Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up, until browned and cooked to 160°F.
- Transfer the beef to a plate and pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of drippings.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook over medium heat for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in the beef broth until smooth.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, potatoes, salt, pepper, and browned beef.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat for 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir in the milk and warm gently for 2–3 minutes without boiling.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheddar a handful at a time until melted.
- Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the smoothest finish, shred the cheddar yourself and stir it in a handful at a time off the heat. Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days; freezing is not recommended because the dairy may separate. For a gluten-free option, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
