Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

1/2 lb. beef ground
3/4 c. chopped onion
3/4 c. shredded carrots
3/4 c. diced celery
1 t. dried basil
1 t. parsley flakes
4 T. butter, divided
2 c. chicken broth
4 c. diced, peeled potatoes (1-3/4 lb)
1/4 c. flour
8 oz. American cheese, cubed 2 cups (Aunt Mary uses cheddar cheese)
1-1/2 c. milk
3/4 t. salt
1/4 to 1/2 t. pepper
1/4 c. sour cream

In a 3 quart saucepan, brown beef, drain set aside.  In the saucepan saute onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley in 1 T butter for 10 minutes.  Add broth, potatoes, and beef bring to a boil.  Reduce heat, cover and simmer 10-12 minutes until potatoes are tender.

In a small skillet melt remaining butter.  Add flour.  cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly. Add to soup, bring to boil.  Cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese, milk, salt and pepper.  Cook and stir until cheese melts.  Remove from heat, blend in sour cream.

Yield: 2-1/4 qt. or 8 servings.

Source: Aunt Mary James