Shepherd's Pie Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 big russet potatoes, weighing about 2 pounds.
02 - 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
03 - 3/4 cup of sour cream.
04 - A spoonful of butter (1 tablespoon).
05 - 1 pound of ground beef, 85% lean.
06 - 1 diced yellow onion.
07 - 3 minced garlic cloves.
08 - 2 tablespoons of butter.
09 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
10 - 4 cups of chicken stock.
11 - 2 cups of half and half.
12 - 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.
13 - 2 teaspoons of Italian herbs.
14 - 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard.
15 - 1/4 teaspoon of powdered sage.
16 - 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar.
17 - 1 1/2 cups of frozen mixed veggies.
18 - Salt and pepper as needed.

# Instructions:

01 - Bring the dairy items to room temp. Grate cheese straight from the block.
02 - Cook the beef until brown. Drain any fat before setting it aside.
03 - Peel and chop potatoes. Boil with some salt. Mash with sour cream and butter.
04 - Sauté onion in butter, toss in garlic next. Stir in flour and cook for a bit. Slowly add stock, then spices. Pour in half and half, followed by mashed potatoes, beef, and veggies. Take off heat and mix in cheese.

# Notes:

01 - Get block cheese for smoother results.
02 - Fresh potatoes beat leftovers for taste.
03 - Use an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
04 - Yields 12 cups total.