Chopped tomatoes, onion, cooked bacon, and/or dill pickles for garnish
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium-high heat, brown ground beef, breaking up large pieces, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add celery and onion; cook, stirring, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 more minutes.
Add broth and potatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, partially cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Slowly add milk, whisking or stirring constantly, and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Whisk in tomato paste, ketchup and mustard. Remove from heat.
Slowly stir the milk mixture into the soup; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in cheese. When cheese is completely incorporated into the soup, remove from heat and stir in chives. Don’t boil the soup after the cheese has been added.
Serve topped with tomatoes, onion and/or pickles, if desired.
Video
Notes
Recipe adapted from Eating Well magazine, September 2019.
Nutrition information does not include optional toppings.
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to three days. It does not freeze well. To reheat, place soup in saucepan and reheat over medium low heat until heated through. Try not to boil the soup because it can make it look curdled. It still tastes great but isn't as creamy-looking. Don't worry if that happens -- just pile on more toppings!