This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the warmth of a creamy soup. With ground beef, tender macaroni, savory seasonings, and melted cheddar cheese, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family meal. Best of all, it’s cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried basil, and oregano, allowing the spices to infuse the meat mixture.
- Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy texture.
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
- Cheese Options: Try using other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
10 FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version of this soup.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! You can use any small pasta, such as penne or shells, instead of elbow macaroni.
- Is this soup gluten-free? No, the macaroni used in the recipe contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in freezer-safe containers.
- How can I make this soup creamier? You can add more milk or even a little heavy cream to make it extra creamy.
- Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic? Yes, fresh garlic can be used. One clove of fresh garlic is roughly equivalent to one teaspoon of minced garlic.
- Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and milk substitutes such as almond milk or coconut milk.
- How can I make the soup more filling? Add extra vegetables, such as potatoes or corn, to make it heartier.
- Is this recipe spicy? No, the recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a simple, delicious, and versatile recipe that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a perfect weeknight meal. Whether you stick to the original ingredients or experiment with variations, you’ll be able to enjoy a rich, comforting bowl of soup in just 35 minutes.