Spicy Cheeseburger Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 C. water
2 C. cubed peeled potatoes
2 small carrots, grated
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 C. chopped green pepper
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp. beef bouillon granules
1/2 tsp. salt
1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained
2 1/2 C. milk, divided
3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
8 oz. process American cheese, cubed
1/4 to 1 tsp. cayenne pepper, optional
1/2 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled

Preparation

In a large saucepan, combine the first nine ingredients; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15--20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in beef and 2 C. of milk; heat through.
Combine flour and remaining milk until smooth; gradually stir into soup.
Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly.
Reduce heat; stir in cheese until melted.
Add cayenne pepper to taste if desired.
Top with bacon just before serving.