One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in a single pot.

• Comforting Flavors: Combines the classic taste of a cheeseburger with creamy macaroni.

• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Broth and Macaroni: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

3. Add Cheese and Milk: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

4. Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based meat or black beans.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.

• Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced carrots or celery for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to reach desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option.

2. Is it necessary to use beef broth?

Beef broth enhances the flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a smoother texture.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the soup for added heat.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other short pasta shapes like shells or penne can be used instead of elbow macaroni.

7. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Stir the cheese in slowly over low heat to ensure it melts evenly without clumping.

8. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

9. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

10. Can I freeze this soup?

While the soup can be frozen, the texture may change upon reheating due to the dairy content.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful blend of classic cheeseburger flavors and creamy macaroni, all in a convenient, easy-to-make soup. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

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