Cheeseburger Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion
• 2 units celery stalks
• 2 medium carrots
• 2 units garlic cloves
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium potatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Cooking instructions

1. Cook Ground Beef — In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Vegetables — Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Liquids and Potatoes — Stir in tomato paste, then add diced potatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Make Roux and Add Milk — In a separate small pan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk to make a smooth sauce. Pour this mixture into the soup.
5. Add Cheese and Season — Gradually stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve — Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions. Serve warm.