One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful blend of comfort and nostalgia that embodies the ultimate family-friendly meal. This dish is a heartwarming combination of ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender macaroni, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy Sundays when you crave something hearty and satisfying. In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step recipe that makes it easy to prepare this delicious soup, ensuring you can whip it up in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only a delectable dish but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can have a hot, comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners, potluck gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The versatility of this soup allows it to adapt to your preferences, and the leftovers are just as tasty (if you have any!). Quick cooking, ease of preparation, and mouthwatering flavors make this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen while still enjoying a fantastic meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: Juicy and savory, it serves as the flavorful base of your soup.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- 4 cups beef broth: Rich and hearty, it creates the flavorful soup base.
- 1 cup milk: For a creamy texture that elevates the soup to comfort food status.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Tender pasta that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheesy goodness that melts beautifully and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A dash of umami that enhances the rich flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the soup’s flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasoning that helps balance the dish.
- Optional toppings: Diced tomatoes, pickles, extra cheese, and green onions add freshness and crunch.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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Sauté Vegetables: With the heat still at medium, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Add Broth and Macaroni: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the macaroni, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and cooked to your liking.
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Add Cheese and Milk: Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of diced tomatoes, pickles, extra cheese, or green onions.
Tips & Tricks
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Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the soup.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for varied flavors.
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Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicier kick.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
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Flavor Prepping: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; it will thicken and enhance the flavors more.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serving One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze. Pair this comforting bowl of goodness with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special family occasions, or when you simply want something warm and comforting. For added toppings, consider crushed crackers or a sprinkle of chili powder to elevate your dish even further.
Nutritional Information
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup provides a satisfying meal that is comforting and nutritious. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
While enjoying this soup, remember to balance your diet by incorporating plenty of vegetables and whole grains in your meals throughout the week.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
Variations
You can customize this recipe based on your preferences. Consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version. Try adding different spices or herbs to suit your taste, or mix in frozen vegetables for a nutritious boost.
Conclusion
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a fantastic recipe that embodies comfort, simplicity, and deliciousness. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out and share your experience – we can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
FAQs
1. Can I use pasta other than elbow macaroni?
Yes! You can substitute with any small pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used.
2. How do I make it dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for meal prep. Just remember to make sure to heat it up thoroughly before serving.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
5. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover soup can be repurposed as a filling for stuffed peppers or poured over baked potatoes. Get creative!
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- With the heat still at medium, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the macaroni, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of diced tomatoes, pickles, extra cheese, or green onions.
