If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting, and soul-warming meal, look no further than Beef Potato Soup. This dish is the perfect combination of rich flavors, tender chunks of beef, and creamy potatoes in a thick, savory broth. It’s the kind of recipe that you can throw together for a weeknight dinner or serve up for a crowd during a chilly weekend gathering. The beauty of Beef Potato Soup lies in its simplicity – it’s comforting without being complicated. You can easily tweak it based on your preferences, yet it still manages to impress.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will give you the satisfaction of a full belly and a clean plate. Let’s dive into the specifics of making this classic soup from scratch.

Beef Potato Soup Recipe

This is a soup that brings together some classic ingredients: beef, potatoes, onions, and garlic, all simmered together in a deliciously savory broth. It’s a dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious Beef Potato Soup, you’ll need:

  • 1 Lb Of Beef Stew Meat (or Chuck Roast, Cut Into Small Cubes)

    Tender, flavorful beef is the star here. Stew meat or chuck roast are ideal because they become incredibly tender when simmered.

  • 4 Large Potatoes (peeled And Diced)

    Potatoes are essential for adding that hearty, creamy texture. Russet potatoes work best, but Yukon Gold also make for a creamier texture.

  • 1 Large Onion (diced)

    The onion adds a rich, sweet flavor that deepens as it cooks in the broth.

  • 2 Cloves Garlic (minced)

    Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic depth.

  • 4 Cups Beef Broth

    Beef broth is key to creating a rich, savory base. You can use low-sodium to control the salt levels.

  • 2 Cups Water

    To balance out the beef broth and ensure the soup isn’t too thick.

  • 1 Cup Milk Or Heavy Cream (optional)

    If you want a creamier texture, this step is a game-changer. Add this near the end of cooking for the best effect.

  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme

    Adds a subtle earthiness that complements the beef.

  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Rosemary

    Rosemary brings a piney, fragrant note that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and beef.

  • Salt And Pepper To Taste

    These simple seasonings really let the flavors of the other ingredients shine through.

  • Chopped Parsley (for Garnish)

    Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a bit of freshness at the end.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the actual cooking part. Here’s how to make this Beef Potato Soup from scratch:

  1. Sear The Beef

    • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pot.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat. Let it sear for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned.
    • This searing process caramelizes the beef and gives it a deep, rich flavor.
  2. Sauté The Aromatics

    • Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it softens and becomes translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s done when the kitchen starts smelling heavenly.
  3. Simmer The Soup

    • Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, water, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir everything to combine.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Make It Creamy (Optional)

    • If you’re using milk or cream, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. It’ll add a velvety texture and make the broth richer.
    • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Finish And Serve

    • Once the soup is ready and the potatoes have cooked through, give it a final stir. Taste for seasoning and add extra salt and pepper if needed.
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Ingredient Insights

Now, let’s dive deeper into some of the key ingredients that make this Beef Potato Soup truly shine:

  • Beef stew meat/chuck roast: These cuts of beef are perfect for soups because they have enough connective tissue and fat to break down during cooking. The result? Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. When cooked long enough, they soak up all the flavor from the broth and seasonings.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes are an unsung hero in this soup. The starch they release thickens the broth, and their neutral flavor soaks up the surrounding seasonings. Russet potatoes, which break down easily, add a great texture, while Yukon Golds create a smoother, creamier finish.
  • Beef broth: A good beef broth is essential to creating the depth of flavor needed for this soup. Opt for a rich, hearty broth. If you’re in a pinch, a bouillon cube or concentrate can work too – just be mindful of the salt content.
  • Herbs (thyme & rosemary): These herbs not only add depth to the flavor but also complement the beef and potatoes perfectly. Thyme is earthy and slightly floral, while rosemary brings a pine-like, woodsy fragrance.

Expert Tips

  • Browning the beef: Don’t skip the step of browning your beef. It’s not just for color – it’s a flavor-builder! The caramelization process adds layers of complexity to the soup.
  • Controlling the thickness: If your soup is too thick for your liking, just add a bit more broth or water. If it’s too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to thicken it up.
  • Make ahead: Beef Potato Soup is even better the next day. The flavors continue to meld together, making it the perfect dish to make in advance.
  • Add a touch of acid: A small squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar just before serving can brighten the flavors of the soup, especially if it feels a little too rich.

Recipe Variations

While the classic Beef Potato Soup is delicious on its own, here are a few variations to take this dish to the next level:

  • Add Vegetables: You can toss in some carrots, celery, or parsnips for extra texture and flavor. These vegetables complement the earthiness of the potatoes and beef beautifully.
  • Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or even a diced jalapeño to the pot during the sautéing stage.
  • Cheesy Twist: For an extra indulgent version, stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. It’ll melt into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy goodness.
  • Herb Variations: You can swap out the thyme and rosemary for other herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.
  • Swap the Cream: If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream or milk. It gives the soup a slightly different flavor profile, but it works surprisingly well with the beef.

Final Words

Beef Potato Soup is one of those dishes that’s full of nostalgia and comfort, but with a little creativity, it can become a dish that you want to make again and again. The combination of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich broth makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for all seasons but especially during the colder months. The great thing is that this soup is versatile, easy to customize, and incredibly filling.

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