Spicy Cheeseburger Soup

• 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

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

water, potatoes, carrots, onion, green pepper, pepper, garlic, beef bouillon granules, salt, ground beef, milk, flour, american cheese, cayenne pepper, bacon

Taken from www.cookbooks.com/Recipe-Details.aspx?id=139912 (may not work)