Steak And Potato Soup

Steak and potato soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This creamy, flavorful soup combines tender chunks of beef and hearty potatoes, creating a filling meal that warms the soul. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish stands out for its rich taste and simplicity. Best of all, it requires minimal prep time and can be made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Hearty: The combination of beef and potatoes creates a fulfilling meal that satisfies hunger.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream and cheddar cheese gives the soup a rich, velvety texture that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or serve it at gatherings for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best steak and potato soup, having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient cutting of vegetables and meat, making prep work quicker.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee accurate ingredient amounts, which is key to achieving the best flavor.

Ingredients

Steak and potato soup is a creamy combination of chunks of beef and potatoes. It’s an easy one-pot meal that doesn’t need blending.

Ingredients:
– 1.5 pound beef stew meat
– 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
– 2 pound russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 3 cup chicken stock
– 1 cup cheddar cheese (freshly grated/shredded)
– 3/4 cup heavy cream

How to Make Steak And Potato Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prepare all your ingredients. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and peel and dice the potatoes. Having everything ready will make the cooking process faster.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add a little oil. Once hot, place in chunks of beef stew meat to sear.
1. Do not overcrowd; sear one or two sides until browned.
2. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add diced onions to the same pot with a little more oil if needed.
1. Sauté until softened and lightly browned.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in the flour over the onion-garlic mixture.
1. Stir well for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually pour in chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Beef Back In

Return the seared beef along with diced potatoes into the pot.
1. Don’t worry about submerging everything; it will cook down as it simmers.
2. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, covering the pot.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Cook covered for about an hour until beef is tender—check occasionally.
1. If using a Dutch oven, you can also transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F for 1-1.5 hours.

Step 7: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once tender, remove from heat.
1. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
2. Taste for seasoning with salt and pepper before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious steak and potato soup!

How to Serve Steak And Potato Soup

Serving steak and potato soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely sliced chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve slices of warm sourdough bread for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can enhance the flavors and provide a satisfying crunch.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Add Cheese Toppings

• Additional Cheddar Cheese: Top each bowl with more grated cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan can add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the soup.

How to Perfect Steak And Potato Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your steak and potato soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Beef: Select high-quality beef stew meat for richer flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps build deeper flavors and ensures tender meat.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving to create a creamier texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper at different cooking stages for balanced seasoning.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add carrots or celery for additional nutrition and flavor depth within the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Steak And Potato Soup

Complement your steak and potato soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make for perfect dipping companions.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color, nutrition, and flavor alongside your soup.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins bring a great contrast in taste and texture to savory dishes.
4. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives for an additional comforting option.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness that balances out the richness of the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or cheese offer an interesting twist on traditional sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Steak and Potato Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can enhance your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always sear the meat to develop a rich taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much beef at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Work in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring the Onion and Garlic: Cooking these ingredients only briefly can leave their flavors underdeveloped. Cook them until they are soft and slightly caramelized for maximum flavor.
• Not Following Cooking Times: Rushing the simmering process may result in tough beef. Allow enough time for the beef to become tender for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Steak And Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Steak And Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Steak And Potato Soup last?

Steak And Potato Soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Steak And Potato Soup?

Yes! You can freeze it for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

What are some variations of Steak And Potato Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or peas, or use different cheeses for added flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Consider using leaner cuts of beef or reducing cream and cheese amounts for a lighter version.

Can I make Steak And Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for about 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

Steak and Potato Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. This creamy dish makes for an easy one-pot meal that you can customize by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

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