Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

1/2 to 1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup shredded carrots
3/4 cup diced celery
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
4 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cups chicken broth
4 cups diced peeled potatoes (1-3/4 pounds)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 -3 cups (8 - 12 ounces) process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
1-1/2 cups milk
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup sour cream

In a 3-qt. saucepan, brown beef; drain and set aside.
In the same saucepan, saute the onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley in 1 tablespoon butter until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the broth, potatoes and beef; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining butter.
Add flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly. Add to soup; bring to a boil.
Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheese, milk, salt and pepper; cook and stir until cheese melts.
Remove from the heat; blend in sour cream. Yield: 8 servings (2-1/4 quarts).