Shepherd's Pie Soup (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 4 large russet potatoes (2 pounds).
02 - 3/4 teaspoon salt.
03 - 3/4 cup sour cream.
04 - 1 tablespoon butter.
05 - 1 pound ground beef (85% lean).
06 - 1 yellow onion, diced.
07 - 3 garlic cloves, minced.
08 - 2 tablespoons butter.
09 - 1/4 cup flour.
10 - 4 cups chicken broth.
11 - 2 cups half and half.
12 - 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.
13 - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning.
14 - 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder.
15 - 1/4 teaspoon ground sage.
16 - 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded.
17 - 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables.
18 - Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

01 - Let dairy reach room temp. Shred cheese from block.
02 - Brown and crumble. Drain grease. Set aside.
03 - Peel and cut potatoes. Boil in salted water. Mash with butter and sour cream.
04 - Sauté onions in butter. Add garlic. Cook flour 1 minute. Slowly add broth, seasonings. Add half and half. Blend in potatoes. Add beef and vegetables. Stir in cheese off heat.

Notes:

01 - Use block cheese for better melting.
02 - Fresh potatoes work better than leftover.
03 - Immersion blender makes it creamier.
04 - Makes 12 cups.