1 lb. lean ground beef, browned in a skillet and drained*
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped celery**
2 tablespoons butter
4 cups peeled, diced potatoes (I used about 2 1/2 medium russet potatoes)
3 cups chicken broth
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed (or 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese)***
2 cups milk (I use 2%)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon paprika
Optional garnish: seasoned croutons; crispy, cooked, crumbled bacon; parsley or sliced green onion