Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the simmering broth. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Incorporate Corn: Stir in the frozen corn and cook for another 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Creaminess Boost (Optional): If desired, stir in the milk or half-and-half for a creamier texture. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
Notes
For a thicker soup, use russet potatoes which are higher in starch. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a tangy twist, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
