One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese in a hearty soup. This easy, one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick, filling meal that the whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a creamy, cheesy soup that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped pickles, diced onions, ketchup

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional chopped pickles, diced onions, or a drizzle of ketchup for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a few sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick to your soup.
• Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for a different type, like mozzarella, gouda, or a cheddar blend, for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in some vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Creamy: For an extra creamy soup, add a splash of heavy cream or whole milk after stirring in the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, you can add a little more beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage as a substitute for ground beef.
2. Can I use a different pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just reheat it on the stovetop when ready to serve.
4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You could also add in beans or plant-based meat for protein.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
   If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) or cook the soup a little longer to reduce the liquid.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
   This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.
7. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4 hours, and stir in the cheese just before serving.
8. How do I know when the macaroni is done?
   The macaroni is done when it is tender but still firm to the bite. Test a few pieces to ensure it’s cooked through but not mushy.
9. Can I add other toppings?
   Yes! You can also top the soup with crispy bacon, crumbled crackers, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
    Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes in place of canned. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since fresh tomatoes may take a little longer to cook down.

Conclusion

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting, cheesy, and filling meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. The combination of ground beef, macaroni, and cheddar cheese makes this soup a family-friendly favorite that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. With endless variations and the option to add your favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen.

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