Ingredients

  • 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 small carrot, grated
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped seeded jalapeno pepper
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cups 2% milk, divided
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 package (16 ounces) process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
  • Crumbled cooked bacon

Method

  • In a Dutch oven, bring the first 9 ingredients to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  • Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and mushrooms in butter over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add to soup. 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 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; stir in cheese until melted. Garnish with bacon.