One-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the familiar flavors of cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese into a hearty, satisfying soup. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a lazy weekend when you crave something delicious without the fuss. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cleanup and delivering maximum flavor. Let's dive into the deliciousness!
What Makes This Soup So Special?
This recipe transcends the ordinary by cleverly combining the best elements of two beloved dishes. The rich, savory beef broth captures the essence of a cheeseburger, while the creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni provide the comforting heartiness of mac and cheese. The addition of onions, garlic, and spices creates a well-rounded flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting. Best of all, it's a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your time for enjoying the delicious results.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, macaroni, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
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Stir in Cheese and Milk: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, extra cheddar cheese, or crispy bacon bits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Is this recipe adaptable for vegetarians?
While the original recipe uses ground beef, you can easily adapt it for vegetarians by substituting the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or 1 cup of crumbled vegetarian crumbles. Make sure to adjust seasoning to your taste.
Can I use different types of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or even small rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some pasta shapes cook faster than others.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup during the simmering stage. You could also add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions and garlic.
This one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering. Enjoy!
