βA Hearty and Creamy Comfort Dish Perfect for the Whole Family!β
This Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate one-pot meal, combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender macaroni in a rich, cheesy broth. Itβs easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) (if beef is lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated or finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
- Crumbled bacon
- Additional shredded cheese
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2: SautΓ© the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, and celery. SautΓ© for 5β7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and uncooked macaroni. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10β12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1β2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Stir the cheese sauce into the soup, mixing well to create a rich, creamy base.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with parsley, crumbled bacon, or extra cheese.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: Combines the best of cheeseburgers and macaroni in a hearty soup.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
- Kid-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with little ones and adults alike.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent smooth melting.
- Make It Your Own: Add pickles, mustard, or a dash of hot sauce for authentic cheeseburger flavors.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a fun, delicious twist on classic comfort food thatβs sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a hearty meal in a hurry! ππ§π²β¨ Enjoy!