Craving a hearty, comforting soup that combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory taste of a cheeseburger? Look no further! This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and skips the processed cheese for a rich, homemade flavor that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash, making cleanup a breeze.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Fresh ingredients and no Velveeta, so you can enjoy a more natural, creamy soup.
- Family Favorite: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
For the Croutons:
- 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnishes:
- Sliced green onion
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sesame Seed Bun Croutons
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook until the beef is crumbled and browned, then remove it from the pot and set it aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic, the remaining 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of thyme.
- Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 5: Thicken the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid clumping.
Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer
- Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth along with the uncooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Step 7: Incorporate Cream and Cheese
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 8: Final Touches
- Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
- Stir in the white balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor.
- Heat gently over medium heat for a few minutes to warm everything through.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with the crispy sesame seed bun croutons, sliced green onion, and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese.
Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Cheese Selection: Use a high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
- Customize Vegetables: Add diced potatoes, corn, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Crouton Hack: Make extra croutons—they’re great for salads or snacking!
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
Unlike traditional cheeseburger soups that rely on processed cheese, this recipe uses real cheddar cheese and heavy cream for a natural richness. The addition of white balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth that complements the savory base, while the homemade sesame seed croutons give the soup an irresistible crunch.
Conclusion:
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect meal for those seeking comfort food with a twist. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with fresh flavors—no processed cheese required. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!