Now, I toss in the diced potatoes and give everything a good stir. I pour in the beef broth, ensuring all the ingredients are well-covered. After that, I add the dried thyme, stirring to combine the flavors nicely. I bring the pot to a low simmer, letting it bubble away for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. The magic really begins to happen at this stage as the rich, savory scents mingle in the air.
Once the potatoes are soft, it’s time for the finishing touches. I reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into a luscious, cheesy embrace. The soup transforms into something creamy and irresistible that you just can’t wait to devour. As I prepare to serve, I taste it one last time and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and then it’s finally ready to enjoy!
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a lovely touch of color, and I always serve this soup steaming hot with a side of crusty bread. Each spoonful is a perfect blend of hearty beef, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese, making it a family favorite and a recipe I come back to time and again.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways, and I found that using freshly shredded cheese yields the best texture. Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent it from melting smoothly, which can affect the creaminess of the soup. Trust me, the difference is palpable!
When it comes to the potatoes, I prefer using russet potatoes for their hearty texture. However, Yukon Gold works just as well and adds a slightly buttery flavor to the soup. The key is using potatoes that hold their shape during cooking, so don’t shy away from experimenting with different types!
Lastly, I recommend letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. Not only does it cool down a bit, but the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish. Sometimes, I even make it a day ahead—my family loves how the flavors deepen overnight!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made early on was not cooking the beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This can lead to a greasy soup and make the flavors less appealing. It’s essential to cook the beef until it’s fully browned before moving on to the next steps. This ensures a solid base of flavor right from the start. (See the next page below to continue…)