Cheeseburger Soup

6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small carrot, grated
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
2 tbsp chopped seeded jalapeno pepper
3 cups water
2 tbsp plus 2 tsp beef bouillon granules
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 tsp pepper
2 lbs ground beef
2 tbsp butter
5 cups milk, divided
6 tbsp flour
1 pkg (16 oz) Velveeta, cubed
Crumbled cooked bacon, optional

In a soup pot, combine the first nine ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 min or until potatoes are tender.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cok beef in butter over med heat until no longer pink; drain. Add to soup and stir in 4 cups milk; heat through.

In a small bowl, combine flour and remaining milk until smooth; gradually stir into soup. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 min or until thickened. Reduce heat; stir in cheese until melted. Garnish with bacon; optional.

Makes about 14 cups

Number of Servings: 14

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user CLEO0512.