whether you’re making it ahead of time or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep it tasting fresh.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the creamy cheddar soup to cool slightly before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

If you find that the soup thickens a bit in the fridge (which is totally normal because of the starch from the potatoes and the cheese), you can stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating to loosen it up.

Freezing Instructions of the creamy cheddar soup

Yes, you can freeze this soup—but with a few important tips:

• Allow the soup to cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.

The cream and cheese in the soup may separate a little when frozen, but a good stir while reheating will usually bring everything back together.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the creamy cheddar soup to a pot and warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge first. You can also use the microwave—just reheat in 1–2 minute increments, stirring in between, until hot.

Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to refresh the consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this creamy cheddar soup

Even though this soup is beginner-friendly and super forgiving, there are still a few common pitfalls that can trip you up if you’re not careful. But don’t worry—once you know what to watch out for, it’s easy to avoid these and end up with the perfect pot of creamy cheddar beef and potato soup every time.

Mistake 1: Not Draining the Beef

This one’s a biggie. If you skip draining the ground beef after browning, you’ll end up with a greasy soup. That extra fat will float to the top and give your soup an oily, heavy mouthfeel. After cooking the beef, take a moment to drain the excess grease. It’s a quick step that makes a big difference in the final texture.

Mistake 2: Adding Cheese All at Once

Cheese is a magical ingredient, but it needs to be handled gently in hot soup. Dumping all of it in at once can lead to clumps or uneven melting. The key is to add the cheese slowly, one handful at a time, stirring continuously to let each addition fully melt before adding more. This helps create that perfectly creamy, silky finish.

Mistake 3: Overcooking the Potatoes

If you simmer the potatoes too long, they’ll start to break down and make the soup overly thick and mushy. You want them tender but still intact. Check them after 10 minutes of simmering, and once you can easily pierce them with a fork, you’re good to move on to the next step.

Mistake 4: Using Too Much Flour in the Slurry

The flour and milk slurry is meant to thicken the soup gently—not turn it into gravy. Stick to the recommended 2 tablespoons of flour mixed with a small amount of milk. If you accidentally go overboard, the soup may end up too thick and pasty. In that case, just add more broth or milk until the consistency smooths out again.

Mistake 5: Skipping the Taste Test

Don’t just assume the soup is seasoned perfectly—always taste it before serving. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so even if it tasted good before adding them, you may need to adjust your seasoning once the soup is done. A pinch of salt, pepper, or even an extra sprinkle of smoked paprika at the end can really bring everything to life.

Pro Tips of this creamy cheddar soup

You’ve got the basic steps down, and now it’s time for some insider secrets to take your soup from good to absolutely unforgettable. These pro tips will help you get the best results every time you make this creamy cheddar beef and potato soup.

Tip 1: Use a Mix of Cheeses

While sharp cheddar is the star, feel free to blend it with other cheeses for a more complex flavor. Monterey Jack adds creaminess, mozzarella brings a beautiful stretch, and a small handful of Parmesan deepens the savory notes. Just make sure whatever cheese you use is good for melting.

Tip 2: Brown the Beef with Spices

Want to amp up the flavor right from the start? Add a pinch of paprika, a little onion powder, or even chili flakes to the ground beef as it browns. This helps build flavor from the base and gives your soup a little extra kick.

Tip 3: Cut the Potatoes Evenly

Try to dice your potatoes into evenly sized chunks so they cook at the same rate. If some are too small, they’ll fall apart; if they’re too big, they’ll take longer to soften. A good rule of thumb is ½-inch to ¾-inch pieces.

Tip 4: Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese from the store often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest, silkiest texture, buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself. It only takes a minute or two and makes a big difference in the final dish.

Tip 5: Add a Touch of Mustard

This might sound surprising, but a tiny bit of Dijon mustard (about ½ teaspoon) stirred in with the cheese can help enhance the flavor and add subtle tang. It doesn’t taste like mustard in the final soup—it just brightens everything and makes the cheese flavor pop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When it comes to comfort food like this, there are always a few questions that come up. Here are the most common ones I get about this soup—plus some helpful answers to make sure your cooking experience is smooth from start to finish.

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are both great lean alternatives to beef and still work beautifully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they’re milder in flavor, so you may want to boost your seasonings a bit—especially the garlic, paprika, and herbs.

Is this soup gluten-free?

As written, the soup uses flour to thicken it, which does contain gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting cornstarch for the flour. Use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold milk to form a slurry, then stir it into the soup as directed.

Can I leave out the heavy cream?

Yes, you can! The heavy cream adds a lovely richness, but if you’re trying to cut calories or just don’t have any on hand, it’s perfectly fine to leave it out. Just use a full 2½ cups of milk instead, or substitute with half-and-half if you want something in between.

Can I make this creamy cheddar soup in a slow cooker?

You sure can! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything except the cheese and flour slurry to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for about 3–4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Add the slurry and cheese during the last 30 minutes, stir well, and cook until thickened and creamy.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The easiest way is to poke them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily with no resistance, they’re ready. Just don’t wait too long after they’re tender, or they’ll start to break apart into the soup.

Can I use frozen diced potatoes?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes (sometimes labeled “southern style hash browns”) work well and save you some prep time. Just make sure they’re thawed before adding them to the pot, and reduce your simmering time accordingly since they’ll cook faster.

What kind of broth works best?

You can use either chicken or beef broth for this recipe. Beef broth will give the soup a deeper, meatier flavor, while chicken broth keeps it lighter and more neutral. For a richer taste, use low-sodium beef broth and season to your taste.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Definitely. This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the texture.

Will the cheese separate when reheating?

It can, especially if you heat the soup too quickly. To avoid this, reheat the soup over medium-low heat and stir frequently. Add a bit of milk or broth as needed to smooth things out. Slow and steady wins the race here.

Can I double the creamy cheddar soup recipe?

Yes, and it’s a great idea if you’re feeding a crowd or want to stock your freezer. Just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the extra volume, and give everything a few extra minutes to cook through evenly.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you’ve got everything you need to make this creamy cheddar beef and potato soup, the only thing left to do is start cooking. Whether you’re in the mood for a weeknight comfort meal or planning something cozy for a weekend dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver both flavor and satisfaction in every spoonful.

What I love most about this soup is how reliable it is. It’s one of those dishes that turns out beautifully every time—and even when you tweak it to suit your pantry or dietary needs, it still hits all the cozy, comforting notes you’re craving. It’s also one of the few meals that my whole family gets excited about. When the weather’s cold or we’re just in need of a little food therapy, this soup never disappoints.

So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and give this soup a try. I promise it’s going to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation. And if you do make it, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turned out for you. Snap a photo, tag me on social media, or drop a comment below—I’m always excited to see your kitchen creations and hear your twists on the recipe.

Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all you need is one good pot of soup, made with love, to bring everyone to the table.

Let’s make something cozy together tonight.

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