Cheeseburger Soup

I get lots of recipe requests for this one...

1/2 lb ground beef
1 T. olive oil
3/4 c. chopped onion
3/4 c. sliced celery
3/4 c. chopped carrots
1 T. parsley flakes
3 c. chicken broth
4 c. diced potatoes
Pepper to taste
3 T. butter
1 1/2 c. milk
1/4 c. flour
2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 c. sour cream

Brown beef, drain and set aside. In same pan, saute onion, celery, carrots, and parsley in 1 T. olive oil. Cook until veggies are tender (about 10 minutes). Add broth, potatoes, pepper, and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce. Cook until potatoes are tender.

Meanwhile in a small saucepan, place 3 T. butter and flour. Blend. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Heat until thick. Add to large pot once the potatoes are done.

Put cheese in soup and once cheese is melted, remove from heat. Blend in sour cream. Enjoy!

***I often make a double batch and freeze half for a later day. Just defrost and warm on the stove or in a crockpot.

Vegetarian Variation: Omit ground beef. Add broccoli. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.