Easy & Delicious Cheeseburger Chowder Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp (5 g) dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crispy bacon bits (optional)
• Chopped green onions (optional)
• Dill pickles (optional)