Creamy Steak and Potato Soup

There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of creamy soup, especially when it’s packed with hearty ingredients like tender beef and robust potatoes. Did you know that a good serving of potato soup can provide you with a healthy dose of fiber and potassium? Imagine diving into a rich, velvety soup that warms you from the inside out and brings a smile to your face. The combination of flavors and textures in this Creamy Steak and Potato Soup makes it a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.

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Why This Creamy Steak and Potato Soup Never Fails

Delivering on flavor and satisfaction, this soup is a sure winner for all occasions. Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as juicy steak mingles with fresh garlic and onions—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! The best part? With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you can whip this up even on a busy weeknight. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece that’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table.

The Essentials

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound beef tenderloin, ribeye, flank or strip steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup onion, finely diced (from 1 medium onion)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 pounds potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
• Green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

Let’s Cook

1. Add the olive oil to a large pot or Dutch Oven over medium heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then add to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it is done through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove the steak with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the extra juices in the pot.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot with the beef juices. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened.
3. Pour in the beef stock and carefully add in the potatoes. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork tender.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until combined and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often.
5. Whisk in the milk until smooth and fully blended.
6. Once the potatoes are fork tender, pour in the hot milk mixture and stir until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7. Add the steak back to the pot along with the heavy cream and cook until heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the white cheddar cheese until melted and well blended.
9. Taste and season as needed with additional salt and pepper.
10. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese and sliced green onions, if desired.

Nutrition Breakdown

In a typical serving of Creamy Steak and Potato Soup, you can expect approximately 450 calories, 28 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 25 grams of fat. Notably, it also packs around 3 grams of fiber. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this soup delivers nourishment and comfort in every bite, making it not just a meal, but an experience.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this creamy delight with warm, crusty bread or a fresh side salad to balance out the richness. A light, citrusy vinaigrette salad is perfect to cut through the creaminess of the soup. This dish shines in fall and winter, making it a great choice for cozy family dinners or intimate gatherings. Just imagine the clinking of bowls and the laughter echoing around the table while everyone savors the deliciousness.

How to Store It Right

To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can comfortably sit in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring regularly to keep the creamy texture intact.

Expert Tips

• Always let your beef brown nicely before removing it; it adds incredible flavor to the base of the soup.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, consider mashing some of the potatoes before combining them with the milk mixture.
• For an added kick, toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce just before serving.
• Cheese lovers can increase the white cheddar amount for a more indulgent experience.

Flavor Experiments

• Seasonal Twist: Add some diced butternut squash for a fall-inspired sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth.
• Gourmet Version: For a touch of elegance, add sautéed mushrooms and truffle oil just before serving.
• Playful Variation: Stir in some crispy bacon bits for that smoky flavor and extra crunch.

Learn from My Mistakes

• Mistake: Skipping the browning of the beef.
• Fix: Sear the beef to develop flavor and color before adding other ingredients.
• Mistake: Adding cold milk to the hot soup.
• Fix: Always warm the milk mixture first to avoid clumping.
• Mistake: Overcooking the potatoes.
• Fix: Keep an eye on them; they should be just fork-tender to maintain their integrity.

Creative Second-Day Ideas

• Transform leftovers into a hearty casserole by layering the soup with cheese and breadcrumbs before baking until golden.
• Use the soup as a luscious sauce over baked potatoes or grilled vegetables.
• Blend the soup and serve it as a creamy sauce over pasta, making a quick and delicious dinner option.

Quick Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef in this soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, adjusting cooking time accordingly since chicken cooks faster. A rotisserie chicken also makes for a quick shortcut.

Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the soup a day in advance. It can actually enhance the flavors. Just reheat gently before serving.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Of course! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix or cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup while maintaining its creamy texture.

In the end, this Creamy Steak and Potato Soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a way to bring people together. So, don your apron and let’s create something unforgettable!