One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

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One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Meal

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that blends all the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with the comfort of pasta. Ideal for a weeknight meal, this soup is not only easy to make but also sure to become a family favorite. Combining ground beef, vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth, topped with melty cheddar cheese, it’s a filling meal that can be made in just one pot for minimal cleanup.

This dish is the ultimate comfort food, offering the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can create a dish that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Let’s explore how to make this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

To make this mouthwatering One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of this soup, providing a savory and meaty base.
  • 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: A classic addition to enhance the overall taste with a savory note.
  • 1 medium carrot, diced: Brings a slight sweetness and a crunchy texture to the soup.
  • 1 celery stalk, diced: Adds freshness and a hint of earthiness to balance the richness of the beef.
  • 4 cups beef broth: Provides the perfect base for the soup, infusing it with rich, hearty flavor.
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Adds acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the beef and cheese.
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: The pasta that brings comfort and substance to the soup.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The key to achieving the creamy, cheesy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream: Helps create a rich and velvety base, making the soup smooth and creamy.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and gives the soup a thicker, heartier consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (optional): For those who love the classic cheeseburger flavor, mustard adds a tangy kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smokiness to elevate the flavor of the soup.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste: To balance and season the soup, bringing all the flavors together.
  • Optional garnishes: Chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or extra cheese to enhance the flavor and presentation of the soup.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s take a look at how to prepare this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in just a few easy steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This will take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the beef and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a bit of oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step will infuse the soup with wonderful aromas and depth of flavor.

3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Once the vegetables are softened, add the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot. Stir to combine. The broth will serve as the base of the soup, and the tomatoes will add a slight acidity that balances out the richness of the beef and cheese.

4. Stir in the Pasta and Simmer

Now, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring it into the broth and vegetables. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the broth.

5. Add the Cheese and Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or heavy cream. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. The milk or cream will create a smooth, velvety texture, while the cheese will give the soup a rich, comforting flavor. Stir until everything is well combined.

6. Season the Soup

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard (if using) to enhance the flavor. Add the smoked paprika, and then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, depending on your preference.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is fully prepared, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your choice of chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or extra cheese. These garnishes add both flavor and visual appeal to the soup.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Quick and Easy

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze to make. With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty, comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes. The one-pot cooking method means less mess and cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

2. Flavorful and Satisfying

With the combination of savory beef, vegetables, pasta, and melted cheese, this soup is packed with flavor. The beef broth and diced tomatoes create a rich base, while the cheddar cheese adds a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly days or when you need a satisfying meal.

3. Customizable

This soup is highly customizable. You can adjust the seasonings to match your tastes, add extra vegetables if desired, or even use a different type of cheese if cheddar isn’t your favorite. The optional mustard and smoked paprika can also add an extra layer of flavor, but feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder taste.

4. Great for Meal Prep

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance and enjoying later.

5. Kid-Friendly

The creamy texture and cheeseburger-inspired flavor of this soup make it a hit with kids. It’s a great way to get them to eat their vegetables while still giving them the comforting taste of a cheeseburger.

Conclusion

If you’re craving the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy soup, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect solution. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy families. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping it for lunch throughout the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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