One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with creamy pasta. This easy one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and leaves you with minimal cleanup. With ground beef, macaroni, cheese, and a rich broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Milk, Cheese, and Cream
- Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Macaroni: Elbow macaroni works best, but you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.
- Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Variations
- Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the soup for a bacon-flavored twist.
- Vegetable Addition: Stir in 1 cup of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I Freeze One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the pasta may become mushy when thawed. If you do want to freeze it, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Toppings: Top with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions for added flavor.
- Pickles: Serve with dill pickle slices for a classic cheeseburger touch.
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and easy meal that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, creamy soup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving comfort food, this one-pot wonder is sure to please the whole family. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of ground beef, macaroni, and cheese in every bite!
