One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
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, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Macaroni
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir to combine.
- Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Cream
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
- Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Success
- No Lumps: When adding the flour, make sure to stir constantly to avoid any lumps.
- Cheese Choice: Use a good-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or peas for additional flavor and color.
Variations
- Add Bacon: For extra flavor, crumble crispy bacon into the soup right before serving.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamier: If you prefer a creamier soup, add a bit more heavy cream or use whole milk instead of beef broth for a richer base.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Comforting and Hearty: A rich, cheesy soup that combines the best of a cheeseburger and macaroni in one bowl.
- Quick and Easy: Made in just one pot, it’s perfect for a family meal on a busy night.
- No Velveeta Needed: This homemade version skips the processed cheese, using real sharp cheddar for a more authentic taste.
Enjoy your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! 🧀🍔🍲
