In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and set the meat aside.
In the same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, parsley flakes, basil, and diced celery. Sauté them over medium heat until they soften, around five to seven minutes.
Next, pour in the chicken broth, add the diced potatoes, and return the browned ground beef to the pot. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about ten to twelve minutes.
In a small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking and stirring for three to five minutes until it becomes bubbly and light golden. This roux will help thicken your soup.
Pour the roux into the soup, stirring it in until it thickens. Bring it to a gentle boil again, then reduce the heat to low.
Stir in the cheese (Velveeta or cheddar), milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
Remove the saucepan from heat and blend in the sour cream. This final addition brings a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a lovely touch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!